Hayes, Bromley facts for kids

Hayes is a lovely area located within the London Borough of Bromley. Even though it's part of a big city, Hayes still feels a lot like a traditional English village. It has a rich history and many interesting places to explore.

Discovering Hayes: A Village Feel in London

Hayes is known for its green spaces and quiet streets, which give it a unique village atmosphere. It's a great place to live and visit, offering a mix of old traditions and modern life. The area is part of South East London, but it keeps its own special charm.

What Makes Hayes Special?

Hayes has several features that make it stand out. These include its historic buildings, beautiful parks, and a friendly community feel. It's a place where you can enjoy nature and learn about the past.

Green Spaces and Nature

One of the best things about Hayes is its connection to nature. Hayes Common is a large open space perfect for walks, picnics, and exploring. It's home to many different plants and animals, making it a great spot for nature lovers. You can often see people enjoying the outdoors here.

Historic Buildings and Landmarks

Hayes has some very old buildings that tell stories of its past. The Church of Saint Mary the Virgin is a medieval church that has been an important part of the community for centuries. Although it was rebuilt in the 1800s, it still has parts that are very old.

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  The Church of Saint Mary the Virgin in Hayes; a medieval structure, it was substantially rebuilt in the 19th century
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  St Mary the Virgin church, listed at grade II

Another historic spot is the Hayes Farmhouse. This building dates back to the early 1800s and is now a protected building, meaning it's important to keep it safe for the future.

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  The early 19th-century Hayes Farmhouse, now a Grade II listed building

Local Shops and Community Life

Hayes has a charming collection of local shops, especially around Station Approach and Hayes Street. These shops provide everyday needs and help create a strong community spirit. There are also traditional pubs like The New Inn and The George, which are popular gathering spots.

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  Shops on Station Approach
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  Shops on Hayes Street
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  The New Inn pub opposite the train station
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  The George pub

The Hayes Library is another important community hub, offering books, resources, and a quiet place to study or read.

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  Hayes Library
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  Hayes Library

Hayes Through Time: A Brief History

Hayes has a long history, dating back many centuries. It was first recorded in the Domesday Book in 1086, a famous survey of England ordered by William the Conqueror. Back then, it was a small farming settlement.

From Farmland to Suburb

For hundreds of years, Hayes remained a quiet rural area with farms and open land. The arrival of the railway in the late 1800s changed everything. The train station opened in 1882, making it much easier for people to travel to and from London. This led to more houses being built and Hayes slowly becoming a residential area.

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  Hayes train station

Hayes During World War II

During World War II, Hayes played a role in defending London. Anti-aircraft guns were set up in places like Hayes Common to protect the city from enemy planes. This shows how important the area was during that time.

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  A 3-inch gun crew of 303rd Battery, 99th Anti-Aircraft Regiment, Royal Artillery, at Hayes Common in Kent, May 1940. H1387

Getting Around Hayes

Hayes is well-connected, making it easy to reach other parts of London and beyond.

Public Transport Options

The Hayes (Kent) railway station provides direct train services to London Charing Cross and London Cannon Street, making it convenient for commuters and visitors. There are also several bus routes that connect Hayes to nearby towns and areas.

Road Connections

Hayes is located near major roads, allowing for easy car travel. However, many residents enjoy walking and cycling around the area, especially with its pleasant streets and green spaces.

Living in Hayes: Community and Education

Hayes is known for its strong community spirit and good local schools.

Local Schools

The area has several primary and secondary schools that serve the local children. These schools are an important part of the community, providing education and activities for young people.

Community Events

Throughout the year, Hayes often hosts local events and activities that bring people together. These can include village fairs, charity events, and local sports matches, all contributing to the friendly atmosphere.