Lewisham: Welcome to this buzzing hub of action in the heart of London

Have you decided where to stay to get the most out of the 2012 events? Lewisham leads the pack in many areas.

At the very heart of London, Lewisham also sits atop the prime meridian. This isn’t the only thing that marks it out as an international part of the world, however.

Its pairings with parts of cities in France, Germany and Nicaragua have all helped it become a fully-developed part of the city with significant levels of diversity. The vibrancy this brings to the area makes it a fantastic choice for those looking for accommodation in 2012.

Sporting Catford as its administrative centre, the location of Lewisham London Borough Council, the borough was formed in 1965. This formation was the result of a merger between the Metropolitan Borough of Lewisham and that of Deptford, both of which were divisions of the 1900 County of London. Small adjustments to the boundaries of the modern area have occurred, the most significant of which was the transference of the Deptford Royal Docks to the neighbouring borough of Greenwich.

With Bromley to the South, Greenwich to the East and the London Borough of Southwark to the West, Lewisham sits on the banks of the river Thames. Across the water is the Isle of Dogs, which is part of the London Borough of Tower Hamlets. Other than the Thames, the borough is also graced by the waters of Deptford Creek, Pool River and the Rivers Quaggy and Ravensbourne.

Sporting action in Lewisham for summer 2012

Lewisham being right next to Greenwich is a boon for those who count horses as one of their interests. Greenwich Park, one of the main venues of the 2012 games, is playing host to a variety of equestrian events. First of all, there’s the jumping.

Requiring precision, speed and incredible technique, this is one of the fastest and most exciting events of the entire proceedings. Greenwich Park, a Royal Park dating back to 1433 will provide the perfect backdrop for this highly dignified event.

Other horse-related events include dressage and eventing as well as the modern pentathlon. The latter is an event based on the five skills required by a legendary French cavalry officer in his quest to deliver a message. These are the abilities of riding, fencing, shooting, swimming and running. Naturally, not all of these will take place in Greenwich Park, but the riding component promises to be one of the most adrenaline-pumping components.

Also in Greenwich Park will be the Paralympic Equestrian events. Freestyle and championship dressage make up the tests facing these athletes and their steeds. This will no doubt provide a spectacle well worthy of the grand scale of the Summer Olympics.

Best London holiday accommodation

So, why Lewisham?

Lewisham, apart from being a highly central location, enjoys a variety of cultural assets. For example, All Saints Church in Blackheath is a highlight of the area.

This glorious piece of architecture, designed by Benjamin Ferry in the mid-1800s is an excellent example of the period’s building style. Hundreds of tourists flock to the church every year to admire its stately spire and beautiful surroundings. The Citibank Tower, situated in Lewisham proper, is another big draw.

To continue the ecclesiastical theme, the Dietrich Bonhoeffer Church in Sydenham is another famous example of the variety of architecture in the area. Sportier instances include Millwall FC’s stadium ‘The Den’, located in South Bermondsey. In a country which is completely football mad, this is known as one of the most drama-filled stadia in existence. In fact, the TV show ‘Dream Team’ uses the building as a set for their action too.

Other attractions include the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill. This fantastic art-and-design style construction is filled with the personal collection of the Victorian tea trader Frederick John Horniman. This armoury of antiques is made up of a large number of musical instruments as well as a mixture of natural history exhibits and cultural artefacts.

Getting around Lewisham

As Lewisham is situated bang in the middle of the capital, you’ll be able to use all the available transport options.

These include the ubiquitous London Underground as well as a selection of Docklands Light Railway, or DLR, rail services. The nearest main transport nexuses of London Bridge and Waterloo only a short ride away on one of these services.

Of course for international travellers Heathrow and Gatwick are the natural options. These are linked into the capital via various different modes of transport and it’s easy to make your way through to Lewisham. In terms of regional airports, London City and London Biggin Hill are both very convenient options, closer in than the internationals.

In terms of road access to Lewisham from outside London, the best thing to do is head for the M25. Once on this circular track, take the quickest route to the junction with the A20. Zipping along this road into London will provide you with the best options for access to Lewisham.