Formerly a gas works,[2] the centre is a brownfield habitat incorporating the only existing sloping beach into Deptford Creek.

[3] Other habitats on the site include a pond, constructed in a project coordinated by the Creekside Education Trust in partnership with Lewisham College,[4] and a sandbank, built in 2001.

[3] In 2015 the Friend’s of Creekside scheme was launched to help fund the charity, develop on-site facilities, and raise local awareness of the nature reserve.

[3] The Creekside Discovery Centre is the only site in London on which the critically endangered small-flowered catchfly, a wildflower on the Plantlife Red List, has been identified.

[2] The Creekside Centre provides educational sessions for local schools, guided walks along Deptford Creek, special events for the public, and venue hire.