Brockley Society Blog

Current Volunteering roles

Brockley Society welcomes new volunteers at any time, but as a priority we currently need to begin reducing the workload for Clare, our current Chair. We have identified two specific roles that would make a great contribution to beginning this process. Secretary for Brockley Society We need a new to volunteer to take on this role and become a trustee of Brockley Society!For several years we have had no secretary to do deal with Brockley Society’s admin issues and this has suffered by falling inadequately on to the Chair. We run a variety of projects, and as a result of this shortage of administrative support, even active members of Brockley Society are not necessarily aware of them all. Current trustees each lead at least one project and do not have capacity to take on this role. Are you interested in supporting the success of Brockley Society? Is one of your […]

Secretary needed for Brockley Society

(17th December 2022).  Brockley Society is looking to strengthen its Management Committee with a new Secretary. Are you interested in supporting the success of Brockley Society? Is one of your own skills helping organise people and processes? Do you get satisfaction from ensuring that ideas become reality? Then you could be just who we are looking for! The role of Secretary involves a time commitment of approximately 4 – 8 hours per month. Preparation for Committee meetings and the AGM may require a bit more time. Please see here for a full description of the role, and drop us an email at chair[AT]brockleysociety.org.uk if you would like to find out more. 

Pantomime visit: 5pm, Sunday 28 November at Greenwich Theatre

Fabulous festive fun for the whole family!! Tickets now available in our online shop. Every festive season for the past 10 years, Brockley Society has booked a block of 100+ tickets for the Christams Pantomine at Greenwich Theatre. We sell these discounted tickets on a first-come-first-served basis until they run out, so be sure to get your order in quick! This year, we will be attending the performance at 5pm on Sunday 28 November. Tickets are now available in our shop. Payment is via PayPal (you do not need a PayPal account: just enter your credit/debit card details when prompted). £2 per order will be added for postage. “The Queen of Hearts will see the fantastic return of writer, director and our extraordinary Dame Andrew Pollard, our favourite villain Anthony Spargo, musical director (Uncle) Steve Markwick and brilliant designer Cleo Pettitt. Meet the Knave of Hearts, a bit of a […]

‘Made in Lewisham (or very near)’: a talk by David Perrett

On Tuesday April 20 2021, for our regular Open Meeeting we were very fortunate to be able to host ‘Made in Lewisham (or very near)’ – a talk by the esteemed industrial archaeologist and local resident Prof David Perrett. Owing to its proximity to Deptford and the River Thames, throughout the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries Lewisham had a thriving industrial base. Sadly now almost entirely gone, this included heavy industrial manufacturers of warships, ship propellers and railway locomotives; lighter industrial manufacturers of instruments and cameras, and the wide range of food- and drink-related businesses that formed a vital part of a rapidly growing suburb of London. Vestiges of this heritage remain in the form of street names and a handful of original buildings. David has kindly allowed us to host a PDF (56 pages) of his presentation. Although it lacks much of the detail of his discussion, it does include […]

MidWinter Warmer 2021 cancelled / postponed

As a consequence of Covid-19 and the present regulations about social gatherings, with great reluctance we have had to cancel the Midwinter Warmer event this year. We very much hope to run a replacement social event for Brockley’s senior citizens later in the year. We will publicise this widely nearer the time, but until then send our best wishes to all during these difficult times.

Breakspears Mews Community Garden Open Day – a blooming success!

Despite the need to social distance, this year’s Breakspears Mews Community Garden Open Day on Saturday 4th July was a great success, with over 80 people attending. As always, regular attendees at the garden were proud to show off the fruits of their labours, and visitors were delighted to discover this oasis of tranquility, community and wholesomeness. Sadly, due to Covid-19, regular gardening sessions had to be suspended for several months. However, we are delighted to be able to report that the Garden will now be open for the following sessions – always weather-permitting!. If it rains the event will be cancelled. Refreshments and cakes provided. Events are free, but donations welcome. We hope to see you there! Tuesday 04/08/2020 @11am – noon: coffee morning Thursday 06/08/2020  Poetry evening @ 6pm: garden open with poetry starting @7pm Saturday 22/08/2020 @11am – noon: coffee morning Saturday 12/09/2020   Brockley Society – Front Garden Sale […]

