London Borough of Sutton Tourist Information

Location:

The London Borough of Sutton is on the southern edge of Greater London, between The London Borough of Merton and The London Borough of Bromley.

Facts and Figures:

The London Borough of Sutton has a population of almost 180,000 people of whom 90% are White. The borough covers 44km and has a high rate of employment at 67.9% compared to the national average of 60.6%.

The borough is committed to promoting sustainable behavioral change and operates the UK's largest travel programme, encouraging residents to walk, cycle or use public transport.

The London Borough of Sutton has an excellent education system with 80% of students receiving five or more GCSEs at Grades A-C.

Sutton's main claim to fame is that it was the birthplace of one of the earliest nursery schools in England. It was founded by T.B.Walls, who also became famous for his sausages.

In the years before World War II, Sutton was integral in the development of modern day aviation at the former Croydon Airport, which closed in 1957.

Famous names associated with the Borough of Sutton include entertainer Sir Harry Secombe; musician Katie Melua; former Prime Minister Sir John Major and Eddie George, the former Governor of the Bank of England.

Description:

The Borough of Sutton has been inhabited for centuries, but it was only an area of significance after the London to Brighton road was built in the 1750s.

This diverse borough has some very picturesque villages, historic buildings and green parkland, making it a pleasant borough for relaxing and enjoying at a slower pace than the hectic city.

Sutton is bisected by the River Waddle and has 89 parks. They include Beddington Park, Carshalton Park, Cheam Park, Grove Park, Nonsuch Park, Oaks Park and Overton Park. It claims to be one of London's greenest boroughs, with around 1500 acres of parks and open spaces.

The main theatres are the Secombe Theatre, in Sutton, and the Charles Cryer Theatre in Carshalton.

Borough Attractions:

The 16th century Whitehall is in the heart of the Cheam Village conservation area. This black-and-white timbered house was home to the original Cheam School and is the oldest building in the Borough of Sutton. The garden has a medieval well which probably dates back to around 1400AD.

Little Holland House is Grade II listed and features handmade furniture and copperwork by craftsman and owner, Frank Dickinson. It is a wonderful example of the Arts and Crafts Movement.

Carshalton is an idyllic English village, set between two ponds. On the Upper Pond sits the historic 17th century Homeywood House. The surrounding park now has a local Heritage Centre.

Another delightful place to visit in the area is Ham House and Garden, on the banks of the River Thames. Fulham House and the National Archives are also notworthy local attractions.

The magnificent Oaks Park is one of the loveliest places in Sutton Borough for enjoying relaxing walks, along with several other local parks.

Getting There:

The Borough of Sutton has no underground stations. The borough is served by local rail and bus services.