Sidcup is a typical example of a 1930s London suburb, but its history goes back a lot further than that.

The word Sidcup is derived from the Anglo-Saxon words set (fold' or flat') and copp (a hill top').

There has been a settlement at Sidcup since 1254, and a small hamlet was properly established on the road from London to Maidstone by the early 17th century.

Sidcup grew during the next two centuries to become a cluster of houses around the Black Horse Inn and the forge at the top of what is now Sidcup Hill.

The area became very popular with the landed gentry and a number of substantial houses were built, including Foots Cray Place, Sidcup Place and Lamorbey. Foots Cray Place was the home of the one-time Chancellor of the Exchequer, Nicholas Vansittart, Lord Bexley.

The coming of the railway in 1866 prompted dramatic growth in Sidcup, and led to more housebuilding along with the development of local amenities and services.

The 1920s and early 1930s saw large-scale suburban development. Roads of affordable, good-quality housing were built to cater for middle-class commuters wanting to move out of London for a better quality of life.

Sidcup suffered extensive damage during the Second World War.

The Sidcup of today is predominantly 1930s housing but some older buildings remain as examples of the area's earlier history.

Sidcup prides itself on offering a busy village atmosphere. Its centre offers a mix of well-known retailers and smaller shops.

The area is enhanced by a major hospital and two colleges.