Brockley, Ladywell & St Johns Front Garden Sale 2020

11am – 4pm, Saturday 12th & Sunday 13th September In the absence of the Fayre this summer (cancelled due to Covid), we anticipate that the perennially popular Front Garden Sale will be bigger and better than ever. Open and fee to all, why not join in and help maintain Brockley’s status as south east London’s undisputed Champion of Bric-a-Brac! Last year, dozens of households in Brockley and Ladywell took part, and many more grabbed a bargain. With the support of the Ladywell Society, the Garden Sale expanded into new territories. This we are also joined by the St John’s Society, so we anticipate more stalls than ever. So why not delve into your cupboards and lofts, sheds and garages, to declutter and be part of a great community event? It’s completely free to take part, and you can participate on either or both days. Although still nearly 2 months away, we are […]

Swifts in Brockley

National Swift Day was on 7 June this year, and you may have seen or heard these marvellous birds swooping and weaving overhead in recent weeks. Swifts (Latin name Apus apus) have been visiting Brockley from their winter homes in Africa for hundreds of years. However, when houses are renovated, the Swifts often find the small holes in roof fascia boards, to which they faithfully return each year, have disappeared. We have lost over half of our Swifts in just the past 20 years, in part due to this loss of nesting sites. If you are doing home renovations, please consider incorporating a home for the Swifts in your plans! They leave no mess as they eat their own waste, and for just a few pounds you can buy a a Swift Box or Swift Brick (details below) . If you already have such a swift ‘home’ at your property, you […]

Congratulations to Street Trees for Living

  PO Box 63473 London SE4 9AZ  Street Trees for Living (STfL) began as a small sub-project of Brockley Society in 2011. It has developed as an outstanding initiative since then, working in partnership with Lewisham Council’s Green Scene. By Easter this year new street trees had been planted in most of Lewisham’s wards, a grand total of 800 trees since 2012. Local residents and businesses have provided most of the funding, along with commitments to water the trees for their first years. Local assemblies have also made generous grants. Brockley Society, as the parent charity, is proud to have incubated and invested in such a worthwhile project. We have spent the last year assisting with the legal, financial and practical arrangements for what started simply as a tree project to become an independent charity. Following the joint signing of a handover agreement on 14 May 2020, we are now able to […]

Brockley & Ladywell Front Garden Sale 2019

11am – 4pm, Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th September *** Lists for both Saturday and Sunday now ready! ***  Download here as a PDF list View on GoogleMaps here (separate layers for Saturday and Sunday) Use these TinyURL and QR shortcuts to the GoogleMaps on your phone: https://tinyurl.com/yypzt94f   *** Happy Hunting! *** ============================================================ This will be the 7th year of this hugely popular event! Why not end the summer with a big clear-out, and help maintain Brockley’s status as South East London’s undisputed champion of Bric-a-Brac! Last year, dozens of people in Brockley and Ladywell took part, and many more grabbed a bargain. Delve into your cupboards and lofts, sheds and garages… It’s completely free to take part, and you can participate on either or both days. Applications are already coming in thick and fast; why not join them? To attract visitors, try to get a small ‘cluster’ together with your neighbours, or near […]

Celebrate Brockley’s Mews and Greenways: Free Event

Date: Saturday 11th May, 11.30 – 3.00pm Location: Myatt Garden School, Rokeby Road SE4 1TY  Join us at a free event to celebrate Brockley’s unique mews and greenways, and promote open spaces networks. The event will be followed by a guided walk through local byways. See flyer below for the schedule of activities for the day. Free tickets can be booked on our TicketSource page:    

"London and Croydon Railway, From New Cross, Deptford". Engraving looking NW towards central London

Open Meeting: “Travel to Brockley: The Croydon Canal and the London and Croydon railway”

An illustrated talk by Malcolm Bacchus, local historian and chair of the Telegraph Hill Society. Location: Brockley Social Club, 240 Brockley Rd, Brockley, London SE4 2SU (next to the Esso garage at Foxberry Rd) Time: 7.30pm, Wednesday 17th April 2019 Find out more about Brockley’s transport from days gone by … Opened in 1809, the Croydon Canal ran for 9 miles from Croydon to the Grand Surrey Canal at New Cross, and passed through Brockley (hence the ‘Brockley Barge’ pub name’!) at a long flight of locks. The London and Croydon Railway opened in 1839, and trains through Brockley still follow the route of this Victorian engineering marvel. Rescheduled from last summer, Malcolm will finally share his extensive knowledge of these transport megaprojects of their day….   Free and open to all!  

