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Thornton Heath

Introduction

Thornton Heath Overview

Thornton Heath is a suburb located in South London, England. It has a rich history dating back to medieval times, with its origins closely tied to the medieval town of Thornton.

Location and Geography

  • Name Origin: The name "Thornton" comes from the Old English words "thorhild" or "thorngeld", which referred to a personal name.
  • Geographical Location: Thornton Heath is situated approximately 2 miles northeast of central London, within the borough of Croydon.

History

Medieval Origins

The area now known as Thornton Heath was first mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086. During this time, it was a small settlement called "Thornhilt" and was part of the medieval county of Kent.

Rise to Prominence

In the 15th century, the area underwent significant development with the arrival of the London Underground. The construction of lines A (now Heathrow Tube line) and B (now Northern Line) brought an influx of residents and transformed Thornton Heath into a bustling suburb.

Notable Historical Landmarks

  • Thornton Heath Parish Church: A 13th-century parish church that still exists today.
  • The Royal Agricultural Showground: A historic showground established in the late 19th century, now home to various events throughout the year.

Industrial and Economic Development

In the early 20th century, Thornton Heath experienced significant industrial growth, with the development of textile mills and other manufacturing facilities. This period saw the emergence of a diverse community with residents from various ethnic backgrounds.

Economic and Cultural Developments

  • Thames Water: The area has historically been connected to the River Thames through the construction of canals, leading to a thriving water-based industry.
  • Croydon Council: In 1914, Croydon Corporation established a tram network to transport residents, including those from Thornton Heath.

Key Facts

Population

As of 2020, the population of Thornton Heath is approximately 23,000 people.

Demographics

  • Age Structure: The median age in Thornton Heath is 38.4 years.
  • Sex Ratio: There are more men than women living in Thornton Heath (1,041:780).

Education

The area has a range of educational institutions, including primary schools and secondary schools.

Educational Institutions

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  • Generation time: 2024-11-02 10:07:34
  • Keywords: Thornton Heath, wiki, history, attractions, facts
  • URL: https://worldbestplaces.com/places/thornton_heath