ABOUT CATFORD

Catford is a hidden gem in the hustle and bustle of south east London, bursting with community spirit. It's just 14 minutes from central London, but remains quiet and authentic. A respite from big city life, there is no shortage of natural green spaces and walking and cycling routes which connect you to other parts of the borough.

There are several theories about how Catford got its name. The name Catford was first recorded back in 1254. The most widely accepted theory behind its origin is that the name derives from the place where cattle crossed the River Ravensbourne in Saxon times - and that Catford is simply a shortening of the phrase ‘cattle-ford.’

Another explanation is from the black cats, commonly associated with witchcraft, that were thrown into the river and left to drown during the witch hunts.

Regardless of its origins, cat iconography endures throughout the town, most notably with the giant fibreglass cat that sits above the shopping centre and on our label.