What you need to know about having a baby in Sidcup
We moved to Sidcup in April 2021, but it took another year and a half for me to feel truly at home. Having my daughter in October 2022 was crucial, because let me tell you - nothing helps you REALLY discover an area like working out which coffee shops are breastfeeding friendly, which green spaces to head to when you need a nap walk, and where the weigh-in clinics are. Luckily I’ve done the legwork, so here are some top tips for our local area.
Where can I give birth?
This is totally up to you! In terms of local hospitals, there’s Princess Royal University Hospital (PRUH) in Farnborough and Darent Valley Hospital in Dartford. Both offer a standard hospital setting and midwife-led birth centres. You may also choose to have a homebirth and this can be discussed with your midwifery team.
Where can I get a coffee in peace with my baby once they’re here?
Sidcup High Street was my saviour in the postnatal period. The first place I aimed for was Catch Cafe. Small, comfortable, and friendly, with excellent cakes and comforting hot chocolates. Coast is also a top spot for young children with highchairs provided once they get a bit bigger. And Sarto Lounge is a great new addition with its play area and comfy sofas. Vitally, all three of these welcome breastfeeding and have baby change areas in their loos.
Where can I go for a quiet walk?
Sidcup Place Community Garden was a key feature of my maternity leave. It’s right next to The Star pub too, so perfect for a meet-up with friends or family. Danson Park is also a great shout and it’s worth getting to know it if you don’t already as your child(ren) will probably spent countless hours in the playground and splash park here once they’re older! There’s also a few coffee kiosks and places to grab a hot drink or snack while strolling, as well as the Danson Stables pub.
Where can I get help feeding my baby?
Infant Feeding Clinics
Bexley’s Infant Feeding Clinics support parents with feeding their baby, whether exclusively breastfeeding, pumping or using formula. You can meet Health Visitors who will help you on your feeding journey and give information on a variety of feeding topics. Make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes before the end of the clinic. Go to bexley0to19.co.uk/0-4-years/infant-feeding-clinics for more information.
Tuesdays, 9:30am-11:15am, North Cray Neighbourhood Centre, Davis Way, Sidcup
Wednesdays, 1:30pm - 3:15pm, Danson Children’s Centre, Brampton Road, Bexleyheath
Thursdays, 9:15am - 1:00pm, Erith Youth and Family Centre, 105 West Street, Erith
Local NCT Baby Cafés
Run by the National Childbirth Trust, these free drop-in sessions are led by a qualified NCT Breastfeeding Counsellor and offer support with all infant feeding issues. Go to https://www.nct.org.uk/local-activities-meet-ups for more information.
Mondays, 10am-12pm, St Augustine’s Church, Southborough Lane, Bromley
Wednesdays, 11am - 12:30pm, Crayford Community Centre, Crayford Library, Bexley
