Petts Wood is a small town located on the borders of south east London and Kent, situated in the London Borough of Bromley. It is 15.4 miles from central London. Here, you will unlock a guide to its enchanting blend of heritage, community, and nature. Welcome to Petts Wood, where every corner tells a story.
Are you considering making Petts Wood your home. Learn about its welcoming neighbourhoods, quality schools, and the sense of community that makes life here so special.
Petts Wood is a vibrant testament to the passage of time, blending rich history with the pulse of modern life (click for more info). Its story is a fascinating journey from ancient woodlands to a beloved suburban community, marked by notable figures and significant landmarks that have left an indelible mark on its character and landscape.
The origins of Petts Wood trace back to its days as part of the dense forests that once dominated Kent. Its name, believed to be derived from the Pett family, prominent shipbuilders who utilised the local timber for constructing naval ships, echoes its historical roots in England’s maritime legacy. The advent of the railway in the 20th century was a pivotal moment, transforming Petts Wood from a secluded woodland into a thriving residential area, attracting people with its charm and accessibility.
The layers of Petts Wood’s history are mirrored in its architecture and cultural life. The town’s buildings, from quaint cottages to modern residences, narrate a story of architectural evolution influenced by historical events and figures. The preservation of green spaces like Petts Wood and Hawkwood [5] (Orpington, Chislehurst BR5 1NZ [6]), now managed by the National Trust, reflects a commitment to conserving natural beauty and heritage. Moreover, cultural events and local traditions continue to weave the past with the present, celebrating Petts Wood’s unique identity and fostering a sense of community.
Petts Wood is a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and engaging activities, making it a perfect destination for families and individuals alike. Here’s a closer look at some of the key attractions and unique local activities that make Petts Wood stand out.
One of Petts Wood’s crown jewels is its array of green spaces. The National Trust’s Petts Wood and Hawkwood, with entrances along Crescent Drive, offer sprawling trails through ancient woodlands, ideal for a family day out or a tranquil walk. Jubilee Country Park [7], accessible via Southborough Lane [8], is another gem, providing diverse landscapes for exploration and wildlife spotting.
Petts Wood is renowned for its engaging community events, drawing both locals and visitors into its communal embrace. The annual Petts Wood May Fair [9], typically held in the Willett Recreation Ground, is a highlight, featuring stalls, games, and performances that capture the town’s community spirit.
A standout event in the local calendar is Petts Wood Calling [10], previously known as Petts Woodstock. This music festival transforms Petts Wood into a vibrant concert venue, showcasing local bands and musicians in an atmosphere reminiscent of the iconic Woodstock. It’s a celebration of music, community, and the arts (discover here), held in various locations around the town, including outdoor spaces and venues like Petts Wood Memorial Hall on Petts Wood Road.
Petts Wood’s calendar is dotted with events that reflect its diverse and inclusive culture. The Petts Wood May Fair and Petts Wood Calling are just the tip of the iceberg. Throughout the year, residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of festivals and markets that showcase local crafts, cuisine, and talents, fostering a strong sense of community pride.
A central hub for these cultural gatherings is the Petts Wood Memorial Hall [11]. Located at 200 Petts Wood Rd, Petts Wood, Orpington BR5 1LA, this iconic venue hosts a myriad of events, from art exhibitions and music concerts to community meetings and private celebrations. Its presence as a community centre is a testament to the town’s dedication to providing spaces that encourage cultural expression and communal engagement.
Petts Wood is not just a haven for nature lovers and history buffs; it’s also a paradise for shoppers and food enthusiasts. With its charming shopping districts and diverse culinary offerings, this town caters to every taste and preference, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely day out or a delightful evening.
The heart of Petts Wood’s shopping experience beats in Queensway [12] and Station Square [13], where a variety of shops offer everything from everyday essentials to unique gifts and specialty items. These shopping areas, with their mix of independent boutiques and well-known brands, provide a cosy, community-focused alternative to the hustle and bustle of big city malls. Whether you’re looking for the latest fashion, a perfect piece of jewellery, or handcrafted home decor, you’ll find it in the welcoming storefronts of Petts Wood.
Petts Wood’s dining scene is a testament to its diversity and culinary creativity. For those who appreciate Italian cuisine, Cyprianis [14] on Station Square offers a menu that combines traditional flavours with a modern twist, all in a friendly and elegant setting. Indian food lovers will relish the opportunity to dine at Indian Essence by Atul Kochhar [15], located on Fairway, where innovative dishes bring the best of contemporary Indian cuisine to Petts Wood.
Not to be overlooked, The Daylight Inn [16], which gets its name from William Willett and Daylight Saving Time, situated on Station Square, provides a quintessentially British pub experience. It’s a place where locals and visitors alike can enjoy classic dishes, a wide selection of beverages, and the warm, convivial atmosphere that British pubs are famous for.
Petts Wood is a sanctuary for those who cherish the outdoors and active living. With its lush parks, extensive trails, and diverse recreational activities, the town offers endless opportunities for exploration and enjoyment, catering to all ages and interests.
Petts Wood is home to a vibrant community of sports clubs and recreational groups, ensuring that there’s always something to do, no matter your interests or abilities.
