From historic houses to ancient woodland – we asked south east Londoners to share their “hidden gem” hangout spots in south east London.
When it comes to finding “hidden gems” in London, it can often feel like finding a needle in a haystack in this busy city.
But despite being the busiest city in the UK, London still offers up some hidden gems for enjoying the scenery.
Hall Place, Bexley
Located in Bexley, Hall Place is one of south east London’s hidden historical treasures – a Tudor mansion surrounded by 65 acres of gardens.
Bordered by the River Cray, the gardens feature a butterfly house, miniature railway and bird centre, making it a popular day out for families, whilst its formal gardens, topiary trees and woodland areas make it a prime spot for picnicking and walking in the warmer months.
The estate dates back to the 16th century, built for Sir John Champneys, and features many interesting features including its checkerboard exterior.
Today, it serves as both a museum and event space, with exhibitions and seasonal activities.
Nearby, you’ll find Bexley Village with its quaint cafes and local shops, as well as Danson Park and the River Thames not too far away, offering additional recreational opportunities.
Blackheath Common, Lewisham
Bordering Greenwich and Lewisham, Blackheath Common has served as a key space in the Lewisham area for events, gatherings and festivals like the popular Kisstory Festival and Blackheath Fireworks.
Bordered by period houses, Blackheath Village and Greenwich Park, this greenspace is a popular spot for picnicking, dog walking and even kite flying on windy days.
The area is also within close reach of many of Blackheath’s historic pubs like The Crown and The Prince of Wales, and with the village on its doorstep it makes for a convenient place to relax in the summer months.
Oxleas Meadow, Shooters Hill
Making up part of Oxleas Woodlands – one of London’s few ancient woodlands dating back 8,000 years – the meadow serves as a peaceful place for walking and picnicking.
During the spring the meadow is a hotspot to see bluebells, and bird watchers can expect to find a plethora of wildlife there.
Nearby, Severndroog Castle — a gothic-style tower — offers a viewpoint even higher up the hill, with sweeping views reaching as far as the Surrey Hills on a clear day.
There’s also a café near the meadow and easy access to paths leading to Castle Wood and Jack Wood, making it a popular spot for walkers.
