Then and Now: Town Hall from Tate Gardens
Photographic comparisons of old and modern views of Lambeth


c. 1921 A view of the Town Hall, viewed from Tate Gardens (outside the Tate Library).

Note the bust of the great Victorian philanthropist and entrepreneur, Sir Henry Tate facing the Town Hall.

The bust is surrounded by a well-maintained flower bed, providing a pleasant place for Edwardian ladies and gentlemen to while away the hours.

(pic: Lambeth Archives)


Sept 2003 A lengthy cleaning program in 2002 has left the clock tower looking as good as new. Unfortunately, its gleaming condition now shows up the rest of the building!

Sir Henry Tate's bust has now been moved closer to the Tate Library, while Tate Gardens have become a very pale shadow of its former glory.

The Edwardian gardens have now been replaced by an ugly expanse of concrete, favoured by local alcoholics and ne'er do wells.





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