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Herne Hill was part of the manor of Milkwell that dates from the 13th century or even earlier. Until the 18th century, this area was mostly farms and woodland. It developed starting with 1783 when merchant Samuel Sanders bought land here and leased it for housing. John Rocque’s Map of London from 1746 marks this area under the name Island Green. Another mention shows it as Ireland Green. This name may derive from the nearby River Effra. The name Herne Hill appears for the first time in two fire insurance policies from 1792. This SE22 area was then spelled as Hearnes Hill and Herns Hill.
Herne Hill attracted many wealthy residents. By the middle of the 19th century, the road from Herne Hill Junction to Denmark Hill featured several large houses. Famous Victorian art critic John Ruskin was among the residents at that time. The opening of the local railway station triggered the population growth starting with 1862. Several London buses, including two night routes, serve this station. Half Moon pub is one of the notable Herne Hill buildings. This Grade II listed construction was originally a 17th-century inn. Poet Dylan Thomas used to visit the pub. The Half Moon was also a famous music venue that hosted performances by U2, The Police, Diz Disley, and many others.
They say that a Victorian folklore demon was once seen in this part of South East London. Back in 1872, Spring-heeled Jack was spotted next to St. Paul’s Church. The actor Roddy McDowall was born in Herne Hill. The actor is best known for portraying Caesar and Cornelius in The Planet of the Apes. Brockwell Park is a local landmark. Brockwell Hall is a 19th-century Grade II listed house within the park. The Lambeth Country Show takes place in this Herne Hill park. With an attendance of roughly 180,000, it is one of Europe’s largest free community events.