Blackheath - originally named after the dark colour of the local soil - has a rich history going back to the time of the Romans, who used it as a stopping point on Watling Street. 

Centuries later Blackheath was  a rallying point for Wat Tyler's Peasants' Revolt of 1381 and for Jack Cade's Kentish rebellion in 1450. Wat Tyler is commemorated through Wat Tyler Road on the Heath. Cornish rebels were defeated in the Battle of Deptford Bridge (sometimes called the Battle of Blackheath) after pitching camp in town. Blackheath also had strong associations with the campaign for women's suffrage.

Blackheath  has a distinguished architectural history.  Built in the late 1700s and early 1800s, it contains many fine examples of  Georgian and Victorian houses. Blackheath is a focus for many activities in Lewisham.  In the Blackheath neighbourhood there is a railway station, a library, numerous shops, restaurants, cafes, bars and pubs.  There is also the Age Exchange Reminiscence Centre, and The Blackheath Art Gallery.  Blackheath also hosts a farmers market every Sunday. 

The Blackheath Conservatoire of Music and the Art is located on the edge of the Blackheath Park estate.  Blackheath is home to a concert venue just next door to the Conservatoire called the Blackheath Halls.  Events such as funfairs, circus and annual fireworks displays are located nearby as well.

Sports are also a very prominent aspect of life in Blackheath.  Blackheath is famed for first introducing the game of golf to England as well as giving its  name to the first first hockey club.  The Blackheath Rugby Club is the sporting club of most significance in Blackheath as it organised the world’s first rugby international in March of 1871.  Blackheath is also one of the prime locations where spectators can watch runners passing through during the London Marathon.