Explore the fascinating history and meanings behind the names of Chislehurst’s beloved pubs
Chislehurst: You know how pubs often have names that tell a story? Like The Old Jail in Bromley, which used to be a stop for prisoners heading to London. Pretty cool, right?
But not every pub name is that straightforward. Sometimes, the reasons behind the names can get a bit murky. Over the years, some pubs have changed names, and the meanings have shifted too.
So, kicking off a new series about the stories behind local pub names, we’re starting in Chislehurst, a historic area in Bromley. This place is famous for its caves that date back to the 13th century and has 11 pubs to check out.
The Cockpit
This award-winning pub, which snagged the title of Best Bromley Pub at the CAMRA Awards 2023, is a favorite hangout. It’s got rustic seating and lovely flowers everywhere.
Located on Chislehurst Common, it’s said to have gotten its name from being near a bomb crater from World War I. But according to authors Darrell Surgeon and Roy Hopper, it might actually come from an ancient cockpit used for cockfighting back in the medieval days—though that practice is long gone.
The Bull’s Head
On Royal Parade, you’ll find The Bull’s Head, a Grade II listed pub that dates back to the 1750s. It replaced an even older inn with the same name.
The name comes from the Neville family, who were the Lords of the Manor of Chislehurst. Their crest featured a bull’s head, which is pretty neat!
The Crown
This pub is a classic, around for 150 years. It got its name from an old coaching inn that used to be on Crown Road before the current building took its place in 1874.
The original inn was there since 1832, so it’s got some history behind it!
The Bickley Arms
Originally called the Station Masters Hotel, this pub was renamed The Bickley Arms in 1891. It was a popular spot because it was so close to Chislehurst Caves.
People loved visiting and staying here, making it a local favorite.
The Gordon Arms
The Gordon Arms is named after General Charles Gordon, who was a hero in The Crimean War. The current building, designed in a mock Tudor style, dates back to the 1930s.
Before this pub, there was a beer house on the same site from the 1860s, also named after General Gordon. Talk about a legacy!
