Mitcham is an area within the London Borough of Merton in Southwest London. Once a village, it is now mainly a residential area but this does not stop it from having a great deal going on within it. There are many things to do in Mitcham. 

Within this article we will be talking about many things to do in Mitcham and why it is a must-visit part of London. 

Exploring Mitcham’s Natural Beauty

Do not be fooled by the fact that Mitcham is found within one of the UK’s biggest and most well known cities. There are many places to see natural beauty so it is a great place to visit for nature lovers as there are many things to do in Mitcham. 

A Day at Mitcham Common

Mitcham Common is a 460 acre site of Metropolitan Importance for Nature Conservation and it is a wonderful place to visit at any time of the year. 

There are many guided walks that you can go on to take in the common so it is perfect for avid walkers. 

The common is divided into several different sub-sites. The Seven Island Pond area houses the largest and best known of the ponds on the Common. Seven Islands Pond was created by early 19th century gravel extraction, which was required for the growing number of roads. The pond is full of life including birds, frogs, toads and dragonflies so it is an amazing place to visit for any wildlife fans. 

There are many other subsites, including the Golf Course, so there is a great deal to explore. Check out their website to find out more. 

The Beauty of Canons Park

Canon Park has just had a major rejuvenation and it is a beautiful place to visit. Located in the ground of the historic Canons Hall, the includes walled gardens, a play area and its historic running track has been restored. 

Canons House was once a family home but it is a joint community & workspace, with shared office space, rooms for hire and The Preloved Studio which is a waste reduction hub created by Sustainable Merton. 

With a visit to Canons Park you can be surrounded by history but also by modern sensibilities of people’s desire for sustainability and community. 

Discovering Mitcham’s Historical Gems

Along with having many areas of natural beauty, there are also many things to do for history lovers. 

Visiting the Mitcham Cricket Green

Mitcham is an area with a lot of history and that includes its cricket ground. Mitcham Cricket Green is believed to be the oldest cricket ground still in use. It has been used for cricket since 1685. 

In the 19th and 20th centuries, it played host to international matches – the Club and its Green acted as a training base for the first Australian national Test teams touring England. 

Mitcham players also played a key role in setting up the Surrey County Cricket Team and many Mitcham players played for Surrey. Mitcham Club members have also represented England in men’s and women’s cricket.

So, it is not only a cricket ground with a lot of history, it also has a lot of talent. A must visit for any history or cricket lovers. 

Exploring Mitcham’s Historic Churches

Mitcham is also home to some historic churches which have a great deal of architectural and historic value. 

A prime example of this is St Peter & St Paul. The history of the church dates back to 1862 and one family – the Simpsons – who helped to bring Catholicism back to Mitcham  after the Reformation in the 16th Century. 

Although a beautiful place to visit, you will need to check the website to make sure you do not inadvertently interrupt Mass whilst visiting. 

Cultural Experiences in Mitcham

The Wandle Industrial Museum

The Wandle Industrial Museum’s main aim is to preserve, store, and interpret the heritage and history of the industries and people of the River Wandle. 

Founded in 1983, the museum has stuck to this aim, showcasing exhibits that document local industry history. 

The museum is open Wednesdays 1pm – 4pm and Sundays 2-5pm. It is free to visit but donations are always welcome. 

Mitcham’s Culinary Delights

Dining in Mitcham

There are a variety of places to eat out in Mitcham. 

To begin, there is Ceylins which offer Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine. Not only are you in for some delicious food but they also often have live music on, making for a wonderful night out. 

Streatham Kitchen is a wonderful restaurant with a variety of delights on offer from steak to braised octopus. It also has its signature dishes which include wagyu beef or a suckling pig. Their signature dishes must be pre-ordered but they would be a wonderful treat. 

If you are more in the mood for some delicious fish and chips, The Golden Anchor is the place for you. Open for over 30 years, it has everything you would want in a fish bar. Definitely worth a visit. 

Mitcham Market

Mitcham Market is located in the middle of the main shopping area in the town centre. It has a variety of stalls, selling everything from fruit and vegetables to clothes and pet supplies.

The market is from Monday to Saturday, 7am to 5pm. 

Outdoor and Recreational Activities

Golfing in Mitcham

As we have already mentioned there is a golf course on Mitcham Common which is used by Mitcham Golf Club. The 18 hole golf course is located south of Croydon Road, between Beddington Lane and Carshalton Road. 

Golf has been played on the Common since the Conservators first granted a concession to the Princes Golf Club Ltd in 1891. Over the years that followed the Club became popular and a clubhouse was erected on railway-owned land close to Mitcham Junction station. 

Walking and Cycling Routes

There are many walks to do on Mitcham Common but there is also the Wandle Trail which runs for 14 miles in total. It has both walking and cycling trails and you can take in a great deal of the natural beauty in Mitcham 

Top Things To In Mitcham

There are many things to do in Mitcham and it does not matter what you enjoy because Mitcham will have something to offer you. It is a town with a great deal of history, sport, delicious food and a great deal of natural beauty.

It is a must visit place with a great deal of charm. Visit today and find out for yourself.