Saturday, February 2, 2013

Life in Coombe

By Mark Frederic


Leading to the Thames, inside the Royal district of Kingston in Greater London, England, is the area of Coombe. It is located in the eastern part of the central city and previously belonged to the Metropolitan area of Malden and Coombe before the local authority re-alignment in 1965. The Coombe house, which has since been brought down, was its central point. Along its boundaries are Richmond Park to the north, Wimbledon Common to the east as well as four other districts which border Kingston known as Merton, Sutton, Wandsworth and Richmond.

The Kingston Area

Barely 12 miles from central London is Kingston, leading to Thames, a busy neighbourhood boasting of affluent, edifying customs and shopping culture, second only to London. Early Saxon Kings were crowned in this antique municipality and it is the second tiniest London municipality after the City of London. It stands out as one of the four Royal Borough in England and Wales.

Social Life

The area abounds with holiday resources, hotels and fast food places making it the ultimate place for many people. The three mile charming stretch along the River Thames heading to Hampton Court and Richmond, is ideal for hiking, biking, jogging, as well as loosening up over the weekend, at the riverbank bars and hotels.

Coombe Warren Woods

A popular area for hounding and community fairs, this natural forest was on Coombe Hill. The famous Jerry Abershaw, fondly referred to as, "The Coombe Wood Highwayman", was a common figure at the "Bald Face Stag" tavern, and lived in the forest. The semaphore station in Warren, a component of the semaphore line from London to Portsmouth, was opened in 1822 by the army. It has since vanished, with only the Telegraph cottage remaining. The station is now completely enclosed by the Coombe Hill estate and Coombe wood Golf course. This estate is accessed via Coombe Hill road and Greenwood Park and Devey Close, making house prices run into millions.

Hogsmill Vale

This river snakes down its basin via the town, green paths and open pasture, en-route to the Thames in Kingston. It passes under the Clattern Bridge, by Kingston's High street, which is one of the most ancient bridges in Southern England.

Canbury Gardens

A stones throw away from Kingston town centre is this open, green field in the middle of River Thames and Lower Ham Road. It is popular with picnic lovers and fishing enthusiast who enjoy its expansive riverbank paths and green gardens.

Richmond Park Area

This park is said to be three times the size of New York's central park and is the biggest of London's Royal Parks. Its the second largest city walled park having been sanctioned by Charles I in 1637,who allowed only walkers access to it. Kingston gate along the district borders is the most straightforward access for locals. This park had over 600 deer as well as ample wildlife.

Bushy Park Area

This famous recreational area is located, north of Hampton Court Palace.




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