The Cricklewood farm giving neighbours somewhere to belong
Old buildings are often lost as neighbourhoods change. Clitterhouse Farm in Cricklewood shows why keeping them can matter.
Residents saved its outbuildings from demolition in 2014. The farm was also the birthplace of suffragette Gladice Keevil.
Today, Our Yard keeps the site in community use, with a café, garden, choir, pottery and activities for children. I visited on Saturday 3 October and met co-founder Paulette Singer, who was lovely.
With pubs closing, places beyond home and work where people can spend time together matter.
A small 2021 UCL student study, drawing on ten interviews and 23 survey responses, found participants described social contact and a stronger connection to the area. One said: “It’s a really good way to meet new people”.
On Our Yard’s website, artist Laura Hampshire also credits its support with helping her turn a hobby into a small business.
For me, there’s a lesson here for redevelopment: keep space for the people who already live there. I believe the farm should remain in community use.
Come along on Saturday 5 December 2026 and see it for yourself. Check Our Yard’s events page for details and booking.
Sources
React to this story
Keep the useful discoveries coming.
Get stories around your interests, with links to the evidence and context, in a free email on some Fridays.
See an example and sign up
