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London Borough Of Bexley

Attractions and Places To See around the London Borough Of Bexley - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around the London Borough Of Bexley include historical landmarks, expansive natural spaces, and significant cultural sites. Located in southeastern Greater London, the borough features ancient woodlands, river valleys, and marshlands along the Thames. Visitors can explore a diverse landscape that combines historical architecture with varied natural environments. The area offers a range of points of interest for outdoor exploration.

Best attractions and places to see around the London Borough Of Bexley

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Last updated: May 11, 2026

Lesnes Abbey Ruins

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Lesnes Abbey offers the visitor beautiful abbey ruins, woodland and heathland (particularly noted for the bluebell and daffodil displays in season), an arboretum and more. There are 3 main trails around the grounds.

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Crossness Pumping Station

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The Crossness Pumping Station is a former sewage pumping station designed by Sir Joseph Bazalgette and architect Charles Henry Driver. Constructed between 1859 and 1865 by William Webster, as part …

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Erith Saltings Salt Marsh

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The Erith Saltings is an area of salt marshes alongside the Thames and is actually the last remaining such marsh on the river. There's a footpath running alongside the water …

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Confluence of the River Darent and the Thames

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Any number of footpaths can bring you to the confluence of the Rivers Darent and Thames – it's quite a remarkable place. From here, you can see the impressive Darent …

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Five Arches Bridge

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Originally part of the Foots Cray Place gardens designed by Capability Brown. The bridge is a weir, and many fish including Brown Trout and Carp swim in the river nearby.

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Crayford Marshes

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The Crayford marshes are an expansive seasonal wetland alongside the River Darent. Its pastureland is divided by ditches and reeds, making it quite impressive to see.

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Bexley Woods

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Good place to mess around on you mtb if you are a local. Nice little woods for short vist.

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Amazing place by the water, just remember to report any fly tipped rubbish!

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Geese on The Ridgeway, Thamesmead

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The Ridgeway in Thamesmead offers a pleasant cycle route with a mix of urban and green spaces along the way. The path is relatively flat and passes through areas of parkland alongside the Thames.

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Crossness Sludge Incinerator

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A strange idea to think of a sewage works as a highlight but this is a great example of brutalist architecture. Jutting out from the river, I can think of …

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Popular around London Borough Of Bexley

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Road Cycling Routes around the London Borough Of Bexley

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Troy Mariyanayagam
March 28, 2026, Bexley Woods

Bexley Woods is a peaceful stretch of ancient woodland in South East London, offering a welcome change of scenery with its shady paths, mature trees, and quiet natural feel. It is a lovely place to walk, especially as part of a longer route, and adds a more secluded woodland character to the surrounding green spaces.

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Towards the end of the single track, the trail gets even rockier. Great views.

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One of the sights, and smells, of the Thames Path. At the interchange with the end of the Ridgeway. Crossness Pumping Station in Abbey Wood is a Grade 1 Listed building built by Sir Joseph Bazalgette for London's sewage system. Opened in 1865.

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The beautiful ruins beneath the brutal woods.

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Great views. The track itself is quite rocky.

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Lucille M
February 2, 2025, Lesnes Abbey Ruins

Come early to avoid the crowds and enjoy this tranquil place for yourself.

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Quite sad, dirty and industrial unfortunately. A shame because you could imagine it looking very beautiful with the right level of care

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The Ridgeway in Thamesmead offers a pleasant cycle route with a mix of urban and green spaces along the way. The path is relatively flat and passes through areas of parkland alongside the Thames.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore in the London Borough of Bexley?

The borough is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of the 12th-century Lesnes Abbey Ruins, a scheduled ancient monument. Another significant site is the Crossness Pumping Station, a remarkable Victorian engineering marvel known as the 'Cathedral of Sewage'. Other notable historical places include Hall Place and Gardens, a 16th-century country house, and Red House, the iconic Arts and Crafts home of William Morris.

Where can I find natural spaces and woodlands for walking in Bexley?

The London Borough of Bexley offers several beautiful natural spaces. Lesnes Abbey Woods is an 88-hectare ancient woodland and Local Nature Reserve, featuring heathland and an arboretum. Foots Cray Meadows is the largest open space in the borough, with the River Cray flowing through it. You can also explore Crayford Marshes and Erith Saltings, vital habitats along the Thames, or Bexley Park Woods, an ancient hornbeam coppice woodland.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the London Borough of Bexley?

Yes, there are several family-friendly options. Lesnes Abbey Ruins and its surrounding woods offer trails and a fossil pit. Danson Park features a boating lake, rose gardens, and a 17th-century watermill, with additional outdoor activities available through Danson Park Adventures. The Five Arches Bridge area is great for spotting water birds and fish.

What kind of wildlife can I spot in the area?

The natural areas in Bexley are home to diverse wildlife. At Crayford Marshes and Erith Saltings, you might spot water voles and various bird species. Foots Cray Meadows, with the River Cray, is excellent for observing water birds and fish. Lesnes Abbey Woods is a Local Nature Reserve, and Bexley Woods also supports diverse flora and fauna.

Are there walking or hiking trails available near these attractions?

Absolutely! The London Borough of Bexley has numerous walking and hiking opportunities. For detailed routes, you can explore the Hiking around the London Borough Of Bexley guide. Popular options include circular routes in Lesnes Abbey Woods, trails through Foots Cray Meadows, and longer walks connecting Erith Riverside Gardens to Crayford Marshes.

Can I go cycling in the London Borough of Bexley?

Yes, the borough offers various cycling routes. You can find detailed options in the Road Cycling Routes around the London Borough Of Bexley guide. The Ridgeway in Thamesmead provides a pleasant, relatively flat cycle route through urban and green spaces. Routes also extend to historical sites like Crossness Pumping Station.

When is the best time to visit the natural areas in Bexley?

Spring is particularly beautiful for visiting natural areas like Lesnes Abbey Woods, which is known for its stunning bluebell and daffodil displays. However, many parks and woodlands offer pleasant walking conditions year-round, with autumn providing vibrant foliage and summer being ideal for picnics and outdoor activities.

What are some unique architectural or engineering landmarks to visit?

Beyond historical houses, the borough features unique landmarks like the Crossness Pumping Station, an ornate Victorian masterpiece. The Five Arches Bridge over the River Cray is another picturesque structure with historical significance. The Dartford Creek Barrier and Erith Marshes also offer views of significant engineering works.

Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in the London Borough of Bexley?

Yes, Lesnes Abbey Ruins is noted as being wheelchair accessible, allowing visitors to explore the abbey grounds and some of the surrounding parkland. It's always advisable to check specific accessibility details with individual venues before your visit for the most up-to-date information.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in the London Borough of Bexley?

Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The serene atmosphere of places like Lesnes Abbey Ruins and the picturesque views from the Dartford Creek Barrier and Erith Marshes are often highlighted. The opportunity to observe wildlife and enjoy peaceful walks along the River Cray, especially near the Five Arches Bridge, is also a popular draw.

Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots worth discovering?

Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the Gothic Bath House, an 18th-century structure that can be visited by appointment for a unique historical experience. The Exchange Erith, located in Erith's Old Library, is a community-led organization offering new programs and activities, providing a glimpse into local culture.

What are some good options for a rainy day in Bexley?

On a rainy day, you can explore indoor historical sites like Hall Place and Gardens, which hosts various exhibitions. Red House, the National Trust property, offers a fascinating look into the Arts and Crafts movement. The Crossness Pumping Station also offers guided tours, providing shelter while you marvel at Victorian engineering.

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Road Cycling Routes around the London Borough Of Bexley

Most popular attractions around the London Borough Of Bexley

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