I live on the outskirts of Blackheath, only a ten-minute walk away from the centre of town but when someone asks where I live in London I usually say Greenwich because everyone has heard of it.
Realising that I say this purely because Blackheath is less well-known, I thought it would be useful to give my own opinion, including what Blackheath has to offer, and even what it’s like living in this leafy part of London.
First impressions
If I were to describe Blackheath in one word is would be ‘quaint’, it possesses the traditional good looks and charm that you would expect to find in a countryside village in somewhere like the Cotswolds.
There are some stunning Victorian and Georgian buildings, and when you’re standing upon the grassy plain of the Heath it feels like you’ve been transported back in time.
About the Heath
The Heath is at the heart of Blackheath and widely considered its greatest asset. The 275 acres of open green space offers a peaceful retreat from central London.
You’ll catch it at its best on a summer’s day, where it provides a scenic place to lap up the good weather. It never gets really busy either because most people go to the nearby tourist attraction of Greenwich Park. So if you’re looking for somewhere a bit less touristy, head to the Heath instead.
And did I hear you say picnic? Well that’s a good idea! Grab a few beers from Zero Degrees, a restaurant that has a microbrewery and a fab selection of wood-fired pizzas. Or if you’re after healthy grub, Hand Made Food is the place to go.
Throughout the year, the Heath is home to several important events in London’s outdoor calendar, most notably the start of the London Marathon, and it’s also one of the major places to celebrate Guy Fawkes night, hosting one of city’s largest firework displays which attracts a crowd of up to 100,000 people in early November.
Blackheath’s most recognisable landmark is All Saints Church which is perched on the edge of the Heath like a scene right out of a pastoral painting.
Urban legend
You might already be wandering why the is town called Blackheath? Well, opinions divide on this but I’ll treat you with the most ghoulish answer first! Some people believe the name of the town refers to it being the mass burial ground for victims of the Black Death, a plague which claimed hundreds of millions of lives across Asia and Europe between 1346 – 1353. However, historians found the name recorded in 1166 as Blachehedfeld which means ‘dark or black heath field’, suggesting that Blackheath takes its name from the colour of the ground during that period. Believe what you will!
Where to eat in Blackheath
For its relatively small size, Blackheath sports a number of great pubs, cafes and restaurants. You’ll never have to go far for a beer or hard cider. Places to eat range from pizzerias to Indian to Argentinean to Thai to delis – your appetite will be thoroughly appeased.
Here are my highlights:
Hand Made Food
Healthy: My favourite cafe is Hand Made Food which I previously mentioned. As its name suggests, it has a delicious selection of foods from local produce that you can chosen from at their buffet counter or their small menu of the day which is written in chalk on a blackboard above the counter.
Address: 40 Tranquil Vale, Blackheath.
Website: handmadefood.com
Everest Inn
Veggies: While there isn’t a restaurant specifically for vegetarians there are a number of Indian places that offer plenty of vegetarian options. I recommend Everest Inn which specialises in Nepalese and Indian cuisine and half a lunch menu as well as a la carte.
Address: 41 Montpelier Vale
Website: everestinnblackheath.co.uk
Copper & Ink
Dinner Date: Copper & Ink is the latest addition to Blackheath’s culinary landscape, a modern restaurant with influences from classic French and Scandinavian cuisine. Created by former MasterChef UK finalist Chef Patron Tony Rodd and Head Chef Rob Parks, you can expect thoughtful dishes from a seasonal menu that changes monthly. If you’re looking to treat yourself or someone special, this is the best restaurant in town for the occasion!
Address: 5 Lee Road
Website: copperandink.com
Buenos Aires Cafe
Meat lovers: Look no further than Buenos Aires Cafe for top-notch steak matched appropriately with Argentinean wines. They also have a small selection of Argentinean products that you can buy to take home with you. If you haven’t tried Alfojores, dulce leche encased with biscuit then you’re in for a treat!
Address: 17 Royal Parade
Wesbite: buenosairescafe.co.uk
Hare & Billet
Pub grub: There are several pubs in Blackheath but the Hare & Billet rates among the best. I love the airy atmosphere and local vibe (dogs are allowed!). While I’m not a big drinker of beer I’m told their selection is great. So what do I usually go for if not for the beer? The sticky toffee pudding which is to die for.
Address: 1a Hare and Billet Rd
Website: hareandbillet.com
Houses in Blackheath - an architectural dreamland
If you speak to any architect working in London, they’ll probably tell you that Blackheath is a treasure trove of interesting architecture – old and new.
On initial glance many of the houses appear from Victorian and Edwardian period, take a wander into the residential areas and you’ll even find many with grand palladian designs. It’s pretty insane to see these kind of houses – an insight into see how the other half live!
In stark contrast you’ll find some wonderfully contemporary houses and small modernist estates dotted between them. The architectural contrasts make walking around the residential areas of Blackheath even more interesting than wandering around the town centre.
So would I recommend living in Blackheath?
Absolutely! It’s especially perfect for families and those who seek nature and tranquility in a busy city like London.
If you’re after clubs and bars then it’s possibly not the best place for you, but I will say that from Blackheath you can be in London Bridge in 10 minutes and Charing Cross is only 15 minutes by train. There’s also a direct train to Victoria that takes only 25 minutes. I don’t think one place could have everything I wanted – but I love living in this part of London for the nature and sense of community.
Accommodation in Blackheath
If you’re just looking to visit Blackheath, I recommend combining it with an exploration of Greenwich.
In regards to overnight accommodation in Blackheath, there’s not a whole lot on offer. The most popular hotel is The Clarendon Hotel, but I’d probably recommend staying in nearby Greenwich as it has more options.
