Things To Do
in Bromley
Bromley is a leafy suburban borough in southeast London known for its family-friendly neighborhoods and green spaces. It offers a convenient base for exploring both the capital and surrounding countryside with quick rail links to central London. The town center blends traditional high streets, markets, and historic landmarks, while nearby parks invite relaxed daytime strolls.
Within a short drive, you can reach historic houses, nature reserves, and scenic country lanes that define this part of London and Kent.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Bromley Palace, where you can admire its grand architecture and learn about its history. Stroll through the picturesque Church House Gardens, enjoying the serene atmosphere and beautiful floral displays. Stop by a local café for a traditional English breakfast to fuel your adventures ahead.
In the afternoon, head to the Glades Shopping Centre for some retail therapy, where you can browse through a mix of high-street and independent shops. After shopping, visit the nearby Bromley Museum to delve into the local history and culture of the area. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the nearby Shortlands village, appreciating its quaint charm and unique character.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy pub in the heart of Bromley, sampling classic British dishes. After your meal, catch a performance at the Churchill Theatre, which often hosts a variety of productions from comedy to drama. Wind down with a stroll through the town center, soaking in the evening ambiance and perhaps grabbing a nightcap at a local bar.
Start your day with a refreshing walk in Kelsey Park, where you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and watch the swans glide on the lake. Take a moment to relax on one of the benches, observing the vibrant wildlife and lovely flowerbeds. Consider grabbing a takeaway coffee from a nearby café to sip as you wander through the park.
Continue your exploration with a delightful picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by the beauty of nature. After lunch, visit the nearby Bromley Golf Club for a few rounds of golf or simply enjoy the views from the clubhouse. Alternatively, you could rent a bike and explore the extensive cycling paths around the park area.
As evening approaches, venture to a nearby restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring seasonal ingredients. After your meal, consider attending a local event or concert at a nearby community center to engage with the local culture. Cap off your day with a quiet stroll back through the park, perhaps catching a glimpse of the sunset.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🧺Grocery basket for two people (weekly) | $60-90 |
| 🚇Public transit ride (single fare) | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $120-180 |
| 🍺Pint of beer in a pub | $5-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent rail links to central London and easy access to countryside
- Family-friendly with plenty of green spaces
- Diverse dining options and markets
- Relatively affordable compared to inner-city London
- Lesser nightlife compared to central London
- Some areas require transport to reach beyond the town center
- Parking can be challenging in peak times
- Certain attractions are outside the borough and may require travel
Places to Visit in Bromley
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lakeside spot with swans, weeping willows, and woodland paths perfect for tranquil nature photography.
Rolling woodlands, meadows, and long views across the parkland for landscapes and sunset shots.
Historic paths surrounding Darwin’s home, with charming cottages and garden scenes.
Historic façades and modern retail architecture, good for urban photography and street scenes.
Expansive green spaces, ponds, and interesting monuments close to Bromley for wide-angle shots.
Food in Bromley
Bromley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty morning staple across pubs and cafes, featuring eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, tomatoes, and toast.
Must-Try!
Classic battered fish with thick-cut fries, often served with mushy peas and tartar sauce.
Roast beef, chicken, or veggie option with roast potatoes, vegetables, gravy, and Yorkshire pudding.
A popular curry that reflects the UK’s multicultural dining scene, widely available in many Indian restaurants.
A rich dessert made with dates and toffee sauce, a great finish at many cafes and pubs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, street-food stalls, and seasonal treats in the town center.
Seasonal pop-ups and food trucks around the Broadway/Perry Street areas with global flavours.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British people value orderly queues; join the back and wait your turn patiently.
Say please and thank you; apologize if you bump into someone; keep noise considerate in public spaces.
Let passengers alight before boarding; stand on the right on escalators to keep left clear for walkers.
Safety
Tipping in Bromley
Ensure a smooth experience
In pubs and restaurants a tip of 10-15% is common if service isn’t included. Round up for good service.
Card payments (contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still accepted in many places, especially markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, outdoor markets, and park events; expect occasional showers but many days are warm and sunny.
Golden foliage in parks and countryside lanes; cooler evenings, ideal for moody photography and cozy pubs.
Short days and potential frost; Christmas lights in Bromley town center and increased indoor activity.
Blooming trees and gardens, making parks and trails particularly photogenic and pleasant for outdoor activities.
Bromley at Night
Hiking in Bromley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Woodland and heathland paths with scenic viewpoints.
Pastoral paths around the historic Down House with country scenery.
Extensive greenspace with streams and easy trails near Beckenham and Bromley area.
Airports
How to reach Bromley by plane.
Close to central London, roughly 40 minutes by public transport from Bromley; quick connections to European cities.
Major international hub about 25-40 miles from Bromley, depending on route; well-connected by rail and road.
South of Bromley; convenient for long-haul flights and intercontinental connections.
Smaller regional airport near Bromley offering general aviation and charter services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families with schools, parks, and family-friendly amenities.
Many commute into London for work and prefer the suburb’s transport links.
Diverse communities contribute to a wide range of cuisines and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and opportunities to watch or play, with Bromley FC and nearby teams in the area.
Cricket clubs and grounds in parks and local clubs for summer play.
Public courts and clubs offer seasonal tennis with lessons and social play.
Several nearby golf courses and driving ranges in the Bromley area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bromley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Bromley eateries offer vegetarian options; look for veggie mains, plant-based burgers, and seasonal salads. Communicate clearly with staff about any dairy or egg restrictions.