Midwinter Warmer 2019

Saturday February 16 1pm – 5pm at Brockley Social Club Join us for our popular annual Midwinter Warmer: an afternoon for Brockley’s senior citizens featuring singing and dancing performances, afternoon tea (cake & sandwiches), and of course a good old natter! And last but not least our legendary Raffle, in which nobody goes home empty-handed! Although the event is particularly suited to elderly folk, everyone is welcome. Even if you can’t come for the whole afternoon, feel free to just come and say hello… Performances will include: The young ladies of Carragher Academy of Irish Dance, led by Monica Larking (see photo below). Storytelling and singing performed by Professor Jones and Lisa-Marie The “Seniors” choir led by Christine Bond We are always looking for volunteers to help out with running the event: both beforehand (publicity and collecting raffle prizes) and on the day (general helping out and offering lifts). It’s a great […]

Heritage Hack. Goldsmiths, ‘Being Human’ Festival, 10am Sat 17th – 5pm Sun 18th November

Brockley Society is one of four local Heritage Partners who have been invited to partner with Goldsmiths’ Hacksmiths in Heritage Hack – a ‘Hackathon’ as part of the ‘Being Human’ Humanities festival. The event will take place this weekend, between 10am Saturday 17th and 5pm Sunday 18th November 2018, at Goldsmiths in New Cross. “Join Hacksmiths for a two-day invention marathon to create novel, impactful tech solutions that breathe new life into Lewisham’s past. People of all abilities are invited to collaborate and build awesome projects addressing the tech and digital challenges of four London heritage organisations. Framed by the research of Goldsmiths historian Dr John Price and anthropologist Dr Charlotte Joy, help shape how the public engage with the Horniman Museum’s new World Gallery, the Lewisham Local History Society Museum Collection, the work of the Brockley Society, and a public artwork commemorating the 1977 Battle of Lewisham.” ‘Hacksmiths’ is […]

AGM and Book Reading. Wednesday 14th November, 7.30pm. St Peter’s Church, Wickham Road, SE4 1LT

Join us for one of regular open meetings, which will conclude with our AGM business. However, for the first hour, we are delighted to be hosting Beverly Ramsay who will read extracts from her memoir ‘A Jamaican Childhood’, her lively book about a childhood in Jamaica and migration to England… Brockley Society’s Annual General Meeting will follow at 8.45pm. There will be brief reports from some of our groups, followed by the election of officers (Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary and Treasurer) and committee members. Email chair@brockleysociety. org.uk if you wish to stand for a position or help on a sub-committee: Planning (see p6); Hilly Fields Fayre; Brockley Voices reminiscence project, MidWinter Warmer; Communications & Admin; Street Trees for Living; Breakspears Mews Community Garden or new projects. ‘A Jamaican Childhood’ by Beverly Ramsay Beverly and many others were part of the ‘Windrush generation’ who were invited to the UK between 1948 and […]

Pantomine Outing: Robinson Crusoe, Greenwich Theatre, Sunday 6th January

Yes, a January Panto this time, to end the school holidays with a bang! Limited performance dates and very early block bookings meant we couldn’t get enough tickets to satisfy Brockley’s demands before Christmas. Brockley Society books a block of 150 tickets, which reduces adult prices to £18 while children pay £14, plus £2 postage. They are sold on a first-come-first-served basis until they run out. Pay with PayPal or credit card. Your tickets will be posted to you. Please book before 15 December to be sure you receive your tickets in time. Click here to buy tickets in our shop! “Set sail to Greenwich Theatre this Christmas for our swashbuckling panto – Robinson Crusoe!  Starring panto favourite Andrew Pollard, this year’s offering is a action-packed adventure awash with pirates, romance, exotic creatures and songs-a-plenty! Hit the high seas with Robinson as he battles the wicked Pirate Queen to find the […]

Survey about Ashby Mews

There was anguish during the summer amongst some local residents, over recently-installed gates and tarmac at the northern end of Ashby Mews. Brockley Society convened a public meeting in July to discuss the issues involved; see report of the meeting and photos of the Mews on a separate page here. In order to further gauge local opinion on this matter, we have now created a survey about Ashby Mews and the other mews in Brockley Conservation Area. Please follow the link below to be taken to the survey webpage. Your personal details are not required to complete the survey. Your responses will help us determine how to proceed, and we very much appreciate you taking the time to submit your views on this matter. Click here to be taken to the survey webpage.

