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Living in Hayes

A peaceful and characterful suburb in Bromley, Hayes blends village charm, green space and family-friendly living with easy access to central London.

About Hayes

Hayes is a picturesque and welcoming neighbourhood that offers a blend of historic charm and modern convenience. The heart of the area, known as Old Hayes, features a 13th-century church and traditional pubs, while the town centre offers boutique shops and cafés. 

Locals enjoy a strong sense of community, scenic commons and a relaxed pace of life. With good schools, green spaces and direct rail links to Cannon Street and Charing Cross, Hayes is popular with families, retirees and commuters.

Fact file

  • Hayes has had many historic names, all meaning “heath” or “common.”
  • The Wilberforce Oak in Holwood Estate marks the spot where the abolition of slavery was planned.
  • Hayes Common is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest.

Architecture and property

Hayes features a mix of 1930s semi-detached and detached homes, post-war developments and modern flats. The area developed gradually, with housing expanding after World War I and II. Larger homes and terraced properties are available, offering options for families and first-time buyers. The town retains a residential feel with leafy streets and spacious homes.

Going out

Locals enjoy dining at Chapter One, a Michelin-starred restaurant nearby, or relaxing at pubs like The New Inn and The George. Hayes Village Hall hosts amateur theatre and community events, while Bromley’s Churchill Theatre offers professional performances. Boutique salons and nearby shopping centres like The Glades add to the lifestyle appeal.

Local amenities

Blackheath & Bromley Harriers is one of the UK’s oldest athletics clubs, offering events for everyone from marathon runners to casual joggers. For indoor fitness, Bromley Fitness & Wellbeing Centre provides a modern gym, spa treatments, and nutritional advice.

Everyday shopping is easy with a Sainsbury’s Local and Iceland on Station Approach, plus nearby parking. Hayes Library, though small, hosts a lively calendar of children’s activities and an adult reading group, making it a true community hub.

Green spaces

Hayes Common offers 79 hectares of oak woodland, bridleways and walking trails. West Wickham Common provides countryside views, while Keston Commons features ponds and tree-lined paths. These green spaces are ideal for walking, cycling and family outings, and help maintain Hayes’s rural charm.

Education

Hayes and the surrounding areas offer a strong mix of schooling options. Hayes Primary School is a favourite among local families, while Hayes Secondary School is highly regarded. The Glebe School provides specialist support for children, while nearby Orpington is home to selective schools such as Newstead Wood for girls and St Olave’s for boys. Other well-known options include The Ravensbourne School, Ravens Wood School and Keston C.E. Primary School.

Transport

Hayes benefits from excellent overground links to Cannon Street and Charing Cross, with journeys taking around 40 minutes from Hayes station, with trains also calling at Lewisham, providing easy access to the DLR.

The area is well served by local bus routes, with services covering areas from Purley Way to Eltham and beyond. By car, Hayes is just six minutes from the A232, which links to the M25 in around 20 minutes. Gatwick Airport is roughly a 40‑minute drive away and regular train services from Hayes to the airport take approximately an hour and a half.

Properties for sale in Hayes

Forge Close, Hayes, Kent, BR2
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Forge Close, Hayes, Kent, BR2

Apartment
1
1
1

We are pleased to present this spacious one-bedroom retirement apartment located on the first floor, covering approximately 431 sqft. The apartment enjoys views of the well-maintained communal gardens. It features a living area, a fitted kitchen, a well-sized bedroom, and a bathroom, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a manageable living space.

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Chatham Avenue, Hayes, Kent, BR2
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24

Chatham Avenue, Hayes, Kent, BR2

Semi Detached House
4
3
3

Situated on a highly sought-after street, this well-presented, extended four-bedroom semi-detached home offers generous and versatile accommodation, making it ideal for modern family living. The property is conveniently located within easy reach of local amenities, excellent transport links, and several well-regarded schools.

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Penshurst Walk, Bromley, Kent, BR2
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Penshurst Walk, Bromley, Kent, BR2

Maisonette
2
1
1

This chain-free two-bedroom first-floor maisonette presents a great opportunity for first-time buyers, downsizers, or investors. It is located in a cul-de-sac within easy reach of Bromley Town Centre. The accommodation features a spacious lounge/diner, two generously sized double bedrooms, a kitchen, and a shower room with separate wc. Additionally, the property includes its own front garden and a garage.

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Bridle Road, Croydon, CR0
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12

Bridle Road, Croydon, CR0

Terraced Terraced House
3
1
1

A recently refurbished three bedroom house, located in Shirley. Decorated to a high standard, available now. Offered unfurnished.

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Ham View, Croydon, CR0
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10

Ham View, Croydon, CR0

Terraced House
3
1
1

*Pay less upfront with a Zero Deposit Guarantee*

Recently refreshed throughout, this bright and spacious three-bedroom terraced house offers modern living in a convenient CR0 location. Benefiting from full redecoration and brand-new flooring, the property presents a fresh, contemporary finish and is ready to move straight into. An excellent family home with well-proportioned accommodation and plenty of natural light throughout.

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Westgate Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3
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Westgate Road, Beckenham, Kent, BR3

Apartment
2
1
1

A two bedroom maisonette to rent in Beckenham, located within the Clare House Primary catchment area. Available now offered unfurnished.

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