Streatham, Residential district in South London, England
Streatham lies in the London Borough of Lambeth, roughly five miles south of the center, stretching along a long high street through several residential neighborhoods. Three railway stations—Streatham, Streatham Common, and Streatham Hill—link the area to central London and surrounding suburbs.
The settlement grew along a Roman road and received its name in medieval times. In the 18th century, mineral springs were discovered here, drawing wealthy Londoners who built country houses in the area.
The district takes its name from Old English words meaning hamlet on the street, reflecting its position along a Roman road. Today the high street holds shops, cafés and homes where residents go about their daily routines.
Visitors will find most shops and facilities along the high street, which runs for several miles through the district. The three railway stations sit in different sections and offer regular connections into central London.
Between the two world wars, the area developed a lively entertainment scene with several cinemas, the Streatham Hill Theatre, and the Streatham Ice Rink. Many of these venues have since closed or been repurposed, though some buildings still stand as reminders of that era.
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