Brockley & Ladywell Front Garden Sale 2018

11am – 4pm, Saturday 8th & Sunday 9th September This is the 6th year of this hugely popular event… *  THE LIST OF 70+ ADDRESSES IS NOW AVAILABLE  * View and download as a PDF here Also view in GoogleMaps, as separate layers for each day. Great to use on a smartphone. 3 methods: click here  or copy & paste this link: https://tinyurl.com/y9uxjb5y or scan this QR code:   GOOD LUCK – and please remember the ‘small print’: –  Brockley and Ladywell Societies take no responsibility for items on sale –  Goods are sold as seen: returns are at the discretion of the vendor. Caveat emptor etc! –  In the event of bad weather, each participant can decide whether or not to go ahead   Why not end the summer with a big clear-out? Last year, dozens of people in Brockley and Ladywell took part, and many more grabbed a bargain. Delve into your cupboards and […]

Ashby Mews Gate and Tarmac: Report on Meeting

A civilised but lively meeting of about 60 people took place on Thursday 19 July at Myatt Garden School A summary of proceedings can be read and downloaded below. Detailed minutes of the meeting can be viewed and downloaded here, and the Powerpoint presentation here. After gates appeared at the northern end of Ashby Mews in April 2018, followed by tarmac in June, Brockley Society received a large number of email, phone and face-to-face complaints expressing considerable anger. At each stage we spoke to the mews owners, or “frontagers”, who had taken these measures, explaining Brockley Society’s opposition to them, and stating that closing off a right of way and creating a gated community was totally at odds with Brockley’s vibrant and open community, developed over many decades. We published our view on Brockley Society’s website and other social media that: retrospective planning application was needed for the gates all mews frontagers […]

Ashby Mews – Gates and Resurfacing. Public Meeting. Thursday 19 July 7.30pm,

Ashby Mews – Gates and Resurfacing Locked gates recently installed at the Ashby Road end of Ashby Mews, SE4, followed by resurfacing a stretch of the mews in tarmac have caused a significant number of residents to contact Brockley Society to complain. We are holding a meeting to gauge local opinion, explain the legal and planning ramifications and consider the next steps. Brockley Society Public Meeting Thursday 19 July 7.30pm, Myatt Garden School, Rokeby Road, SE4 1DF Everyone is welcome, whether you oppose or support the changes, simply walk through the mews, or are just interested in the Brockley Conservation Area. Those responsible for the gates and tarmac and those whose properties are affected are also welcome. Brockley Society’s position is as follows: 1. Resurfacing the Mews in tarmac Brockley’s mews are an integral part of the character of the Conservation Area. We view black tarmac as inappropriate and believe […]

Ashby Mews: erection of gate, tarmac resurfacing and Conservation Area status

9 June 2018 Brockley Society is aware of the installation of gates at the northern end of Ashby Mews and has advised initiating mews residents (frontagers) that: retrospective planning application is needed otherwise LB Lewisham will start enforcement action as the gate is too high even though the Mews is privately owned, all mews frontagers along the whole length should have been consulted a management strategy should have been agreed to ensure free access is maintained for pedestrians as well as delivery and emergency vehicles Despite this advice being given to the organising mews residents it seems to have fallen on deaf ears, as earlier this week the northern end of the mews access lane was resurfaced with black tarmacadam. As this destroys the rural character that is such a unique characteristic of the Conservation Area (CA), the Society has escalated its concern via Ward Councillors so as to extend the […]

BMCG leeks ready to be planted

Breakspears Mews Community Garden – Senior Gardening Club 2018

FREE Senior Gardening Club starts on Thursday 12th April 2018. It runs for 8 weeks every Thursday, from 10am to 12.30pm Attend one session or all! Everyone is welcome, no gardening experience required and no need to book. The garden team will provide gardening tools, seeds, tea, coffee and biscuits. TIP: Please wear appropriate footwear, as it might be muddy and slippery. Take gardening gloves too. NOTE: in case of heavy rain the session will be cancelled Access: Breakspears Mews, Ashby Road, SE4 1UW or rear of St Peter’s Court, 29-31 Wickham Road, SE4 1NE For more info contact us at:      

Brockley Society AGM 2017

Wednesday 15 November 2017, 7.30 – 9.30pm  Brockley Social Club, 240 Brockley Road, SE4 2SU  If you are at all interested in finding out more about what the Society does, if want to get involved in a particular project, or if simply want to make a suggestion, please come along!  The Annual General Meeting, at which the official business mandated by the Society’s charitable status and its own founding constitution is transacted. We’ll hear about several interesting activities related to the Society’s activities before then moving on to official business. 7.30pm Photo competition: “The people at the heart of Brockley’s businesses”. Display of shortlist and three winners Edimental Gardening – hear from Ruth Wong on how to have an edible garden that is also beautiful “Brockley: Then&Now” (dir. Gavin Renz). A short film telling the story of the planning and preparation of the 2015 mass photo on Hilly Fields Brockley Society’s (digital) archive. How to submit photos and ephemera. […]

