insideKENT Magazine Issue 157 - May 2025 | Page 66

GUIDE
BROMLEY PALACE

Snugly bordering England’ s bustling capital and the leafy brilliance of The Garden of England, Bromley, once forming part of Kent but now a standalone London borough, remains a cherished destination for Kentish explorers thanks to its enticing fusion of old-world county charm and buzzing uniqueness.

Also encompassing many other heritage-rich locations such as Chislehurst, Orpington, Keston and Bickley under its name, Bromley was once recognised for being a Kent chartered market town- an adored attribute of the community that remains strong today- and for its development as an important coaching stop between London and Hastings.
In recent times, following a 21st-century transformation that saw the introduction of urban luxury, redefined architectural landmarks and dining excellence, the borough has become a vibrant destination for exciting cultural adventures. Whether you’ re a fan of the arts looking to pair an unforgettable trip to the theatre with a sublime stay, or are keen to explore hidden Kentish roots and surrounding villages- each with their own story to tell- Bromley awaits you with open arms.
“ Bromley strikes a rare balance- vibrant yet grounded, with a strong community spirit and no shortage of green space, it’ s a town that delivers on quality of life along with local character, everyday charm and space to breathe. I often enjoy a midday walk through Church House Gardens, coffee in hand from one of the many locally owned cafés.”
LORNA STRAWSON, THEATRE DIRECTOR, CHURCHILL THEATRE
Top
BROM LEY
Picks
TOP ARTS
BROMLEY LITTLE THEATRE Passionate about making the magic of theatre accessible to all, this thriving town theatre and its inspiring community outreach programme presents a diverse lineup of quality productions including comedy, drama and music.
TOP DINING
GROUNDED BROTHERS From seriously good coffee and crafted cocktails to heralded evening tasting menus, innovative dishes and lively DJ nights, Bromley’ s Grounded Brothers champions an exceptional dining experience for all occasions.
TOP ACTIVITY
BROMLEY GOLF CENTRE Offering an ideal learning environment that’ s perfect for beginners to the sport, this welcoming golf centre consists of a nine-hole course, a modern 20-bay driving range, two practice greens, a club house and an on-site café.
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