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Eltham

Eltham, Greenwich, United Kingdom

Located in the Royal Borough of Greenwich in the United Kingdom, Eltham is a charming suburb with a rich history and plenty to offer visitors. One of the main attractions in Eltham is the historic Eltham Palace, a stunni…

#Historic town#Green spaces#Royal borough of Greenwich#Tudor architecture#Scenic views

Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Eltham.

Top Hotels in Eltham

Top Flights to Eltham

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Eltham.

Tours

Eltham Palace and Gardens

Explore the fascinating blend of medieval and Art Deco architecture at Eltham Palace, surrounded by beautiful gardens.

The Bob Hope Theatre

Experience live performances and events at this historic theatre.

Shopping

Eltham Farmers' Market

Visit the local farmers' market for fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies.

Passey Place Shopping Area

A variety of shops and boutiques offering local and international products.

Outdoor

Well Hall Pleasaunce

A picturesque park and garden area perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying nature.

Royal Blackheath Golf Club

Enjoy a day of golf at one of the oldest golf clubs in the world, set in beautiful grounds.

Oxleas Woods

Explore the ancient woodland with trails perfect for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the outdoors.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Eltham.

Currency

£ | GBP | Pound Sterling

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, English

Average weather

Eltham

Jan

25°14°

Feb

26°15°

Mar

24°13°

Apr

21°10°

May

17°7°

Jun

14°5°

Jul

13°4°

Aug

15°5°

Sep

17°7°

Oct

20°9°

Nov

22°11°

Dec

24°13°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Eltham.

What people love

Eltham, located in Greenwich, United Kingdom, offers several pros for travelers:

Historical Attractions: Eltham is known for its rich history, including the stunning Eltham Palace, a former royal residence with beautiful Art Deco interiors and extensive gardens. Visitors can explore the palace's history and architecture, providing a glimpse into England's royal past.
Green Spaces: Eltham boasts numerous green spaces and parks, such as the expansive Eltham Park South and the picturesque Well Hall Pleasaunce. These areas offer opportunities for relaxing walks, picnics, and outdoor activities, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.
Cultural Heritage: The area has a strong cultural heritage, evident in its historic buildings, local museums, and art galleries. Visitors can immerse themselves in Eltham's cultural scene by exploring its heritage sites and attending events showcasing local artists and performers.
Convenient Location: Eltham's location in Greenwich makes it a convenient base for exploring other attractions in London, such as the Royal Observatory, Greenwich Park, and the Cutty Sark. Travelers can easily access public transportation options to reach central London and other nearby destinations.
Charming Neighborhoods: Eltham features charming neighborhoods with a mix of historic architecture, quaint shops, and cozy cafes. Visitors can wander through the streets, soak in the traditional English atmosphere, and engage with the friendly local community.

Overall, traveling to Eltham offers a unique blend of history, nature, culture, and convenience, making it an appealing destination for those seeking a well-rounded experience in the United Kingdom.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Eltham, located in Greenwich, United Kingdom, could include:

Limited tourist attractions: Eltham is a residential suburb rather than a major tourist destination, so there may be fewer attractions and activities compared to other areas in London.
Transportation issues: Eltham is not as well-connected by public transportation as other parts of London, so getting around may be more challenging.
Limited dining and shopping options: While Eltham has some local shops and restaurants, it may not offer as diverse a range of dining and shopping experiences as other areas in London.
Distance from central London: Eltham is located further away from central London, so if you are looking to spend most of your time in the heart of the city, you may face longer commute times.
Potential for lower nightlife options: Eltham may not have as vibrant a nightlife scene as other areas in London, so if you are interested in exploring the city's nightlife, you may need to travel to other neighborhoods.

Please note that these potential cons are subjective and may vary depending on individual preferences and travel priorities.

Information not available.

Eltham is a district in the Royal Borough of Greenwich, located in southeast London, United Kingdom. It has a rich history that dates back several centuries, with significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks contributing to its development.

Early History

Medieval Period: Eltham was a rural area during the medieval period. It is first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086 as "Ealdham," which means "old home" in Old English.
Eltham Palace: The most significant historical landmark in Eltham is Eltham Palace. Originally a moated manor house, it became a royal residence in the 14th century. Eltham Palace was a favorite of medieval monarchs, including Edward II and Richard II. The Great Hall, built by Edward IV in the 1470s, is a notable surviving part of the original medieval palace.

Tudor Era

Henry VIII: King Henry VIII spent part of his childhood at Eltham Palace, and it continued to be a royal residence until the 16th century. However, as Greenwich Palace became more favored, Eltham's importance declined.

19th and Early 20th Century

Development: The arrival of the railways in the 19th century transformed Eltham from a rural area into a suburban district. The construction of the Bexleyheath Line in the 1890s made it more accessible and attractive for residential development.
Eltham College: Originally founded as the School for the Sons of Missionaries in 1842, it later became Eltham College, an independent school with a notable reputation.

20th Century

Restoration of Eltham Palace: In the 1930s, Eltham Palace was transformed into a lavish home by the wealthy Courtauld family, who added an Art Deco extension. The Courtaulds were significant patrons of the arts, and their renovation of Eltham Palace is seen as a masterpiece of 20th-century design.
World War II: Eltham was affected by bombings during the Blitz, causing damage to many buildings.

Modern Era

Conservation and Tourism: Eltham Palace is now managed by English Heritage and is open to the public. It is a major tourist attraction, showcasing both medieval and Art Deco architecture.
Residential Area: Today, Eltham is a residential suburb known for its green spaces, including Avery Hill Park and Oxleas Wood.

Notable Figures

Edith Nesbit: The children's author, known for works such as "The Railway Children," lived in Eltham.
Bob Hope: The famous American comedian and actor was born in Eltham in 1903 before emigrating to the United States.

Modern Developments

Transport Links: Eltham is well-connected by road and rail, with regular services to central London. This accessibility continues to drive its popularity as a residential area.

Eltham's historical significance, particularly through Eltham Palace, and its evolution from a royal residence to a suburban district, highlight its unique role in London's history.