Festival of Ideas For Change. Sunday 19th November 2017

Our second FREE Festival of Ideas is nearly upon us! Sunday November 19, 2017, from 9.30am until  5.30pm, at Lewisham Southwark College (LeSoCo) on Lewisham Way SE4 1UT. We’ve put together another line-up of speakers that draws on the areas’s great wealth of thinkers and doers. Celebrating our community strength, they will offer challenging new perspectives to some of the big issues of our time, stimulating debate, sharing knowledge and hopefully inspiring action. Throughout the day there will be over 20 speakers in five sessions with the following themes: Battle of Lewisham: 40 years later Housing, Homelessness and Inequality Debt, Money and Exploitation Food and the Environment From Ideas to Action – Practical examples of action Films and audio recordings will also be screened throughout the day. Find out more on our Festival of Ideas webpage.  Sunday November 19, 2017. 10am – 5.30pm Lewisham Southwark College (LeSoCo), Lewisham Way, SE4 1UT FREE ENTRY TO […]

Brockley & Ladywell Front Garden Sale 2017

Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th September 2017 11am – 4pm   *****   LIST OF ADDRESSES NOW AVAILABLE   ***** View and download as a PDF here  or 3 ways to open in GoogleMaps (eg mobile): click here  or copy this: https://tinyurl.com/ybluac7k or scan this:   *****   GOOD LUCK!   *****   Why not end the summer with a big clear-out? Delve into your cupboards and lofts, sheds and garages. Find out what surplus treasures you’ve got hidden away.   Last year, over 70 participants in Brockley successfully de-cluttered. Many more grabbed a bargain. We’ve joined forces with Ladywell, providing even more vendors over one weekend. Applications are already coming in thick and fast… It’s completely free to take part. You can participate on either or both days To attract browsers, it is definitely best if there is a ‘cluster’ of sales in or near your street. And it’s a great way to meet […]

Front Garden Sale

Gardeners’ Question Time at Prendergast: 29th August 2017

                  THIS EVENT IS NOW SOLD OUT. The recording of the programme will be broadcast on BBC Radio 4 at 3pm on Friday 1st September, and repeated the following Sunday (3rd) at 2pm.   Brockley Society’s Street Trees for Living  campaign is delighted to announce that it will be hosting Radio 4’s flagship gardening programme Gardeners’ Question Time on Tuesday 29th August 2017 at The Mural Hall, Prendergast Hilly Fields College (Hilly Fields campus), London SE4 1LE. Tickets cost £4.50 (and include a glass of wine) and can be purchased on Ticketmaster by clicking the link here. Further information about the event will hopefully be available nearer the time.   The provisional schedule is as follows:  5:30pm Doors open and the Mural Hall can be viewed 5:30pm – 6:15pm Questions submitted (we don’t yet know the make up of the panel but questions about trees would be particularly appreciated) 6:15pm Producer […]

Brockley Society Photographic Portrait Competition

DEADLINE EXTENDED UNTIL AUGUST 31ST Are you a keen photographer? Are you interested in Brockley, and the people who work in its businesses and shops? If so, why not enter our free photographic portrait competition! First Prize: £150 cash Second Prize: £50 cash   Entries must be portraits of the people at the heart of the present-day Brockley’s businesses. Can you produce an image to rival this amazing group portrait of ‘Brockley’s brickmakers’ taken in the 1890s?*  All entries will be showcased in an exhibition later in the year. Although they don’t necessarily live here in Brockley, the people running its businesses are its beating heart. We want to celebrate them, and document them for posterity. Shopkeepers, baristas, hairdressers, postmen, estate agents, brewers… There are two categories: photographers aged Under 16, and Over 16. Deadline for entries is August 31st 2017. The Judging Panel will include professional photographer Pete Bartlett. Please ensure you try to ask permission from […]

Children Watching Punch & Judy show, 1972.

