Kennington is one of the most popular living destinations in London and it has earned this reputation. It is mostly in Central London, with some of it classified as being in South London. Accordingly, it is part of the Boroughs of Lambeth and Southwark. It is south east of Charing Cross and its postcode district is SE11, though a small part falls into the SE17, SE1, SW8 and SW9 areas. The area has no official boundaries but it is bordered by Lambeth North and Waterloo in the north, Camberwell and Walworth in the east, Stockwell and Clapham in the south and Vauxhall in the west. Kennington is a multi-ethnic area with people of many different origins living here.
Kennington's early history suggests that it may have been an important gathering place because of the discovery of burial mounds. In the Domesday Book Kennington was held by a goldsmith. King Harold was crowned here in 1041, King Henry III held court here and the 1232 Parliament was conducted in the area. Prince Edward built a royal palace here in the 14th century. The palace was eventually torn down and the materials were used for the Palace of Whitehall. The manor still exists today under the ownership of the Prince of Wales.
When Westminster Bride was completed in 1750 the area began to develop. Several houses were constructed in the 1770s and what is now known as Cleaver Square was laid out in 1788. More houses were built in the 1790s, as was the first semaphore station. In the early 19th century Kennington was turning into a suburb with impressive terraced housing. St. Mark's Church was built in 1824 and the Royal Surrey Gardens opened in 1831. Many more homes and institutions were created around this time. The prime location of Kennington has attracted many people to live here and luxury flats have been unlit to accommodate them. There are also council estates in the area meaning there are homes of varying prices.
Kennington Park is a major location in the area. Created in 1852 under architect James Pennethorne. It has been home to many gatherings and marches of varying nature. An assortment of sports and events are held here regularly. The Oval is the home ground for the Cricket club of Surrey County and holds several key cricket games throughout the year. The Imperial War Museum was founded in 1917. There are a wide range of shops and restaurants around Kennington Road, Kennington Lane and Kennington Cross. The area is also home to two theatres, a weekly farmers market, a distillery, the Cinema Museum and the City and Guilds Art School.
Notable people who have lived or were born in Kennington include former PM James Callaghan, MPs Kenneth Clark, Charles Kennedy, Hazel Blears, Alistair Darling and Jack Straw, actors Charlie Chaplin, Kevin Spacey, musician Bob Marley, artist Vincent van Gogh, poet William Blake and scientist John Alexander Reina Newlands.
Kennington not only has a lot to offer but because of its location it makes it easier to travel to the rest of London. If you can't wait to move here then let Man and Van help you.
Call 020 3743 9354 and book parking space and then we can have an expert team sorting out everything from your packing to transport. When you get in touch we can give detailed information on all of our many services as well as provide a complimentary, no obligation quote. Our prices can't be beaten and the only thing more impressive is our services. Kensington is waiting for you so let us take you there.