South east London is home to some of the UK's best attractions - but there are things from its past that locals want back.
News Shopper readers were recently asked about the "one place" they wish could be revived. With more than 400 responses, numerous suggestions were given, each reflecting a unique personal memory from a bygone era.
Among the flood of comments, it was evident that markets held a special place in readers' hearts. Gerry Smith spoke fondly of the "The east Lane market of the 60s and 70s" and John Perry chimed in, reminiscing about the years when his parents ran a fish stall down the lane.
Pat Swann went beyond a specific location, expressing a collective yearning for "In fact ALL of South East London and its people as it was years ago…."
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Steve Phillips and Daryll Ward were among several who cited the charm of a "Proper old Kent road pub crawl."
Daryll in particular lamented how there would be "now be lucky to find more than a couple along that great historical Road."
Crystal Palace's one o’clock club, which was a drop-in play facility for under 5s, also featured in readers' recollections. Lucy Ellenthorpe spoke of the importance of the club in combatting isolation among young parents.
Jane Holland listed several locations that were integral to her vibrant social life, including the "The Old Den and Millwall Market", "The Crown & Anchor Pub New Cross", and the various pubs and clubs on Old Kent Road.
Several readers pinpointed specific venues that encapsulated their memories. Others mentioned Goddards pie mash, and Manze’s in Deptford High Street.
Peter Adams reminisced about the Ladywell Baths from the 1960s, recalling its Olympic-size pool and diving boards.
The Lewisham Shopping Centre, exuding the charm of yesteryears, was another place fondly remembered. The social landscape described by Julie Lennard-Hanratty was that of a tightly knit community.
She painted a picture of Deptford in the 70s, 80s, and early 90s where "everyone looked out for each other", mentioning The Deptford arms, the crypt, Lewisham boys club, and Albany Empire among others.
Others reminisced about nightspots like the Crusaders club, Amersham Arms, SE8 club, and Greenwich Stars.
Mention was made not just made of the shops and clubs but of whole streets that have undergone a transformation over time. Marjorie Jones spoke about Wells Park Road before the new housing estate, describing it as "like a village."
The theme of nostalgia continued to persist, with Steve Amis and others recalling Goddards on Deptford High Street.
Even the supermarkets of the past like Safeways, inspired fond memories.
The stories shared illustrate how closely London's changing landscape intertwines with personal memories, cementing its worth far beyond the bricks and mortar from which it is constructed.
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