Brockley Society Open Meeting: Growing up in Brockley

7.30pm, Wednesday April 19, 2017 at the Brockley Social Club. As new people move into the area it sometimes seems that Brockley is changing. But many people who grew up in Brockley, went to school and played in our streets still live here. We are inviting several people, ranging from a teenager to a 93-year-old, to bring their Brockley recollections. How different was Brockley in the 1930s compared to the 1960s, the 1990s or today? If you grew up in Brockley, assemble about three minutes’ worth of memories from your childhood and bring them to the meeting with any photos or interesting items — and invite your gang of friends too if they’re still around. Venue: Brockley Social Club 240 Brockley Road London, SE4 2SU Photograph from the Lewisham Local History and Archives Centre (‘Children Watching Punch & Judy, Durham Hill 1972’; ref: LEW_PH-87-13445) Full disclosure: although the photo is not actually […]

Festival of Ideas for Change

On Sunday 20th November 2016, over 250 people attended the inaugural Festival of Ideas for Change in the Mural Hall at Prendergast Hilly Fields College. A fascinating range of speakers came and shared ideas about how to achieve a more peaceful and equitable future. To find out more about this hugely successful event, visit the Festival pages on this website. Listen to audio recordings of the presentations, find out more about the speakers, and view the photo gallery… Explore the pages.

The audience at the inaugural 'Festival of Ideas for Change'.
Cupcakes at the Mid Winter Warmer event, February 2017 (held at the Brockley Social Club).

MidWinter Warmer 2017

Saturday 11 February, 2pm-5pm Brockley Social Club, 240 Brockley Road, SE4 2SU The cold and slightly snowy weather did not deter our attendees at the annual Seniors Mid-Winter Warmer on 11th February. We were beautifully regaled by the Senior’s Choir, led once again by Christine Bond, and there were plentiful refreshments; sandwiches and delicious home made cakes. Jennifer Owens delivered a very informative talk about Alzheimer’s awareness and shared ideas on how to befriend those in the community who are living with dementia. The raffle heralded the end of the afternoon; we are most grateful to the local businesses and individuals who donated such a variety of prizes such as chocolates and vouchers. This is always such a warm event and this year in particular we were happy to meet new volunteers who came along to help. If you would like to be part of the tea party next year, […]

Brockley Society Annual General Meeting. 7.30pm, Wednesday 16 November.

Wednesday 16 November, 7.30pm Brockley Social Club All welcome No obligation   As required by charity law, Brockley Society elects officers and other sub-committees every year. This AGM will be selecting these officers for the coming 12 months. By coming along to the meeting there is no obligation to participate, but you are entitled to vote, and may of course choose to stand or join. Anybody is entitled to stand for any of the 4 main officer positions (see details below), and/or to join any of the sub-committees. You can just turn up on the night and add your name to the lists that will be voted on. But please also feel free to get in touch beforehand if you are considering standing and have any queries.   7.00pm: Informal gathering Meet other attendees and have a drink at the bar. 7.30pm: Brockley Voices presentation Over the past 18 months the Brockley […]

Brockley Conservation Area: Advantages and Responsibilities

(This article appeared in the June 2016 Newsletter) Special architectural and historic interest Because of its special architectural and historic interest, Brockley Conservation Area was designated by the council in 1973 and extended in 1991, 1993 and 2005. Building of this speculatively-developed Victorian suburb began in the 1830s. Most houses were built in the second half of the 19th century, with southern parts completed in the 1900s. The special character comes from the variety of architectural styles and detail, the leafiness of gardens and trees, and the distinctive street layout. Distinctive detailing includes stucco capitals and window surrounds, tile paths, terracotta details and spacious front gardens. Post-war buildings exist almost entirely as a result of bomb destruction during the war. Large houses were requisitioned by the government for families made homeless by bombing and the council later bought up properties falling into dereliction, which explains the large number of council properties […]

Informal Open Meeting: 7.30pm, Weds 14th September. Unit 3, Ashby Mews, SE4 1TB

Join us for this special meeting aimed at welcoming anyone who is interested in finding out more about what the Brockley Society does. Address:    Unit 3 Ashby Mews, SE4 1TB Time:           7.30pm, Wednesday 14th September Our great new infographic (see below) shows the many projects that the Brockley Society is currently involved in (PDF download here.) We will be reviewing these projects, particularly welcoming any new ideas and suggestions, and any ideas for possible other projects in the future. We are already focusing on the Festival of Ideas, the Winter Warmer, and our own AGM in November over the next few months – but there is scope for other activities as well… Why not come along to find out more about what we do, meet like-minded folk, and maybe get involved? Light refreshments provided (but feel free to bring a pack of biscuits…) Hope to […]

