I’m Richard Treadwell, a communications consultant from Honor Oak Park, and a volunteer walk leader for MenWalkTalk.
How long have you lived in the area?
I’ve lived in SE London since 2006 – originally in East Dulwich and in Honor Oak Park for the last 13 years.
What has changed most during that time?
The opening of the Overground (Windrush) line in Honor Oak Park has been transformative in so many ways.
What do you most value about the area/street you live in?
The community feel. I know it’s a cliche, but Honor Oak Park often feels like a village.
Do you belong to any groups?
I volunteer for a charity called MenWalkTalk, hosting monthly walks around the area. Men often try to tackle mental health issues alone, so the charity aims to provide a supportive community for guys to know they’re not alone and can speak up. There’s no pressure to chat; you can simply turn up for a bit of company and exercise. But it can help just to hear that other people have faced similar challenges.
Where are you likely to be found on Saturday?
I host my MenWalkTalk session on the first Saturday of the month. Otherwise, I’m usually with my family making the most of the speedy links into the city, or shopping and eating locally.
What is your favourite place to eat?
Babur is simply the most amazing Indian restaurant. The food is fantastic, the cocktails are cracking, and the service is second to none.
Coffee or tea? Where?
Coffee! If I’m drinking in, it’s got to be Two Spoons.
What’s your favourite place to go for a drink?
Staying local, I like The Chandos Pub in Honor Oak Park. There’s always a friendly vibe and the first-floor terrace is great in the summer. The pizzas are also pretty great too if you’re hungry!
Where’s your favourite place to walk?
There are so many green spaces around, but my favourite is One Tree Hill. I love the fact you have to ‘earn’ the view from the top. I usually make this the first part of my monthly MenWalkTalk sessions and I’m often surprised that people don’t know about it.
When I want to relax…
I book a massage at Honor Oak Wellness Rooms or take a walk.
What is your favourite shop?
Marvellous Greens and Beans! I stop here to pick up a coffee or fruit and veg. The guys who run the place are just so friendly and do a lot for the community too – it’s been a fantastic addition to the neighbourhood over the past few years.
What was the last thing you bought there?
Two coffees, a croissant, and some sourdough bread.
Join Richard for a walk and talk on the first Saturday of each month in Honor Oak. Sign up online.
https://menwalktalk.co.uk/walks/ola/services/honor-oak-park-walk-talk