Mitcham: A place of greenery and rich history

House-hunters seeking a place to live that offers plenty of green spaces and an interesting local history may find what they are looking for by seeking flats to rent in Mitcham.

This scenic part of London, which is located in the borough of Merton, is a busy and thriving area that nevertheless manages to offer a genuine outdoor feel, thanks to the more than 460 acres of green space located in the vicinity.

Mitcham was once famous for its lavender farms and was a vital British industrial centre from the end of the 18th century through to the 1960s, with around 90 mills once lining the banks of the Wandle river, which flows through Mitcham.

These mills helped Mitcham to attain worldwide fame thanks to the calico, gunpowder, snuff, dyes and other goods that were produced there.

Today, Mitcham is a place where residents and tourists alike can immerse themselves in history, with landmarks including the old windmill remnants located near to the Mill House Pub and the Merton Heritage Centre, which is situated locally.

At the centre, people can attend exhibitions about the borough's past, see authentic historical documents and objects, or take part in activities for visitors of all ages.

History can also be seen in action around the area, as Mitcham is home to what is thought to be the world's oldest cricket green to see continual use, as well as the oldest cricket club.

Similarly, the Mitcham Carnival, which takes place each summer, is said to be the most historic fair in England, having originally been granted a charter during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.

Those who attend the annual event can be entertained by live music, a full-sized funfair, licensed bar, food court and numerous charity stalls, all against the peaceful setting of Mitcham Common with its woodlands, parkland and pathways.

Elsewhere, residents will find that the area is well-stocked for their living needs, with transport and business links having been improved significantly since the opening of Mitcham Eastfields train station in 2008.

An eight-minute walk from the town centre, it was the first fully new suburban station in South London since World War II, providing a high standard of accessibility, sustainability and convenience.

Local schools are plentiful, including the likes of St Marks Church of England Academy, St Thomas of Canterbury Catholic Primary School and Eagle House School, while there is also a well-stocked library in the area.

Meanwhile, efforts are constantly being made by local authorities to drive further improvements across Mitcham, with recent schemes having seen redevelopments of public spaces, improved shopping facilities and the opening of a new market.

Furthermore, leading UK supermarket chain Morrisons was able to bolster the local economy in 2009 with the opening of a store on St Marks Road.

Merton Council has stated that it "is committed to providing for businesses and the local community and to making the town centre as an attractive and vibrant a place as possible where people can visit and shop".

Posted by Ben Carter 

Published 22nd November, 2011

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