About Chislehurst
Chislehurst is unique amongst London suburbs not least because of the relationship between the village and its Commons. While Chislehurst Commons are not as extensive as some others, they are more integrated with the village, and it is the integration of buildings and Commons in the heart of Chislehurst that gives it a special character which exists nowhere else in Greater London.
The Trustees of Chislehurst Commons
The Commons were preserved from further enclosure and development by the actions of local residents in the late 19th Century, and the Commons Conservators (now known as the Trustees of Chislehurst Commons) have protected and managed them ever since. Their preservation is only secure as long as the Trustees are able to continue their work, and for this they need funds. Visit their website by clicking here.
History notes, other links, and walks around Chislehurst
It is not at all clear when a village was first established here, but the first mention of Chislehurst is in 973AD. Roy Hopper, a member of the Executive Committee, and noted local historian, has prepared a short history, which you can access by clicking here.
We have also prepared a more detailed review of aspects of Chislehurst past and present especially looking at the last 150 years or so up to the present day. We have included our library of old images. Click here to access this page.
We receive many requests for information from members and others who are researching Chislehurst. We will be publishing some of these, together with our responses. Click here to see Researchers' queries.
We have updated and reproduced Mary Holt's study of the conservation area. Click here to find out more
We have prepared notes of published sources on Chislehurst, and links to web-sites featuring information of relevance to residents. Most of the published sources are available for sale.
There are numerous walks in and around the village and Commons. Click here to find out more, and to see a note of our footpaths.
Chislehurst in the future
Today the village struggles to maintain its integrity in the light of the accelerating growth in population, pressure to build more homes, traffic levels and pollution. Thus far it has managed to keep ahead. Our hope is that new generations of residents will treasure the environment, and ensure that Chislehurst continues to be special for many centuries to come. The Society continues to work to ensure that this will be so.