Chartered in 1158, Bromley is a lively market town south-east of London. It flourished in the mid-19th century following the arrival of the railway, which transformed Bromley from a rural village into an urban town. Today, It features a bustling retail and commercial centre flanked by a family-friendly park.
Things to do in Bromley
For a retail fix, head to the pedestrianised High Street, which is lined with stores selling everything from fashion to video games and home goods. At The Glades, you’ll find Marks & Spencer, Waterstones and H&M, as well as a strip of small boutique stores known as Regent Arcade. Once you’ve built up an appetite, you can relax at Caffe Nero or feast on sushi at Kororo.
Sprawling west is Bromley Park, a popular green space centred around a tranquil lake. Kids can let loose in the skatepark or at the children’s playground within the Church House Gardens. On the northern edge of Bromley Park is St Peter & St Paul Parish Church, which houses stained glass windows by the Arts and Crafts master, M. E. Aldrich Rope.
Golfers can enjoy a round at the Shortlands Golf Club, which has been attracting players since the late 19th century. Further north is the Sundridge Park Golf Club, where you’ll find two 18-hole courses set amidst the woodlands of a Grade I-listed mansion. In addition to its well-stocked pro shop, the club features a state-of-the-art Performance Centre.
Getting around Bromley
Bromley is around 35 minutes’ drive from the centre of London and one hour from Heathrow Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular trains connect to the Bromley South railway station while buses travel through the town. The centre of Bromley is small enough to explore on foot.