Erith, Greater London

Located in the southeast of London, in the Borough of Bexley, Erith has a rich history and offers a charming residential environment with several amenities and robust transport links that make it an attractive place for both residents and visitors.

Historical Overview of Erith

Erith’s history stretches back to prehistoric times, with archaeological evidence of early habitation found in the area. During the Roman period, Erith was an important port town, and it continued to hold significance as a riverside settlement throughout the centuries. In more recent history, Erith was a major player in the 19th-century industrial expansion and was well known for its docks and warehousing.

Amenities in Erith

Erith offers various local amenities, making it a comfortable place to live and visit. The Riverside Shopping Centre provides a host of retail stores, while the high street has a selection of cafes, restaurants, and traditional pubs.

Erith Leisure Centre is a modern facility offering a swimming pool, sports hall, and gym, while the Erith Playhouse, one of the largest amateur theatres in the Southeast, offers a wide variety of shows throughout the year.

Outdoor amenities include the Erith Riverside Gardens and the Erith Marshes, a protected wildlife site. The Erith Yacht Club is one of the oldest sailing clubs in the area and contributes to the vibrant riverside atmosphere.

Education in Erith

Erith offers several good educational facilities. Primary schools include Northumberland Heath Primary and Peareswood Primary School, while for secondary education, Erith School and King Henry School are well-regarded options. Discover more information.

Famous Residents of Erith

• Sir William Anderson (1834–1898), a philanthropic engineer, resided in Erith from 1864 to 1889, making substantial contributions to the local community.
• Patrick Young Alexander (1867–1943), an aeronautical pioneer, was born in Erith or Belvedere.
• Jazz pianist and band leader, Ronnie Aldrich (1916–1993), was born in Erith.
• Philip Absolon (born 1960), a Stuckist artist, hails from Erith.
• The motor-racing driver, Tony Brise (1952–1975), was born in Erith.
• John Downton (1906–1991), an artist, poet, and philosopher, was born in Erith.
• Bill Jaques (1888–1925), a footballer, was born in Erith.
• Douglas McWhirter (1886–1966), an amateur footballer who was part of the English team that won a gold medal at the 1912 Summer Olympics, was born in Erith.
• Percy Hilder Miles (1878–1922), a professor, violinist, and composer, lived in Erith.
• Journalist and author James Leasor (1923–2007) was born in Erith.
• Northern Ireland international footballer, Kevin Horlock (born 1972), was born in Erith.
• Footballer Dave Martin (born 1985) hails from Erith.
• Footballer Steve Rutter (born 1968) was born in Erith.
• Sam Saunders (born 1983), a footballer for Brentford F.C., was born in Erith.
• Linda Smith (1958–2006), a comedian and writer who made humorous remarks about her hometown Erith, was born there.
• Robert Napper (born 1966), a notorious serial murderer and rapist, was born in Erith.
• Denis Thatcher, the husband of Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, managed the family-owned Atlas Preservatives in Erith until 1965.

Transport Links in Erith

Erith’s transport links are extensive, making it a desirable place for commuters. Erith railway station, on the North Kent Line, offers regular services to London Bridge, Waterloo East, Cannon Street, and Charing Cross. It also provides links to other parts of Kent, including Dartford and Gravesend.

In terms of road transport, Erith is served by several bus routes providing links to areas including Bexleyheath, Dartford, and Bluewater shopping centre – link. The nearby A2 and M25 offer easy access to the wider road network.

Whether for living, working, or visiting, Erith is a town that combines a rich history with excellent modern amenities and robust transport links. Its comfortable blend of residential, commercial, and natural spaces gives it a unique charm and makes it a notable location within the Borough of Bexley, Greater London.