Downe

Downe is a picturesque village nestled in the London Borough of Bromley, approximately 15 miles southeast of Central London. Surrounded by the breathtaking countryside, Downe offers a rural lifestyle steeped in rich history, making it an ideal location for those seeking escape the hustle and bustle of city living.

The village benefits from its own website to keep villagers updated for local events. https://www.downe-kent.org.uk/.  Downe is renowned for its strong community spirit and friendly atmosphere. The village hosts a variety of local events, including the famous Downe Duck Race which is a must to experience, as is the delightful May Queen celebration. There is a community orchard, historic church ‘St Mary’s’.  Christmas Tree Farm is a great attraction for families where children can feed the animals throughout the year.

https://www.xmastreefarm.co.uk/

Downe is home to Charles Darwin’s family home, Downe House. This beautiful historic property is open to the public via English Heritage.  The house is surrounded by beautiful gardens and is well worth a visit!

https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/home-of-charles-darwin-down-house/

The housing market in Downe features a diverse range of properties to suit various needs.  Many of the properties are historic, showcasing charming period architecture, complete with exposed beams and original fireplaces, reflecting the village’s rich heritage.

Families will appreciate the well-regarded primary school located within the village, making Downe an attractive choice for those with young children. 

https://thepioneeracademy.co.uk/downe-primary/

For secondary education, residents have access to nearby schools in towns like Biggin Hill, Orpington and Sevenoaks, offering a range of academic and extracurricular

There are two village pubs, The George and Dragon and The Queen’s Head.

Nature enthusiasts will love Downe’s wealth of outdoor activities. Surrounded by beautiful countryside, the village offers numerous trails perfect for walking and cycling.  High Elms country park is a short distance from the village.

Transport links

• The mainline station at Orpington (zone 6) approximately 4.5miles away has good parking and offers fast non-stop trains to London Bridge in 15 minutes every half hour.
• Chelsfield station (also zone 6) is 4.3 miles away, also offering links to central London.
• The R8 bus service conveniently runs between the village, Orpington and Biggin Hill.
• The nearest entry point to the M25 is at Junction 4, 6.3 miles away, providing access to the wider motorway network as well as Bluewater, the Dartford Crossing and the M23 for Gatwick Airport.

Why live in Downe?

Living in Downe provides a delightful mix of rural charm, community warmth, and natural beauty.  With its friendly atmosphere, good local village schools, and diverse housing options, Downe is an ideal choice for a place to live. Experience the perfect escape from busy city life while enjoying convenient access to essential amenities and transport links.