Tell me about Shortlands

[mycrazyyears]

DH and I are moving to Shortlands (Bromley) soon, Kingswood Ave to be precise.
Can anyone tell me about local schools, nurseries etc? Are there any playgrounds or parks or do we need to go towards Beckenham or Bromley?

Shortlands is a lovely place to live. The schools are good and there are plenty of parks and green spaces. Shortlands Library has lots of children’s activities and there are community days at Shortlands station. There is a thriving Greener Group. The Shortlands Tavern has quiz nights and a Knitting and Crochet night 1st and 3rd Monday evening of each month.

That sounds great :) Just googled the library, the activities sound really interesting - it says they are still suspended due to Covid (www.better.org.uk/library/london/bromley/shortlands-library/childrens-activities-shortlands-library) do you know about that?
The closest primary to our new home will be Highfield School, however everyone seems to talk about Harris Academy. Do you know if Highfield School is good as well?
The house we will be moving too has a very small garden, and DS loves spending time on playgrounds. Are there any (even small ones) in Shortlands?

Hi, my children have grown and flown so are past primary school, but I have lived in the area for years. Highfield School has always had a good reputation, but I have heard good things about Harris Academy Shortlands too. It is a new school with a brand new building, however it has less outside space than Highfield.

Off Station Road, Shortlands is a large open space with a playground, known locally as The Mead (short for Queensmead). www.bromley.gov.uk/directory_record/1212753/queensmead_recreation_ground
You are also near Southill Woods and slightly further away is Kelsey Park with a large playground, cafe and a lake. It is very popular and does get very busy at weekends and during school holidays.

Regarding Shortlands Library, I last looked at activities during the summer holidays and painting in the park was definitely running together with a reading club and Lego club. Maybe ring the library direct for more up-to-date info? The library is open Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday. Please note it closes for lunch between 1-2 pm.

There are also lots of activities for children at St Mary's Church Shortlands, such as Rainbows, Brownies, ballet classes. There is also children's Christmas service and Christingle service in December at the church.