Did you know that...
Vauxhall SW1 is named after a 13th-century mercenary who owned a house in the area. Falkes de Breaute’s house was called Faulke’s Hall, Foxhall, and ultimately Vauxhall. Fox Hall’s gardens are mentioned in a 17th-century diary. Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens opened in 1740.
Vauxhall Park, one of Lambeth’s twelve Green Flag Award-winning parks, is not so large, but it has held a green flag award for over 5 years in a row. This park was opened over 125 years ago by Albert, Prince of Wales. Since 1890, the area has become a true London’s hidden gem, recognized as one of the best parks among 1,452 other green spaces in the UK.
Be sure to visit the MI6 building, based not far from Vauxhall Cross if you are a fan of spy stories. This building of the British Secret Intelligence service has been used for filming in many of the famous James Bond spy films, including the famous Goldeneye, The World is Not Enough, and Die Another Day.
Another iconic destination in Vauxhall is the Vauxhall End, the north-western end of the Oval Cricket ground. During 2002-2005 years, it was redeveloped to increase its ground capacity to around 23,000 sits. A new single four-tier OCS grandstand was constructed to replace several demolished sites.
Noteworthy, too, is Vauxhall City Farm, which is a real and working community project since 1977. When demolishing of buildings was taking place in 1972 – 1976, local residents began growing vegetables and rearing livestock on unused land in the vicinity. Mostly run by volunteers, the farm is a home to over 100 animals, including sheeps, pigs, alpacas, and more. You can also find a riding centre, café, and dozens of youth and education projects there. It’s a great way to spend a day off and get outdoors.
Vauxhall’s art galleries include Damien Hirst’s Newport Street Gallery, Cabinet Gallery, Beaconsfield, Gasworks, Amstel Art, and their number is growing constantly.
Vauxhall Gardens were a public relaxation area that had several acres of land destined for walking and entertainment facilities. The Gardens functioned from 1660 until 1859 when they were closed. They are featured in classic works of literature such as Vanity Fair, The Dynasts, and Burney’s Cecilia.
The Royal Vauxhall Tavern was opened in 1863. Famous performers include Hinge and Bracket, Lily Savage, and Diana Dors. In 1980, Diana, Princess of Wales visited the tavern with Freddie Mercury, Kenny Everett, and Cleo Rocos. She was disguised as a man.
Vauxhall Motors is named after the area. Vauxhall Park was opened in 1890 by Prince Albert. Its cost was £45,000. The park features a lavender garden and hosts a yearly lavender harvest event. Brunswick House is a 17th-century mansion house named after the Dukes of Brunswick.