This part of South East London has always been a draw because of its green space – but it’s fast becoming a destination to eat and meet as well

Posted on 24 September 2025

Beckenham is one of South East London’s most desirable areas. For those who live and work in the area, it’s a rare combination of green open space, rich heritage and destination places to eat and drink. The jewel in its crown is Beckenham Place Park, wrapped around a Georgian mansion, which has undergone significant regeneration in recent years.

The restoration, led by the London Borough of Lewisham and supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, BIG Lottery and the Mayor of London, started almost a decade ago. The buildings in the park had fallen into disrepair and the golf course that occupied much of the land was no longer attracting players. The aim was a bold new vision to introduce improved visitor facilities, renovate historic buildings and restore the Georgian landscape. ‘The restoration of Beckenham Place Park will create a significant open space, venue and leisure facility that genuinely impacts the quality of life of thousands of residents,’ said the Council at the time.

Hindwoods has let several buildings to businesses that are helping to transform the park and areas nearby into a thriving destination. One of these is Homestead Café, an important anchor in the park’s refurbished Georgian stable block. ‘We did the original letting to the team at the Homestead Café, and we have another retail unit in the stable block currently under offer,’ said Kevin Bright at Hindwoods. ‘Our role is to support the successful transition of these historic structures into vibrant commercial spaces that support the park’s community-focused vision.’

Since it opened in 2019, Homestead Café has become a destination for families, dog walkers, fitness enthusiasts, and those who simply want a good cup of coffee and a place to meet friends. It’s surrounded by other retail outlets that together serve as a magnet for visitors to the park and gardens. 

The stables are not the only place in Beckenham to get a new lease of life. The nearby Foxgrove Club was once the golf club’s hub and later served as Foxgrove Social Club. But the building was disused after the golf course closed in 2017. Planning permission has been granted to change the Club entrance into a restaurant. ‘It means that one of Beckenham’s existing restaurants now has a second site,’ said Kevin, whose team at Hindwoods let the site. 

El Molino tapas bar and restaurant has been part of Beckenham for almost 25 years and consistently rates on food sites as a top destination. ‘Our role is about more than letting property,’ said Kevin. ‘Where we can we help ensure local businesses expand in a sustainable way, and – in this case – by doing so we help expand the choice for residents about where to eat and meet, and in turn help make the local community even better.’ 

In addition to food, leisure and greenery, Beckenham also benefits from excellent transport links. This means new restaurant openings and the park are easy destinations for visitors, bringing energy and wealth to the area: ‘It’s a great place to live, visit, and invest,’ said Kevin.