Bromley is a main town centre in southeast London but neighbouring Chislehurst has a village-like atmosphere. However, the busy centre of London isn’t far away, so people living here can enjoy the best of both worlds.
Chislehurst is just 12 miles from central London and Bromley is 11 miles away. Train services from Chislehurst reach London Charing Cross in just half an hour, and London Bridge in 24 minutes. If you’re travelling from Bromley, fast services take just 18 minutes and go to London Victoria; both stations are in Zone 5. The M25 and M20 are easily accessible by car, so provide a perfect base for commuters.
The area is highly desirable for families and those looking to settle in an idyllic location. There are a variety of excellent state and private schools, at both primary and secondary level, with the additional options of single-gender schools too.
Bromley and Chislehurst both have bustling High Streets with plenty of household brands and independent stores to shop in. Chislehurt’s Wrattens is an independent micro department store selling gifts, clothing, accessories and food, and it also has its own café serving homecooked dishes. There are independent fashion boutiques (like Fortuny London) and stationery shops, like Paper Lane. Despite their proximity to central London, both towns have a fantastic range of shops.
The area has several supermarkets to choose from, including Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, M&S, Lidl and Tesco to name but a few.
Residents are spoilt for choice with locally-owned brunch options, like Annabelle's, or Fitology Kitchen in quaint Victorian Chislehurst High Street. There’s also a variety of cuisines on offer when eating out, from popular chains such as Zizzi's (Chislehurst) and Wagamama (Bromley), to independently owned restaurants like Due Amici in Royal Parade and Ginger & Spice.
If you’re after some great pub food, The Bickley, The Bull's Head, and The Tigers Head are all traditional locals providing delicious meals and a good range of beers. Those who enjoy a more formal drinking and dining scene will enjoy the recently opened Bank House, which is owned by former CEO of the Gordon Ramsey Group, Stuart Gillies.
Healthcare is well provided for in the area, with many medical practices, dentists and pharmacies.
Both towns enjoy all the fantastic cultural attractions of London, whilst also having the tranquillity of a leafy Kent suburb. There are many scenic woodlands and green spaces and it’s easy to keep fit here too. The area has lots of sport and leisure activities including a Nuffield Health sport & leisure centre, golf clubs, tennis clubs and more.
Scadbury Park is a local nature reserve with over 300 acres of woodland and grassland, and it also has a working farm. The Lily of the Valley flower can be seen here, which is a rare find in London.
Chislehurst Caves are a great local attraction. They’re a large labyrinth of man-made underground tunnels, which can be explored by visitors today. The caves have a long history and have had many uses across the years. In the 60s and 70s, they became a famous music venue, with performances from the likes of David Bowie, Status Quo, Jimi Hendrix, the Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd.
Chislehurst has a great sense of community. The Chislehurst Society was founded in 1934 and has over 4,000 members who work to serve and protect the local community, whilst helping to preserve the village's gorgeous woodland and greenery.