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Bushey Heath is a neighborhood in the south east part of Bushey. Even though Bushey is mentioned in the Domesday Book in the 11th century, Bushey Heath didn’t form as a settlement until the 19th century. During the Napoleonic Wars, this WD23 area was known as Bushey Common. It was supposed to be used for farming but the beautiful surroundings made it suitable for urban development. That’s when most of the houses were built. In the 18th century, the journey from Bushey Heath to Stanmore was dangerous due to the many highwaymen that frequented the road. This was a heavily-traveled caravan route to London. The Three Crowns inn at Bushey Heath was a meeting place for merchants to join forces and not travel the road alone.
The highest point in the historic county of Middlesex is located in this North London area. The location is at the intersection of the A4140 and A409. It sits at 502 ft above sea level. Although there was a proposal to build a tube station at Bushey Heath, it didn’t go through. The station should have been at the intersection of the A41 and A411. Construction works began but were halted when World War II began. The site was used as a filming location for Summer Holiday, a 1963 movie featuring famous musician Cliff Richard. Bushey Heath featured in other movies such as Cannon and Ball, Children of Men, and Harry Potter.
Special effects artist Tom Howard is one of the most famous Bushey Heath residents. He won the Oscar award for special effects two times. Musician Tony O’Malley was born in Bushey Heath. He was part of the Arrival and Kokomo bands. As a teen, George Michael studied at the Bushey Meads School. Wham! member Shirlie Holliman also went to school at Bushey Meads School. She is also known for the Pepsi&Shirlie duo.