Tottenham Tales

Ever wondered how the road got its name? The legend of the Seven Sisters trees is a fascinating story that goes at least as far back as the 13th century.

A master violin maker (father) and an award-winning photographer (son) once worked here. Their lives tell an extraordinary story of world-class craftmanship, evocative photographs of Tottenham and a secret that went to the grave.

Take a look at some local history from behind the lens. From ballooning, to Alfred Hitchcock and Hollywood, to your home TV set, this part of South Tottenham has some fascinating tales to explore.

Tottenham Green has been a hotbed of pioneers and changemakers. In the past 100 years, it has continued its radical legacy and helped transform the political landscape of Tottenham and beyond.

For centuries, Tottenham Green has played host to progressive educators, revolutionary medical professionals and patrons of art.

Artist John Godden (d.1999) set up home in Hampden Lane in 1972. His paintings capture the overlooked, the nameless and the unloved – forming a glorious archive of Tottenham’s ever-changing urban landscape.

Hartington Park, thanks to community action and solidarity, went from demolition site to cherished green space for residents.

From the first history of Tottenham, to groundbreaking Arabic scholarship, stunning artwork and even a local ‘witch’ – All Hallows is the original parish church for Tottenham and has seen it all.

West Green Road’s draw to creatives and artists can be traced back to the 19th century and through to us today. As a place, West Green Road has been an area and community where its cultural identity and heritage has captured imaginations and inspired – from setting up creative businesses and homes, to influencing creative responses through writing, films, murals, storytelling, photography, art and music, and giving people their own sense of agency.