Perhaps the name North Cray sounds familiar. It is an area in South East London. North Cray sits within the London Borough of Bexley. It is east of Sidcup and south of Bexleyheath. North Cray is 12.6 miles south-east of Charing Cross. Charing Cross is the traditional centre of London. North Cray is also within the Metropolitan Green Belt.
North Cray has a history that stretches back centuries. Previously, North Cray was a civil parish. It was located in the Hundred of Ruxley, Sutton-at-Hone Lathe. Ruxley was once its own parish. However, it was abolished in 1557. Then the area was absorbed into North Cray parish.
The administrative history of North Cray has evolved. Until 1965, North Cray was part of Kent. From 1894 to 1934, it was within the Bromley Rural District. Then, from 1934 to 1965, it was in the Chislehurst and Sidcup Urban District. Finally, in 1965, it became part of the London Borough of Bexley.
North Cray is connected to other areas by bus. The 492 bus route runs to Bluewater via Bexley. It also goes through Bexleyheath, Crayford, and Dartford. The same bus goes to Sidcup via Ruxley and Foots Cray.
The nearest National Rail stations are Sidcup and Bexley. Both provide services to London Charing Cross. They also connect to Dartford and Gravesend. The 492 London bus service connects these stations to North Cray.
North Cray gained international attention in 1822. Robert Stewart, Viscount Castlereagh, committed suicide there. He was the Foreign Secretary. He took his life at his country home, Loring Hall.
Other notable people were born in North Cray. Geologist Joshua Trimmer was born here. Colonial administrator Harry Ord was born here too. Also, cricketer John Gosling was born in North Cray.
North Cray is bordered by other areas. It is near Foots Cray to the north and north east. It is also close to Ruxley to the east and south east. Saint Paul’s Cray is to the south and south west of North Cray. Sidcup lies to the west and north west.
As you leave North Cray, consider its place in history. Remember the notable figures linked to this area. North Cray is more than just a location. It is a place with a rich and interesting past.