Blackheath's Hidden Gems

Everyone knows Greenwich. But tucked just to the south, across the heath where peasants once rallied and kings once camped, lies a village that many Londoners have never properly explored. Blackheath is one of the capital's great hidden gems in itself — and within it, a constellation of smaller treasures waiting to be discovered.

1. Jack Cade's Cavern

Artistic depiction of Blackheath Caverns, circa 1833. Source: Wikimedia Commons (public domain).

Yes, there are caves under Blackheath. Jack Cade's Cavern is a subterranean chamber extending several hundred feet underground, with references dating back to at least 1677. Named after the rebel leader who led a revolt against the Crown in 1450, the caves were once a tourist attraction where south Londoners would descend to party underground. They were eventually sealed after a tragic accident in the mid-20th century, but the mystery of what lies beneath the heath endures. You can read more about the secret caves of Blackheath on Londonist.

2. The Bookshop on the Heath

The Bookshop on the Heath, on the corner of Tranquil Vale and Royal Parade. Source: bookshopontheheath.co.uk.

Pungently turquoise and unapologetically old school, The Bookshop on the Heath is a second-hand bookshop that feels like it has been transported from another century. Spilling with books, maps, posters and collectables, it's the kind of place where you go in for a browse and emerge an hour later with a first edition you didn't know you needed. Have a chat with the bookkeeper — they know where every title lives.

3. The Heath Itself

Blackheath Common. Source: Geograph.org.uk via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA).

It sounds obvious, but Blackheath Common is one of London's great open spaces — 211 acres of heathland that's perfect for kite flying, contemplative walks, and lazy summer picnics. It's also steeped in history: it's where Wat Tyler's Peasants' Revolt gathered in 1381, where Jack Cade's rebellion rallied in 1450, and home to England's first golf club. The rumour that the name comes from plague burials is, sadly, a myth — but it adds to the atmosphere.

4. All Saints Church

All Saints Church on Blackheath Common. Source: Wikimedia Commons (photo by Ethan Doyle, 2020, CC BY-SA).

Built in 1857 and designed by George Alexander, All Saints Church stands proudly on the edge of the heath. This Grade II listed building is a staple of the village, with weekly Mass, Evensongs and recitals. Whether you're religious or not, the architecture and the community spirit make it well worth a peek — and the views across the heath from the churchyard are spectacular.

5. Madeleine's Creperie

Waffles from Madeleine's Creperie. Source: madeleinescreperie.com.

There are crepes, and then there are Madeleine's crepes. The award-winning cafe and gelato shop has a story that starts in 1901 on the north coast of France, where a young girl named Madeleine served crepe creations to local fishermen. Over a century later, the tradition continues with hungry Londoners. After a long walk on the heath, you've earned one.

6. Blackheath Halls

Blackheath Halls, a Grade II-listed concert venue. Source: blackheathhalls.com.

One of South East London's premier concert venues, Blackheath Halls is a Grade II-listed building presenting a year-round programme of classical, jazz, folk, comedy and family performances. Run by Trinity Laban, it's an accessible, family-friendly venue with a cafe and licensed bar. It's the kind of place where you can catch a world-class recital on a Saturday night and a community singalong on a Tuesday morning.

7. The Sunday Farmers' Market

Blackheath Farmers' Market, voted Best Market in Lewisham 2025. Source: lfm.org.uk.

If you want to see Blackheath come to life, visit the Sunday Farmers' Market. A weekly affair for South East London locals, it's stuffed with the best organic produce, seasonal goods and artisanal food. Most of the customers are on first-name terms with the farmers, and there's something about supporting local that makes you feel genuinely connected to the city.

8. Oxleas Wood

Shooters Hill Wood from the Cinder Path. Source: Friends of Oxleas Woodlands.

A short walk from Blackheath, Oxleas Wood is one of London's most ancient woodlands, with miles of walking trails through the trees and hidden surprises like rope swings and secret clearings. It's a wonderful escape from the village if you want to trade Georgian charm for deep green woodland.

Discover More

Blackheath rewards the curious. Wander the three parades — Tranquil Vale, Montpelier Vale and Royal Parade — and you'll find independent boutiques, artisanal coffee shops and historic pubs, all set against the backdrop of one of London's wildest open spaces. Use our interactive map to plan your own hidden gem trail, or browse our directory to find more local treasures.