Deptford War Memorial

Deptford War Memorial in London honours the men of Deptford who died in the First World War. It stands in south-east London in the Borough of Lewisham, where Lewisham Way meets Upper Brockley Road, at the north end of a small memorial garden. Historic England lists it at Grade II, a status it received in 2012.

Who built it, and when?

The council of the former Metropolitan Borough of Deptford commissioned it in 1919. William Richards of Brockley designed it, and the sculpted figures are the work of W. W. Wagstaff of Kingston upon Thames. Major General Sir Charles Townshend unveiled it in July 1921. Dates from 1939 to 1945 were added later, so it now remembers the dead of both world wars.

What will you see?

This is an open public monument rather than a ticketed sight, so you can visit at any hour for free. Look closely at the sculpted figures, the inscriptions and the later Second World War additions. The surrounding garden of remembrance makes a quiet pause on a walk through this part of London.

How do you get there?

The memorial sits on Lewisham Way, between Brockley and New Cross. City buses serve the road, and Brockley, New Cross and New Cross Gate stations are within walking distance. Check the route in the TfL journey planner before you set out.

Where does the information come from, and what else is nearby?

The memorial appears in the National Heritage List for England (Historic England entry 1406592) and in the Imperial War Museums' War Memorials Register. Do not confuse it with other Deptford memorials, such as the separate Grade II listed memorial in Brockley Cemetery or the obelisk at St Paul's Church, Deptford, which the same register covers.

Frequently asked questions

Is there an entrance fee? No. The memorial is in a public space and open at all times.

Is it a listed monument? Yes. It has been Grade II listed since 17 February 2012.

Whom does it commemorate? The men of Deptford killed in the First World War, with Second World War dates added later.

How long should I allow? A quarter of an hour is enough, ideally combined with a walk around Brockley and New Cross.