Tired of the city’s hustle? Step into a different world right here at Lodge Road Bog North. This seemingly unassuming spot holds secrets from Finchley’s past.
The Finchley Society formed in 1971. It bravely fought to save cottages on Lodge Lane. Sir John Betjeman became their first president. Spike Milligan who was locally active followed him. Lodge Lane once housed Private John Parr. He tragically became the first British soldier killed in World War One. The famous David Jason also called Lodge Lane home. He lived in a house where Finchley Market sits today.
Picture Lodge Road Bog North as a silent witness to history. It saw Finchley transform from quiet hamlets into a bustling suburb. Imagine the open fields surrounding the old manor houses. Moss Hall, once called Little Angels, stood nearby. Fred Ingram developed Woodside Park Garden Suburb in the 1920s. It was designed with only eight houses per acre. The suburb boasted its own local shops and a convenient station into London.
North Finchley’s story weaves through coaching companies. Tally Ho, a staging post where the Great North Road met the New Road, gave its name to the area. The Torrington Pub established itself around this time. The current Tally Ho pub replaced the old Park Hotel in 1927.
Even Woodside Park Station has its tale. It opened in 1872 as Torrington Park Station. It was later renamed in 1882. The parish of Christ Church was established in this area. Around 1870, only 350 dwellings existed here.
Think about Charles Dickens. He found inspiration in North Finchley. He wrote Martin Chuzzlewit at Cobley’s farm, also known as Fallow Farm. The farm sat at the heart of Finchley’s hamlets.
Trade thrived in Whetstone along the Great North Road. The Bull and Butcher got its license in 1765. Whetstone’s name comes from soldiers sharpening knives. They did this on their way to the Battle of Barnet.
Lodge Road Bog North connects to these fragments of the past. It reminds us of the ever-changing landscape of London. It offers a quiet contrast to the urban environment. It saw so many historical events happen. Take a moment to appreciate this bog’s subtle story.