Bromley sits at the heart of the Borough and is steeped in history. Walk in the footsteps of one of our most famous residents, HG Wells, through Victorian Bromley with its many Arts and Crafts style buildings. Bromley grew in the 19th century from a rural market town and still has its 800 year old Charter market. Look behind the scenes at the Churchill Theatre, a vast repertory theatre in the style of European opera houses. Discover the Bromley Archives in the Central library. Visit the Old Palace, once the official residence of the Bishops of Rochester.
Starting at the Exhibition 'Historic Bromley Town' taking place on the Lower Mall of The Glades, the tour tells the story of Bromley's phenomenal growth in the late 19thC showing how the town progressed from a rural market town to suburb in about 20 yrs.
various, 1860
A new installation of Bromley’s Battle of Britain lace panel is now on display in the Central library and forms part of Bromley Historic Collections. Join us for a talk on the restoration process and specialist textile conservation.
Founded to house the widows of clergymen, the original building consisted of 20 houses built around a classically-styled quadrangle. Captain Richard Ryder – one of Sir Christopher Wren's surveyors – was in charge of design and construction.
Captain Richard Ryder, 1666
Take a tour around Bromley Archives. The archive store itself is normally closed to the public and visitors will be allowed access within this space and a look at some of the items that we have in our collection.
Aneurin John/Ken Wilson, 1977
Wonderful example of a repertory theatre in style of European opera houses, with vast stage, sub-stage workshops and auditorium seating 785.
Ken Wilson, 1977
We are a newly opened workspace within the Old Town Hall estate - we've created a workspace that blends modern working with the heritage features of the building.
Cartwright Pickard Architects, 2022
A walk around the streets that the young Herbert George Wells knew when he was growing up and wrote about in his autobiography. You will get a flavour of Bromley in its Victorian heyday - all in the words of the author of the 'Time Machine'
Ernest Newton, Berner & son, 1898
Drop in
An Exhibition celebrating the historic character and heritage of Bromley from its origins as a Kentish market town through the Victorian Golden Age to the present time with many buildings in the Arts and Crafts style that can be seen today.