Saxon roots run deep in Edgware. Ecgi’s weir a pond where fish were caught gave the town its name. Edgware sits on Watling Street a Roman road now known as the Edgware Road. The town remained a small village until the early 20th century. The arrival of the Northern Line tube greatly expanded Edgware. It swelled enormously becoming part of London’s vast conurbation.
Edgware’s High Street is a part of the Edgware Road itself the Middlesex section of Watling Street. Much of the village structure survives along the High Street. Old buildings remain. The parish church and two almshouse collections stand as testaments to the past. The Romans made pottery at nearby Brockley Hill. Some believe this to be the site of the Roman settlement Sulloniacis. To the northwest lies Canons Park. It was developed as an estate by James Brydges the 1st Duke of Chandos. His grand palace Cannons once stood there.
Edgware’s history is rich with notable figures. Richard Russell founder of XL Recordings once called Edgware home. Footballer Anita Asante and actress Eleanor Bron also hail from Edgware. Max Bygraves a renowned singer comedian and actor added to Edgware’s cultural tapestry. So did Antony Costa from the boy band Blue. Many other celebrities have connections to Edgware. These include Tony Currie Charlotte McDonagh and Shirley Eaton.
Edgware is more than just famous residents. It boasts a thriving sporting scene. Edgware Cricket Club based at Canons Park plays Sunday League cricket. The town is well-connected. Edgware Burnt Oak and Colindale tube stations offer convenient access to central London. Numerous buses serve the area including daytime and nighttime routes. Edgware’s economy once included Argonaut Games. They had their headquarters in Edgware. Green Shield Stamps was another prominent company with its headquarters in the town.
Edgware transformed from a small village to a bustling suburb. This transformation reflects London’s wider growth. The town retains a strong sense of its history. Its past is interwoven with its present. The juxtaposition of ancient roots and modern development makes Edgware unique. Edgware’s story is one of growth and evolution. It’s a town with a unique identity. A place where history and modernity intertwine. It’s a town you won’t soon forget.