Front Garden Sale September 2016

Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th September 2016 ++++++++ 11am – 4pm ++++++++ Why not end the summer with a big clear-out? Delve into your cupboards and lofts, sheds and garages… Find out what surplus treasures you’ve got hidden away; Join the ‘Cash from the Attic’ movement now!   *** STOP PRESS *** The 2016 Address list has been finalised! Download a PDF of the list here. Or a JPEG of the map here. Or browse the interactive GoogleMap here (see also below) Have a great weekend one and all!   *** *** ***    Last year, over 70 participants in Brockley successfully de-cluttered. And many, many more grabbed a bargain. Applications for this year are already coming in thick and fast… Why not join them? You can choose to participate on one or both days… And it’s completely free to take part!   It definitely works best if there is a […]

Hilly Fields Mass Photo: media installation at Conran Estates

Friday 15th – Sunday 17th July. ‘The Big Photo’ on Sunday 19 July 2015 on Hilly Fields captured a contemporary portrait of who we are today, inspired by the historic 1918 photo taken in the same place. About 6,000 people took part. The photographer was Simon Terrill, renowned for his work with large-scale community gatherings. We will display photos, video clips and photo-booth pictures taken by others on the day. Call in to have a look or buy the historic Big Photo. Location: Conran Estates, 180 Brockley Road, SE4 2RR. Times: Friday 15th July: 4-7pm Saturday 16th July: 1-4pm Sunday: 17th July: 11am-2pm

Camera's eye view of the throng
Sizzle sizzle! Flickr (Photo: Matt Lancashire on Flickr - CC)

Brockley Society BBQ: Friday 8th July, 7.30pm, Stone Circle, Hilly Fields

Bring friends and family for a communal cook-out, and to meet others from the Brockley area. All are welcome! Some basic food and refreshments will be provided, and feel free to bring your own to cook on BrocSoc’s barbecue. This is a fairly low-key gathering rather than a party; the aim is to just enjoy a pleasant summer evening in the company of community friends. Hope to see you there!

Picture Gallery: Hilly Fields Fayre 2016

Here are the pictures from Hilly Fields Midsummer Fayre, Saturday 18 June. Just click an image below to zoom in! We would like to thank: The stallholders who brought fun and vitality to the Fayre last Saturday The dozens of volunteers who worked extremely hard work to make the day a huge success! Special thanks to the countless people who brought wonderful cakes for our tea-and-cake stall. We have never had so many — it makes us proud to be part of such a community! And of course everyone who came along, ate, drank, bought vintage bric-a-brac and made the day such a success! A date for your diary – Next year’s Fayre with be on: Saturday 24 June 2017

The maypole drew the crowds

Historical Mews Walk. Sunday 8 May, 11am – 12.30pm

Brockley Society president and veteran historian Gillian Heywood MBE is leading another of her fascinating walking tours of the hidden gems of Brockley. It will take place between on Sunday 8th May, between 11am-12.30pm. Running between the back gardens of the large houses on Upper Brockley Road, Manor Avenue, Wickham Road and Breakspears Road, Brockley’s mews are quite unlike the ‘posh’ residential mews in central London. They have a special character of their own, and a varied history. Originally used by tradespeople and servants in the large houses on these roads, they fell into disuse for many years and were plagued by fly-tipping problems. Thankfully, recent concerted effort has vastly improved the character of these unique thoroughfares, with their current uses including garages, storage, light industrial units and live-work units. They also now host buzzing wildlife, some great street art, and the fabulous Community Garden in Breakspears Mews. Join us for […]

Breakspears Mews Community Garden: Visitors’ Day and AGM

Breakspears Mews Community Garden is a shared green space that has been planned, designed, built and maintained by some community members for the use and enjoyment of all Brockley’s community. We grow vegetables, herbs, fruits and flowers communally. The Garden has developed over the last three years, after local residents came to a Brockley Society AGM wanting some action on the Mews. Dumped rubbish and anti-social businesses in the mews had been a problem for over 20 years, but determined action by volunteers and the assistance of many agencies in the council and elsewhere mean we now have a resource for community enjoyment. The Annual General Meeting for 2016 and a Visitor’s Day took place on Saturday April 9th. But we welcome new volunteers, both young and old, at any time! Visit the Breakspears Mews Community Garden website here, to find out all about what is being grown and how […]

BMCG Seniors' gardening club. May 2015

Sunday March 13th: Brockley Street Trees event “Everything to play for!”

