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BEULAH in 1843 from "Excursions to the Principal Mineral Waters of England, in pursuit of Health and Information" (James Johnson MD, 1843)
At the short distance of seven or eight miles from the metropolis, (rendered now still nearer by a rail-road,) lies a recent Spa, of no mean power, in a spot elevated several hundred feet above the Thames, and commanding a magnificent view of one of the most beautiful and Champagne countries in the world. The spring itself rises on a gentle acclivity open to the South-west, and em-bosomed in a wood of oaks, far above the fogs and smoke of the metropolis, on the spires and cupolas of which it looks down. Norwood, even in the memory of some now alive, was a dense forest of oaks, the well-known haunt of the gypsy tribes, but now agriculture and architecture have entirely changed the appearance of this romantic spot. Since Dr. Weatherhead published a small brochure on Norwood and Beulah, in 1835, the place has wonderfully improved. The walks have been amplified - elegant villas now crown every eminence - ornamented cottages, without number, adorn every slope - while numerous villages nestle in every dell. Churches have sprung up to prepare man for another world. and a superb cemetery stretched far and wide along the side of a hill for the abode of his lifeless clay, till the last trump shall sound. The view from the highest ground and promenades is very extensive, embracing Croydon, Banstead Downs, Windsor Castle, and the beautiful range of the Surrey and Hampshire hills on the southern horizon. Turning to the left, the eye ranges over Addiscombe, the Addington Hills, the park and seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury, Seven Oaks, Beckenham, Shooter's Hill, &c. &c. Northward, the metropolitan spires pierce through their canopy of smoke, and we gladly extend our view to Hampstead, Highgate, and the surrounding heights. I have not seen a single spa in this or in any other country, so delightfully situated as Beulah. Most of them rise in narrow valleys or even steep defiles, with a corresponding heat and sultriness of atmosphere: whereas, Beulah is high and open, with a most delicious and exhilarating air, a boundless prospect, and charming scenery. The famous Beulah Spa by Colin Evans |
