This sliver of Catford, nestled between the Lewisham neighbourhoods of Ladywell and Bellingham, is often overlooked due to its proximity to multiple large chain stores and busy thoroughfares. Residents who live in the area know that most Londoners are missing out though. Home to multiple leafy side streets, lined with post war family homes, portions of the neighbourhood have a quiet suburban feel. Families have been especially attracted to the area for its plethora of recreation space. Visiting on a typical weekend day, you’ll find plenty of people enjoying the abundance of space in both Mountsfield Park and Foster Memorial Park. While the area might not have a trendy food scene like some of its neighbours, the high street-Bromley Road-is filled with affordable and delicious options. From Turkish food at Turkuaz to Indian food at Rukhsana Tandoori, there’s something for everyone. With all this as well as the neighbourhood’s affordable housing prices, it’s no wonder that residents are so attached to their Catford community.

Local favourite, Mountsfield Park, opened to the public in 1905. However, its history dates back earlier than this. It originally served as the home to Henry Stainton. Historians believe that he built the house as a wedding gift for his eldest son. His son, a renowned entomologist, and his wife did eventually move into the house. Once the land had been purchased by the city though, additional sales were made. By 1922, through multiple acquisitions, the park had grown to 28 acres. Today, the park has multiple newer facilities - such as an athletic playing field

Well known Antarctic explorer, William Colbeck, was one of the neighbourhood’s most famous residents. Among his many voyages includes one in which he reached the most southern point documented by any explorer, 78°50.

The neighbourhood can feel a bit removed at times, especially since it lacks an Underground station. However, there are still many rail stations nearby and bus lines as well. This detachment from central London is actually something that many locals love. The area’s quiet suburban feel and low crime rates are welcome side effects.

This area has slowly been receiving more attention from housing developers. Looking forward, the Crickett Corner development between 16 and 22 Brownhill Road is currently under construction, taking advantage of the area’s industrial past to provide a selection of warehouse style apartments. Alternatively, the Bellingham Mews development will provide slightly larger residential properties with their own private gardens along Bellingham Road. Luckily these developments have not inflated property prices too much, with the postcode remaining relatively un-gentrified. Proposed schemes such as Melfield Gardens seek to maintain this character by seeking to provide 32 new social homes by the end of 2023.