Did you know that...
This South East London area is part of the historic county of Kent. Chelsfield name derives from Cillesfelle which means “land that belongs to Ceol”. Ceol was most likely a prominent resident back in the day. This area includes the historic village of Chelsfield and a newer part that developed in the 20th century. The Anglican church of St Martin of Tours dates back to the 12th century. The church and the historic part of the village are separated by the Court Road. The old village features a primary school, village hall, and playing fields that host the annual Village Summer Fair. The fields have also been used by the local football and ladies hockey teams. The Five Bells is a pub in the old Chelsfield village.
Most of the shops can be found in the newer part of this BR6 area. New Chelsfield features hairdressers, takeaway restaurants, betting shop, and other amenities. The Chelsfield pub was known as The Heavy Horse. The local community center, the GP’s office, and a Methodist church are found on Windsor Drive. Chelsfield railway station opened in 1868. The current building is from 1970. The station was rebuilt after it was damaged by fire. The bus route connects Chelsfield with St Paul’s Cray and Green Street Green via Orpington.
Dora Jessie Saint is one of the notable residents. She was an English writer known for the Fairacre and Thrush Green novels which she published under the pen name, Miss Read. Children’s book author Edith Nesbit also lived here. Rumor has it that she took inspiration from the local station when writing The Railway Children book. TV chef Gary Rhodes and philosopher Michael Oakeshott lived here as well. Brass Crosby who was Lord Mayor of London in 1770 is one of the historic Chelsfield residents. The expression “bold as brass” supposedly derives from his name.
