Docks, hills and creative neighbourhoods
Deptford was home to a royal dockyard founded by Henry VIII, where ships were built and repaired for centuries, and the area is closely linked to Tudor and Stuart naval history. Today Deptford High Street has one of south London's best street markets, and the area has a strong arts scene, partly thanks to Goldsmiths, University of London in New Cross.
To the south, the Horniman Museum and Gardens in Forest Hill is one of London's most enjoyable small museums, with natural history, musical instruments, an aquarium and gardens with views across London. Brockley, Ladywell, Catford and Sydenham have quieter residential streets, hilltop parks and Victorian cemeteries. Lewisham was London Borough of Culture in 2022.
Places worth knowing
- Horniman Museum and Gardens – collections, aquarium and city views.
- Deptford Market and High Street – food and second-hand stalls.
- Hilly Fields – a hilltop park with stone circle and views.
- Brockley and Ladywell Cemeteries – quiet Victorian burial grounds full of wildlife.
Getting in and out
Lewisham station has DLR and Southeastern services. The London Overground serves Brockley, Honor Oak Park, Forest Hill and Sydenham, and Southeastern trains run from Catford, Hither Green and Blackheath. There is no Underground in the borough. The A2, A20 and A21 are the main roads.
Airport transfers from Lewisham
London City Airport is usually closest, via the A2 and Blackwall Tunnel or the A102. Gatwick is reached via the A21 and M25 or across Croydon to the M23. Heathrow is a longer journey across south London. Blackwall Tunnel delays can be significant at peak times, so we plan with them in mind.
See our London City Airport transfers and Gatwick Airport transfers pages.
Pickup tips for this borough
Many streets in Brockley and Forest Hill are steep, narrow and heavily parked. A house number and any notes about parking help. For the Horniman, tell us whether you will be at the London Road entrance or the gardens.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Horniman Museum worth visiting?
Yes. It is a varied museum with an aquarium, musical instruments and gardens with excellent views.
Which airport is closest to Lewisham?
London City is usually the closest, with Gatwick a practical alternative to the south.
Is there a Tube in Lewisham?
No. The borough is served by the DLR, Overground and Southeastern trains.