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Kennington is a south London borough located primarily within the district of Lambeth and extends along the edge of the London Borough of Southwark. The area is situated 2.3 km (1.4 miles) south of Charing Cross and recognized in the London Plan as a local center.
Kennington is home to three notable London attractions, namely Kennington Park, the Oval cricket ground, and the Imperial War Museum. Another noteworthy location in the area is Stane Street, which runs from the Roman London Bridge down to Chichester through the opening in the North Downs at Box Hill close to Dorking.
The first mention of Lambeth comes from the 11th century when the area was known as Lambehitha. It means “landing area of lambs” and it refers to a port. The current spelling is used starting with the 13th century.
There are many rail stations that serve Kennington including the Oval tube station and Kennington tube station, both of which are situated in the Northern line. The latter has a direct northbound connection to North London, Central London, and the City of London. Other stations in close proximity to the area are Vauxhall and Lambeth North.
The Manor of Lambeth or Lambeth Palace dates back to the 12th century. It’s a grade I listed building that’s the official London residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury. It is also the home of the Community of Saint Anselm.
Poet William Blake lived here for 10 years. Fashion designer Stella McCartney, professional football player Kieran Gibbs, and bass player Guy Pratt were born here. Musician Rob Lord lived in the area. English actor Charlie Chaplin stayed at the Lambeth Workhouse.
Black Prince Road is named after Edward of Woodstock who lived there in the 14th century. He is known as the Black Prince and, although he died before taking the throne, he remains in history as an important figure during the Hundred Years’ War.