Located in the centre of the Southeast London Borough of Lewisham, Deptford has risen to prominence as an area that has become increasingly unique and interesting.
It is very well connected with good transport links to financial centres such as London Bridge and Canary Wharf. It is also home to the Anthology Deptford Foundry which is a building project that is still under construction near Arklow Road. The rich history of the area as a metal foundry is said to be the main inspiration for the architecture. The full project will feature a rejuvenation of this historic area with a collection of “276 homes” fit with ensuites and state of the art built-in appliances such as ovens. The finished result will also feature studio spaces for “450 artists, crafters, designers and makers” and a large communal garden which will enhance the beauty of the surroundings.
Deptford is also home to a number of esteemed educational institutions ranging from nurseries to universities. Goldsmiths University has world-leading degrees in the arts and humanities while the Trinity Laban is Britain’s only conservatoire of music and contemporary dance.
Coming to Deptford will also expose you a number of parks and green spaces. You can saunter the fields of Greenwich Park with good views of the London landscape or cycle in peace through Blackheath, one of the largest commons in Greater London.
Deptford is also considered to be a very artistic hotspot. The many musicians, artists, fashion designers, photo galleries and record shops all contribute toward a very rich cultural experience of the area. The annual Deptford X Contemporary Arts Festival is also a statement of Deptford’s creativity as the ten-day event celebrates modern artwork attempting to engage the public in unexpected and innovative ways.
In Deptford High Street you will also find an exceptional range of diverse and delightful cuisine. Marcella, an Italian restaurant is an example of the many foreign cultures and food that have woven itself into itself into the unique identity of Deptford. The restaurant is characterised by “The Art of Simplicity”. An emphasis is placed on the finest Italian and British produce with pasta cooked on the same day only being used for the dishes. Their menu features a selection of authentic Italian delicacies such as the exquisite Pasta Al Pomodoro alongside a variety of fine Italian wine like the divine Ponte Pietra and the flavoursome Chardonnay Crevoglio.
All of these great advancements suggests how Deptford is becoming a better area and the great thing the area has can only continue.
By Jesse Babudoh, City and Islington College
