Today is the day we’ve all been waiting for. The Great British Bake Off final is tonight, and we wouldn’t miss it for the world. But did you know that finalist Jane Beedle is from London too? Living and baking in leafy Beckenham, we take a look at why Jane has made Beckenham her home.
History of Beckenham
"Britain's oldest lychgate is in Beckenham"
Situated between Crystal Palace and Bromley, Beckenham is part of Greater London. But with its parkland, nearby golf courses and High Street – with everything from a cinema, to a hospital, to large supermarkets, where Jane can pick up everything she needs for her baking – Beckenham has the feel and facilities of a town.
Before the introduction of the railway in the late-19th century, Beckenham was a village in Kent. But once the trains arrived connecting it with central London, the population started to grow at a rapid pace and it became part of London.
Did you know, Beckenham has the oldest lychgate in the country? And the rather unusual Chinese Garage – a petrol station that was ironically built in the style of a Japanese Pagoda – that has become a landmark in its own right.
Beckenham’s transport links
Although South East London lacks Underground links, it is definitely well serviced by National Rail links. So Jane can easily get into central London for all her press calls once the show is over...
From Beckenham Junction, Southern and Southeastern trains run to London Bridge and London Victoria respectively, while Tramlink connects Beckenham to Croydon and then on to Wimbledon.
Things to do in Beckenham
Although perhaps not as good as Jane’s (we’re only speculating!), the cakes and light lunches are a great reason to visit Deli Nene on Beckenham’s High Street, where they have a children’s play area too.
And for a sophisticated night time setting, Coppers serves British food within a converted police station, where the sleek renovated contemporary interior is pretty impressive.
Kelsey Park is perfect for a day out with the kids. There’s a café and a playground, as well as a pond where you can feed the ducks.
Properties in Beckenham
It comes as no surprise that Beckenham attracts families looking for a more peaceful suburban lifestyle and larger properties that befit the residential feel of South East London.
There are also a number of one and two bedroom flats for sale in Beckenham, where property prices are attracting first-time buyers looking for more space for their money, when compared to areas closer to central London.
Discover more...
If you're thinking of selling or letting your property in Beckenham, then click here to arrange a valuation, or take a look at our Beckenham market trends section to find out what's happening in the local property market.
Or, if you're just curious about what else Beckenham has to offer, then take a look at the Beckenham Local Life section.
And of course, we're rooting for you Jane!