The Tree Committee cordially invite you to the 5th ‘Tree Enthusiasts’ event! 11.30am, Sunday 13th March 2016 Upstairs at the Talbot Public House “STREET TREES – Everything to play for!” Since 2012, local residents have raised and voted for funds to plant nearly 150 new trees, at numerous locations in the area. This Tree Committee informal open event is for anyone who is keen to see more new street trees (both in Brockley and beyond). Questions also welcome about any aspect of local trees in general, promotion of more, and choices for gardens, yards, plots or even pots. Tea/coffee and cakes served ALL WELCOME! FREE! Upstairs at the Talbot Public House 2 Tyrwhitt Road (Lewisham Way end) Please let us know you’re coming – or just turn up. Donations welcome Visit the BrockleyStreetTrees website

Midwinter Warmer Event 2016

  Seniors citizens from Brockley and beyond came together for several hours on Saturday 13th February at the Brockley Social Club for the ‘Midwinter Warmer’ event, now in its eighth year. Sandwiches and cakes were provided by volunteers, and entertainment was provided by the Seniors Choir. One senior, Gloria Brown, commented: “I really enjoyed myself. There was such a good turnout despite the bad weather.  As usual there were more women than men but nevertheless the atmosphere was warm and friendly. “Each guest was given two raffle tickets – one for a drink and the other for the prize draw – and everyone won a prize. I arrived by myself as my friend couldn’t make it, but I had nice conversation with the two ladies who sat with me. I would like to thank all those that volunteered and made the event such a success.” One brave man from the […]

The Right Tree in Your Own Place

Brockley Society Tree Committee – Tree Enthusiast’s Event Sunday 29 November 2015 11.30am – 12.30pm The Talbot Public House, 2 Tyrwhitt Road, Brockley, SE4 1QG (Lewisham Way end) It’s tree-planting season in gardens as well as streets.  It’s another chance for many to replace a tree or plant a new one.  Questions will be welcomed by Brockley Society’s Tree Committee, about choices for gardens, yards, plots or even pots – and about the promotion of local trees in general. Alder, almond, angelica, apple, ash, aspen, autumn flowering cherry (shown) are a few of just the As……come and consider some of the rest this Sunday at a short and informal meeting.Tea/coffee and cakes served – donations welcomed.  If you can, please let us know if you can come – or just turn up!Contact: trees@brockleysociety.org.uk

Annual General Meeting

Wednesday 11 November 2015 from 6pm at the Brockley Social Club, 240 Brockley Road, SE4 2SU (corner Foxberry Road, opposite Esso garage). From 6pm: Sale of the Big Photo 7.30pm: Presentation – background to 1918 photo 8.30 – 9.30pm: AGM business

Loveliest of Trees

An outstanding concert of celebrated performers in a spectacular setting to raise funds for street tree planting in Brockley. Ticket price of £45 includes sparkling wine and canapes.

Camera's eye view of the throng

2015 Mass Photo collection 11 November 2015

To get your copy of the photograph taken on Hilly Fields on Sunday 19 July 2015, join us at the Brockley Social Club to collect the print you have pre-ordered, or browse and purchase on the day! Collection of prints (with no charge for postage & packaging): Wednesday 11 November 2015, 6.00 – 7.30pm Brockley Social Club, 240 Brockley Road, SE4 2SU.

Breakspears Mews Community Garden

Big Open Day – Saturday 4 July 2015, 12-3.30pm Come and see the progress made since last year, and perhaps get involved! Access: Breakspears Mews, Ashby Road, SE4 1UW or rear  

Tending the garden

Tree Enthusiasts’ Event

Sunday 5 July 1015, 11am – 1pm Prendergast Hilly Fields College, Mural Hall, Hilly Fields Campus, SE4 1LE. Rachel Mooney from the Friends of Hilly Fields will present an extended version of the talk she gave at our Trees in the City conference in May 2014 about the history of Hilly Fields. It is a fascinating talk and highly recommended.

In Search of David Jones: Artist, Soldier, Poet

Director Derk Shiel will introduce his Film about David Jones’ early years on Monday 1 June 2015, 7.30pm to 9.30pm, St Peter’s Church, Wickham Road, corner of Cranfield Road, Brockley, SE4 1LT. FREE event as part of Brockley Max Festival, with Friends of Brockley and Ladywell Cemeteries. David Jones was both a painter and one of the first generation British modernist poets. He was born in 1895 in Arabin Road, Brockley, and lived in Vesta Road and Howson Road. His drawings and delicate paintings are in Tate Britain and Kettle’s Yard, Cambridge. In Brockley Cemetery, to the west of the Chapel, is his circular grave stone, at his parents’ grave, a cross, carved by Eric Gill.

Historical Mews Walk

Led by Gillian Heywood MBE Sunday 10 May 2015, 11am – 12.30pm Meet at the corner of Harefield and Wickham Roads (outside the Red House), to explore some of Brockley’s Mews, including Garsington, Wickham and Breakspears.