Weekender celebrates all that’s great about Eltham past and present

Hundreds of people joined the fun at Eltham Weekender on 13 and 14 September. Passey Place was a hub of activity with free and family-friendly enjoyment. 

Children took part in the Tudor-inspired arts and crafts making crowns and stain glass windows, and even some of the adults couldn’t say no to free face painting.  

Live music came from local singers Tilly, Stephen Beden, the Eltham Church of England School and Rock Choirs, swing band Jolly Good Timers and Play It On Pans steel drum performers.  

For the history buffs, there was a heritage quest trail to find places of historical significance while learning more about Eltham. Stops included the Bob Hope Theatre, The Eltham GPO Pub, St Mary's Community Centre, Eltham Fire Station, Eltham Library and Eltham Palace. The trail did a fantastic job of showcasing the town’s rich heritage and links to royalty, with many people discovering these gems on their doorstop for the first time.  

Those who gathered all the clues not only won a colouring book, donated by The Eltham Society, but had the chance to look around Eltham Palace for free. Many were so enamoured with what they saw, they registered as members.  

Visitors only had positive things to say about Eltham Weekender, thanking Royal Borough for Greenwich for putting on this amazing event for free, and that they look forward to the next one.  

Councillor Jackie Smith, Cabinet Member for Inclusive Economy, Business, Skills and Greenwich Supports said: “Documented as far back as the Domesday Book, Eltham has a fascinating history to delve into and to this day is a vibrant and interesting place. We are very proud of the array of small, independent businesses Eltham has to offer. Thank you to all our partners who made Eltham Weekender a triumph, and to everyone who visited.” 

Organised in conjunction with the Eltham Town Centre Partnership, Eltham Weekender was funded via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and supported by the Mayor of London. The event was delivered and managed by CC Events.  

Managed by English Heritage, Eltham Palace is a unique mix of medieval and early twentieth century architecture. The original manor house was built in the early 1300s, with the Great Hall added in the 1470s by Edward IV. This is also where Henry VIII spent his childhood. The art deco mansion came much later in 1936.