Petts Wood Runners: For those who prefer a more fast-paced activity, Petts Wood Runners caters to joggers and runners of all levels. From casual evening runs to more competitive races, this club is all about promoting health, endurance, and camaraderie among its members.
Petts Wood is well-served by public transportation, ensuring smooth travel to and from the area. The Petts Wood railway station [21], located centrally in the town, is a key hub with frequent services connecting to London Victoria, Charing Cross, and Cannon Street. This makes commuting to the heart of London easy and convenient, with journeys taking as little as 25 minutes. Additionally, several bus routes run through Petts Wood, providing reliable access to local areas and further afield, enhancing the town’s connectivity.
The town’s proximity to major roads like the A20 and M25 means that driving to and from Petts Wood is straightforward, offering quick routes to London, as well as to the coastal towns and countryside of Kent and Sussex. This ease of access opens up a wealth of opportunities for day trips and exploration, from the historic sights of Greenwich to the natural beauty of the Kent Downs AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty).
Welham Jones Funerals and Memorials (learn here) is a family-run funeral director serving West Kent and South East London, including Petts Wood. With over 25 years of experience, we are committed to providing compassionate and professional funeral services tailored to the unique needs of each family.
We understand that every individual is unique, and so should be their farewell. Our team works closely with families in Petts Wood to create personalised funeral services that reflect the life and personality of their loved ones. This includes assistance with funeral arrangements, selection of coffins and caskets, and organising memorials and tributes.
Planning ahead can provide peace of mind. We offer pre-paid funeral plans to residents of Petts Wood, allowing individuals to outline their wishes and relieve their families of financial and decision-making burdens during a difficult time.
Our commitment to dignity and respect continues after death. We have fully equipped mortuary facilities and experienced staff who ensure that your loved ones are cared for with the utmost professionalism.
For families in Petts Wood dealing with the loss of a loved one abroad, our repatriation services facilitate the return of the deceased to the UK or their home country, handling all necessary arrangements to ease the family’s burden.
To honour and remember your loved ones, we offer a range of memorials and items of remembrance, including personalised tribute gifts, urns, and plaques, helping families in Petts Wood create lasting memories.
At Welham Jones, we are dedicated to supporting the Petts Wood community with compassionate and personalised funeral services, ensuring that each farewell is meaningful and respectful.
Start in Petts Wood and head east on Petts Wood Road towards Crossway for 0.5 miles. At the roundabout, continue straight onto Poverest Road and drive for 0.9 miles.
Turn right onto Cray Avenue/A224 and continue for 1.8 miles. Next, turn right onto The Highway and drive for 0.5 miles. Turn right onto Warren Road and then left onto The Meadway. Your destination, Welham Jones Funerals & Memorials, will be on the left.
[1] Geraint Evans Blue Plaque location on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/5bnBBaeg2CTzsSLi8
[2] “Sir Geraint Evans” article on the BBC Wales website https://www.bbc.co.uk/wales/music/sites/geraint-evans/
[3] “The Waste of Daylight” article published under the Science and Technology category, on the National Museums Scotland website https://www.nms.ac.uk/explore-our-collections/stories/science-and-technology/the-waste-of-daylight/
[4] “Charles De Gaulle” published on the Élysée, the official website of the President of France https://www.elysee.fr/en/charles-de-gaulle
[5] “Petts Wood and Hawkwood” on the National Trust website https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/kent/petts-wood-and-hawkwood
[6] Petts Wood and Hawkwood on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/VqT86k4U8Dg1dBGm7
[7] Jubilee Country Park Local Nature Reserve on the London Borough of Bromley website https://www.bromley.gov.uk/nature-reserves/jubilee-country-park-local-nature-reserve
[8] Jubilee Country Park car park access from Petts Wood on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/bFEGhrVh6n5TCb2s9
[9] Petts Wood May Fayre on Facebook business page https://www.facebook.com/newpettswoodmayfayre/
[10] Petts Wood Calling website https://www.pettswoodcalling.com/
[11] Petts Wood Memorial Hall on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZvAQ2LfZs4fPdgzE7
[12] Queensway, Petts Wood, on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/NUhCXkxCQjasvRjm7
[13] Station Square, Petts Wood, on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/42ATNtsAhMd1dtym6
[14] Cyprianis, Petts Wood https://maps.app.goo.gl/pYjKDiiH72tawx6A6
[15] Indian Essence by Atul Kochhar, Petts Wood https://maps.app.goo.gl/UEXMRemJ4LGbfAXE7
[16] The Daylight Inn, Petts Wood, https://maps.app.goo.gl/arsvTWFxA6dSTcv38
[17] Petts Wood Recreation Ground on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/H4mjGC5XbbtKgy88A
[18] Willet Recreation Ground on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/o7zWni9aCFJUwnvz5
[19] Petts Wood Bowling Club on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/uN3cabC39A1N9bMo9
[20] Petts Wood Cricket Club on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/mR8u6PRJjfooLCkbA
[21] Petts Wood railway station on Google Maps https://maps.app.goo.gl/pAQLRjmvrkZ5FN9h7
Being a funeral director is one of the oldest professions there is – but it takes a very special person to be a good funeral director. Expert advice from a local, family run funeral directors’ serving West Kent and Southeast London.
