Bermondsey is located in South East London, in the Borough of Southwark. This neighbourhood sits on the northern side of Old Kent Road with Southwark Park to the east and the River Thames to the north. It is well connected with the Jubilee line running from Bermondsey station meaning one can get to Westminster, the heart of British politics, in less than 10 minutes. Bermondsey has the unique privilege of boasting Victorian architecture next to some of London’s most modern social housing developments. This lends a distinctive community spirit, best illustrated by the residents of the Kirby council estate who have been described as the most patriotic council estate for their diligent display of support of England during the 2018 World Cup.

Bermondsey has evidence of both Roman and Saxon occupation, making it one of the oldest parts of Southwark. In more recent history, from the 20th century Bermondsey was known as an industrial area of South East London. The world-renewed biscuit company Peak Freen, founded in 1857, had a biscuit factory in Bermondsey that employed generations of families and infused its streets with the delightful aroma of its factory biscuits. Unfortunately they closed down in 1989, and it was a large blow for the community. In more recent history, Harris Academy Bermondsey founded in 2006, has been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted for the second time in a row.

Bermondsey Abbey, founded in the 8th century, was awarded a Blue Plaque in 2010 by a Public Vote, making it the oldest recipient of the award. Former British Unified World Heavyweight Champion, David Haye also known as the ‘Hayemaker’ was born in Bermondsey.

Although Bermondsey Underground station has the Jubilee line, much of Bermondsey has poor transport links with few bus routes and a lot of walking needed to get around. Violent crime and anti-social behaviour make up the majority of crimes committed in Bermondsey in July 2018.

London’s largest landowner, Hugh Grosvenor, is regenerating the site of former biscuit maker Peek Freans. The 7th Duke of Westminister’s company is planning to invest £500 million to transform this former industrial neighbourhood. Plans approved in 2020 include 1,548 new homes, a school, new public open space, and 150,000 sq ft of employment space. This is set to join a number of similar residential developments that Bermondsey has seen in recent years, converting industrial land into trendy apartments.