Northwood’s Historic War Memorial and Bowleys Shoe Shop: A Nostalgic Reflection
In the heart of Northwood, on Green Lane at the junction with Maxwell Road stands a symbol of remembrance and honour—the Northwood War Memorial. Erected in February 1921, the monument serves as a reminder to residents of the sacrifices made during World War II.
Adjacent to the memorial once stood Bowleys, a beloved family-owned shoe shop that was an integral part of Northwood’s community since the 1960s. For decades, Bowleys offered quality products and personalised service to the community both in Northwood and Stanmore where the family had another branch. The shop’s presence next to the war memorial added a sense of historical significance and reverence to the area.
However, in a changing retail landscape, Bowleys eventually closed its doors two years ago, marking the end of an era. In its place, Robsons Estate Agents, a well-established local business, recognised the value of the location and decided to acquire the premises in 2021. Robsons, which first commenced operations in Northwood in 1962 from a modest site office in Eastbury Farm, saw an opportunity to further contribute to the development of the area.
Since taking over the unit, Robsons has undertaken significant refurbishments to the two-story, 2,500-square-foot building.
As the Northwood War Memorial stands as a silent witness to the sacrifices made by previous generations, the evolution of the adjacent building serves as a testament to the town’s ability to embrace new opportunities. Together, they form an enduring legacy that captures Northwood’s rich history and its unwavering determination to forge ahead into the future.
The Gate: A Historic Pub Welcoming Visitors for Centuries
This Grade II listed building is known as The Gate, a popular pub that has been part of the community with origins dating back to the 1800s.
The Gate holds a unique position as both a historic landmark and a contemporary hotspot, drawing in patrons with its captivating blend of tradition and modernity. The pub’s enduring popularity can be attributed not only to its picturesque setting but also to its reputation for serving lovely food, including its very popular Sunday roasts. As visitors flock to the nearby Warner Bros Studio Tour, The Gate has become a favoured destination for those seeking a satisfying meal and a cosy atmosphere.
Green Lane: The Commercial Hub of Northwood
Green Lane, once a rural lane connecting Rickmansworth Road to Green Lane Farm and Gateshill Farm, has transformed into the commercial heart of Northwood. Following the opening of Northwood Station in 1887, new roads were developed on both sides of Green Lane, spurring growth in the area.
On the north side, Dene Road, Oaklands Gate, and Eastbury Road were constructed, while Maxwell Road became the main junction on the south side, connecting Green Lane to Rickmansworth Road. Station Approach was laid out to provide access to the original station, and Hallowell Road ran parallel to the railway.
Today, Green Lane thrives as a commercial hotspot as it did back in the 1980s. With three-story shop parades housing a mix of retail, restaurants, and offices. Financial institutions once dotted the corners, with Barclays remaining as the sole survivor.
Maxwell Road seeing a mix of large private houses and smaller housing plots over time. Murray Road features predominantly two to two-and-a-half-story detached and semi-detached houses. Dene Road, within the conservation area, has been redeveloped with terraced housing and three-storey flats.
Architectural Splendour and Artistic Treasures: Exploring Holy Trinity Church in Northwood
Holy Trinity Church is an architectural gem that showcases the Gothic revival style, which was a popular architectural movement during the 19th century. The church was built in 1852, and it has since undergone expansions and extensions to accommodate the growing needs of the congregation.
One notable addition to Holy Trinity Church was the North Aisle, which was added in 1894, enhancing the church’s capacity and architectural grandeur. Additionally, further extensions were made to the church in 1927, demonstrating its evolving nature over the years.
The interior of Holy Trinity Church is said to feature a magnificent wooden hammer-beam roof, which is a characteristic feature of the Gothic architectural style. This type of roof design showcases exposed beams that extend from the walls, creating a visually striking and awe-inspiring effect.
One notable artistic element within Holy Trinity Church is a window located in the Lady Chapel. This window was reportedly designed by the renowned pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones and manufactured by the esteemed firm Morris & Co. Known for their intricate stained glass creations, Morris & Co. played a significant role in the Arts and Crafts movement during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
