Did you know that...
Belmont SM2 is a relatively new settlement that developed in the 19th century. It takes the name of the nearby railway station Belmont. The railway opened in 1865. Originally, the station was named California after the California Arms pub located just across the street. It changed names ten years later. California Pub dates from 1858. It was heavily damaged during World War II and completely rebuilt in 1955. This South West London area is associated with the psychiatric hospital Banstead Asylum. Even though the hospital is in nearby Banstead, it is closer to Belmont village and station. Famous patients include Margaret Fairchild who was the inspiration for The Lady in the Van 2015 movie. The hospital was demolished and HM Prison High Down was built on its former grounds.
The Belmont Park and two nature reserves make this SM2 area a suitable vacation destination for nature lovers. Cuddington Meadows is a Grade I listed nature reserve. It is a grassland where plants such as greater knapweed and field scabious grow. In the 19th century, the reserve was part of the Walnut Tree Farm. Rare butterfly species such as the small blue and green hairstreak have been seen here. There is an access road from Cuddington Park Close to the reserve. Belmont Pastures is a Grade II listed nature reserve. It is a meadow with horse chestnut trees, wild flowers, and a variety of insects like grasshoppers and butterflies. It was part of the Belmont Hospital.
Belmont Heights was built on the grounds of the old Belmont Hospital which opened after World War. It was demolished in 1980.Racing driver and 1976 Formula One winner James Hunt was born here. Jazz player Don Lusher, author Peter Ritchie Calder, famous viola player Lionel Tertis, botanist David Bellamy, and conductor Barry Woodsworth are some of the most notable Belmont residents.
