This map shows Walworth in transition from a rural to an urban community.

There is ribbon development along the main road and some blocks of its streets have been built up.

However, there are still extensive areas of garden or pasture. Other blocks have been laid out but not developed.

Prominent among these is Edwin Cross's Surrey Zoological Garden at Manor Place. This was a South London challenge to the zoo in Regent's Park. It later evolved into an all-purpose entertainment centre with music hall, concert and firework displays.

Map from drawn and engraved documents and personal observation by Benjamin Rees Davies, 1846

Also shown is the recently built Bricklayers Arms and the terminus of the South Eastern and Croydon Railway. It was unsuccessful as a passenger terminus and, after 1852, dealt only with goods.

Click on the map above for an enlarger image or click here for a larger, readable image (slow download).