If you’re planning to head anywhere near Old Kent Road this afternoon, here’s what you need to know. Tip one: Avoid the stretch between the Tesco Metro and the Elephant & Castle roundabout—the clean-up crew is using a full lane, and traffic is backing up all the way to the Bricklayers Arms.
Tip two: If you’re on foot, watch your step. There’s a fine layer of squashed fruit that makes the pavement look like a modern art installation. Think of it as free exfoliation for your trainers.
Tip three: The local bus service (routes 21, 53, and 172) is being diverted via New Cross Road. That means an extra 12 minutes on your journey, so factor that into your lunch plans. Or, better yet, walk—London’s air might be questionable, but today it smells faintly of lychees.
A Fun Little Fact About This Corner of London
Did you know that Old Kent Road was part of the original Roman road, Watling Street? That’s right—this very tarmac has seen chariots, horse-drawn carts, and now, a delivery lorry full of tinned peaches. It’s a historical corridor of glorious mishaps.
Two hospitalised after crash on Old Kent Road - Southwark News
In the 19th century, the area was known for its pleasure gardens and circus acts. So, in a way, today’s spectacle is keeping the tradition alive. You just traded the elephant for an overturned truck and the juggler for a man chasing a rogue mango.
And if you’re a Monopoly purist, you know this street is the cheapest property on the board. Perhaps today’s accident is just a metaphor for the area’s stubborn refusal to be taken seriously. Either way, it’s character.
