Category: DCC Articles

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Exploring Balham’s Hidden Gems: From Post Office to Cinemas, Discover the Unique Stops on This Fascinating Walk

London Postcode Walks apparently inspired by “the Ladies who Bus” who have travelled London one bus route at a time, and building on the work they have done to become a walking tour guide, this blog is about walking London one postcode at a time. There are over 100 London postcode districts so that should keep me busy!
This phrase “Balham: Gateway to the South” is always associated with Peter Sellers but he did not write it or originally perform the sketch of that name. It was written by Frank Muir and Denis Norden for a 1950s BBC radio series called Third Division with actor Robert Beatty extolling the wonders of ‘Bal-ham’. It was only later more famously performed by Peter Sellers in a parody of an American newsreel travelogue host. This was subsequently released on the 1958 record “The Best of Sellers” and that is what everyone knows. Here is a link to that famous recording in case you want to remind yourself or indeed in case you have never heard it in full: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8RTWk9QIKS0 (may need to be reloaded but should work if you do that)

Details of the walking route below.

Walking London, Updated Edition: Thirty Original Walks In and Around London (IMM Lifestyle Books) Routes from 2 to 6 Miles with Photos, Complete Maps, & Details of Sites, Public Transport, Pubs & More
Walking London, Updated Edition: Thirty Original Walks In and Around London (IMM Lifestyle Books) Routes from 2 to 6 Miles with Photos, Complete Maps, & Details of Sites, Public Transport, Pubs & More
Buy now
 
33 Walks in London That You Shouldn't Miss: (111 Places/111 Shops) (111 Places/Shops)
33 Walks in London That You Shouldn't Miss: (111 Places/111 Shops) (111 Places/Shops)
Buy now
 

Start at Balham Post Office which is 92a Balham High Road.

Stop 1: Balham Post Office

Read on https://londonpostcodewalks.wordpress.com/tag/du-cane-court/

To learn more about the other stops before you end at Stop 11: Majestic Wine (facade of former Odeon Cinema)

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Legends say that this Art Deco apartment building almost became Hitler’s British headquarters.

Atlas Obscura have written another article including the myth that Hitler wanted Du Cane Court as his UK HQ.

Excerpt: Du Cane Court is a strikingly beautiful Art Deco apartment building in Balham, South London. It opened in 1937 with 676 apartments, making it one of the largest blocks of flats to be found anywhere in Europe. With its distinctive curves and Art Deco styling, Du Cane Court was the height of modernity. Its sleek lobby, marbled pillar entryway, and top floor social club, with a bar and restaurant on the 7th floor, made it a widely popular home for many actors and music hall stars in the 1930s.

Read more directly on Atlas Obscura.

There is no credible historical evidence to suggest that Adolf Hitler intended to set up his command headquarters in the south London suburb of Balham or anywhere else in London. During World War II, Hitler’s headquarters were primarily based in Germany, with several locations serving as his command centers, such as the Wolf’s Lair in Poland and the Berghof in Bavaria.

It’s important to exercise caution with regards to historical claims or rumors without reliable sources. While there were bombing campaigns conducted by Nazi Germany against London during the war, there is no documented evidence to support the notion that Hitler had specific plans to establish his command headquarters in Balham or any other location in London.

It’s crucial to rely on well-documented historical sources and verified information when discussing significant events and historical figures.

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Looking to sell your flat in Du Cane Court?

Whilst there are many estate agents in the local area, only one of them has taken such an interest in Du Cane Court that they host a valuation form and the original sales brochure on their site.
Head on over to Porters to fill in their valuation form or visit them as they say themselves, their office is just next door to Du Cane Court between the curry houses and next to the fish & chip shop, not so good for their waist lines!

They also have a waiting list of applicants looking to both buy and rent flats in the block and do not have the properties to meet demand. They also claim to be in the building most days conducting viewings, valuing flats or speaking with the estate office about lease extensions so you could do worse than check them out if you are looking to sell or rent your flat.

Also worth checking out the original Du Cane Court sales brochure on their website too!

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Balham Area Guide features Du Cane Court

Local Estate Agents often provide would be tenants and homeowners guides to the local area. KFH are no different and have produced a local area guide for Balham which features Du Cane Court in its fact file alongside interesting information about Architecture and property, Going out, and Local amenities. More information at KFH.

The page on KFH.co.uk provides information about Balham, a vibrant neighborhood situated in South West London and Surrey. It highlights the area’s desirable qualities, making it an attractive place to live. Balham is known for its excellent transport links, with three stations providing easy access to central London and other parts of the city. The page emphasizes the neighborhood’s diverse range of properties, from Victorian and Edwardian homes to modern apartments, catering to various lifestyles and preferences. It also mentions Balham’s lively high street, offering an array of shops, cafes, and restaurants, creating a bustling and vibrant atmosphere. The page highlights the presence of green spaces like Tooting Bec Common and Wandsworth Common, providing residents with opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. Balham’s family-friendly environment and quality schools are also mentioned, making it an appealing location for families. Overall, the page provides a comprehensive overview of the attractive features and amenities that make Balham a sought-after neighborhood in South West London and Surrey.

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Hitler’s HQ?

Did Hitler Really Spare Du Cane Court For His Nazi Headquarters?
We’ve all heard the rumours that Du Cane Court was to have been earmarked for Hitler’s HQ. According to Londonist, Du Cane did avoid direct bombing, although as they also point out Bomb Sight records a bomb falling just metres from Du Cane Court. Londonist also put forward the theory that the Nazis wouldn’t have bombed so close to the building if Hitler had ordered them not to (unless it was a case of bomber error).
As Londonist also point out the theory that Du Cane Court resembles a swastika from above is also bunkum. Read for yourself what other buildings were thought to be slated as a Nazi HQ if Hitler had won the war and a fascinating article showing Du Cane looking in no way like a swastika.
More at Londonist about Du Cane and the Nazi’s.

It’s important to note that there is no credible historical evidence to suggest that Adolf Hitler intended to set up his command headquarters in the south London suburb of Balham or anywhere else in London. During World War II, Hitler’s headquarters were primarily based in Germany, with several locations serving as his command centers, such as the Wolf’s Lair in Poland and the Berghof in Bavaria.

It’s important to exercise caution with regards to historical claims or rumors without reliable sources. While there were bombing campaigns conducted by Nazi Germany against London during the war, there is no documented evidence to support the notion that Hitler had specific plans to establish his command headquarters in Balham or any other location in London.

It’s crucial to rely on well-documented historical sources and verified information when discussing significant events and historical figures.