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Call For Archaeological Survey As Ancient Artefacts Uncovered In Beckenham Place Park

Beckenham’s rich history may be even older than previously thought, as locals are calling for a full archaeological survey of Beckenham Place Park following a series of “exciting” discoveries—some dating back over 1,600 years.

The 235-acre park, a treasured green space for Beckenham and its surrounding areas, has yielded a number of significant historical finds in recent months. Local historian and landscape gardener Rod Reed is urging Lewisham Council to conduct a thorough survey after dog walkers and mudlarkers uncovered artefacts that hint at Roman and Elizabethan settlements in the area.

Among the finds was a German-produced Bartmann jug from 1580, suggesting the possibility of an Elizabethan mansion once standing on the site. Even older discoveries include a Roman ridge tile, which could indicate the presence of a Roman bathhouse or villa, along with a Roman coin, further strengthening the case for Beckenham’s deep-rooted connections to early settlements.

Historically, part of a Roman road connecting London to Lewes ran through Beckenham, and these new finds suggest that settlements may have flourished along the River Ravensbourne. However, a 2017 archaeological report noted a “real dearth” of evidence for Roman and early medieval settlements in the Beckenham and Bromley areas, leaving a gap in our understanding of the town’s past.

Beckenham Place Park underwent a £4.7 million restoration in 2019, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, introducing a wild swimming lake and educational facilities. Despite some initial archaeological digs around the mansion, lake, and gardens, Rod and other campaigners feel that much of the park’s historical significance remains unexplored.

Rod, along with other locals, is pushing for a radar survey of the entire park and a scientific exploration of the ancient woodland, arguing that a proper archaeological study could generate more interest in Beckenham’s heritage and even secure further funding for future projects.

Lewisham Council responded by stating that archaeological research has been an important part of their restoration work, and they will be engaging with Mr. Reed to learn more about these recent discoveries.

With Beckenham’s history potentially stretching further back than previously believed, there is growing support for a deeper dive into the park’s past—one that could rewrite the story of the area’s historical significance.

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Catherine

Image: Lewisham Council / Rod Reed

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