Things To Do
in Bickley
Bickley is a leafy residential suburb in the London Borough of Bromley, offering a tranquil escape from the city with broad tree-lined streets and elegant period houses. It sits on the eastern edge of Greater London, blending village charm with quick access to central London via rail and road. The area is prized for its green spaces, including wooded parks and lakes, making outdoor strolls a constant option.
Local pubs, cafes and schools give it a family-friendly, close-knit feel while remaining within easy reach of Bromley’s shops and amenities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Bickley Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning surrounded by nature. Take a leisurely walk along the scenic paths and breathe in the fresh air. Afterward, stop by a local café for a traditional English breakfast to fuel your adventures.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Chislehurst Caves, a fascinating network of man-made tunnels rich in history. Join a guided tour to learn about the caves' unique stories and their significance throughout the years. Afterwards, explore the quaint shops in Chislehurst for unique souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local pub, where you can savor traditional British dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere. After dinner, take a stroll through the charming streets of Bickley, where you can admire the historic architecture under the stars. End the evening with a visit to a local brewery for a tasting of craft beers.
Visit the Bickley Railway Station to catch a glimpse of the Victorian architecture that characterizes the village. From there, embark on a nature walk through the nearby parks and gardens, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the countryside. Bring your camera, as there will be plenty of photo opportunities of blooming flowers and wildlife.
After a hearty lunch at a local eatery, delve into history at the nearby Eltham Palace, a stunning blend of Art Deco and medieval architecture. Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the estate's fascinating past. Consider joining a guided tour for an in-depth experience of the royal residence.
In the evening, treat yourself to a theatrical performance at a local theater, showcasing the vibrant culture of the area. Experience the thrill of live entertainment and connect with the local art scene. Post-show, head to a nearby cocktail bar to unwind and discuss the evening's highlights.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🧋Lunch in mid-range cafe | $12-20 |
| 🏠1-bedroom rent (city area approximation) | $1,600-2,200 (monthly) |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $140-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, leafy suburb with easy access to central London
- Green spaces and parks suitable for outdoor activities
- Good transport links to Bromley and the city
- Safe, family-friendly environment
- Limited nightlife within Bickley itself
- Can be expensive for housing in the Bromley area
- Public transport can be crowded during peak hours in London-bound directions
- Weather can be changeable and showery
Places to Visit in Bickley
Visit one of these nice places.
A peaceful lake with reflections of trees and historic parkland, ideal for early-morning shots.
Charming rows of Victorian/Edwardian houses and leafy streets with distinctive details.
Hiking trails and elevated clearings provide wide views over the countryside and woodlands.
Ancient woodlands with seasonal color and misty mornings, great for moody landscape photography.
Food in Bickley
Bickley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty morning plate with eggs, bacon, sausage, beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast. Common at local cafés and pubs.
Must-Try!
Crispy battered fish with thick chips and mushy peas; widely available at traditional chippies and pubs.
A comforting, flaky pastry pie filled with tender beef and rich ale gravy, a staple at British pubs.
A refined accompaniment of scones, clotted cream, jam, and tea, often served in cafés and hotels.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in Bromley town center offering fresh produce, bread, pastries, and ready-to-eat bites.
Occasional farmers' markets in surrounding boroughs with seasonal fruit, veg, and locally produced goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British typically queue patiently and speak politely; please say please and thank you.
Arrive on time for appointments and reservations; lateness is discouraged.
Keep noise moderate, especially in residential areas in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Bickley
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; 10-15% at sit-down restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxi fares or leave a small tip for good service.
Card payments (contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still useful for smaller vendors or farmers markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Trees bloom and parks come alive; try morning walks for softer light and gentle temperatures.
Warm days with occasional showers; use early mornings or late evenings for photography and outdoor activities.
Golden foliage along streets and parks; ideal for portraits and landscape shots.
Short days and potential frost; festive lights and clear night skies offer night photography opportunities.
Bickley at Night
Hiking in Bickley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive park with woodland trails, grassy meadows and scenic outlooks.
Large green space with layered woodlands and walking routes near Orpington.
Ancient woodlands offering varied trails and sweeping views across southeast London.
Airports
How to reach Bickley by plane.
Closest airport with short domestic and European routes; reachable by rail to Canary Wharf and central London, then River and road connections.
Major international hub; best reached by car or rail transfers via London to the south.
Large international hub; quick rail links via Heathrow Express and other services to central London.
Secondary international hub to the north; reachable by road or rail with transfers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families drawn to the area’s schools, parks, and safe streets.
Professionals who travel to central London for work, using train services and road links.
An established older demographic in quiet residential streets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and schools; weekend matches are common.
Seasonal sport with local clubs and pitches in parks.
Sundridge Park Golf Club offers a classic golf experience near Bickley.
Public courts and club facilities are common in parks and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bickley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues in the area offer vegetarian options; look for bean dishes, veggie pies, and seasonal salads. Many cafés can adapt menu items on request.