Discover Croydon | A Visitor's Introduction to Croydon

Why is Croydon Worth a Visit?

Croydon is worth visiting because it’s a perfect example of urban regeneration and cultural renewal. The town’s skyline is rapidly changing, with new high-rise buildings, modern housing developments, and revitalised public spaces. Yet, Croydon hasn’t lost sight of its roots and remains home to a strong community spirit and a sense of local pride. The eclectic mix of activities here includes everything from visiting contemporary art galleries and street food markets to relaxing in expansive green spaces like Lloyd Park. Croydon’s diverse food scene, vibrant nightlife, and unique attractions like the famous Boxpark make it an excellent alternative to central London’s more tourist-heavy destinations.

Croydon Highlights: Things to See and Do in Croydon

1. Boxpark Croydon: Boxpark Croydon is one of the town’s biggest draws and a focal point for dining and socialising. Made from converted shipping containers, this trendy food and events space offers a unique place to eat, drink, and hang out. You’ll find a wide selection of street food vendors serving everything from gourmet burgers and sushi to vegan delicacies and craft cocktails. Regular live music, DJ sets, and community events make Boxpark a lively destination both day and night. It’s a great spot to start your Croydon adventure, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a place to catch up with friends.

2. Croydon’s Street Art and Arts Quarter: Croydon’s art scene is booming, and nowhere is this more evident than in the town’s many street murals and galleries. The Croydon Arts Quarter, centred around St George’s Walk, is home to some incredible street art by renowned local and international artists. Take a self-guided walking tour to spot colourful murals and graffiti pieces that adorn walls, shutters, and alleys, turning the town centre into an open-air gallery. In addition to street art, the area hosts independent galleries like Riesco Gallery and Turf Projects, which showcase contemporary exhibitions and installations from up-and-coming artists.

3. Museum of Croydon: Situated within the Croydon Clocktower, the Museum of Croydon provides an insightful look into the town’s history, culture, and community. The museum’s exhibits trace Croydon’s development from a medieval market town to its modern-day status as a bustling urban centre. Artefacts, photographs, and interactive displays offer a glimpse into the lives of Croydon’s residents over the centuries. The Clocktower itself is an architectural gem, and the adjoining library and arts centre host regular events, talks, and workshops.

4. Wandle Park: A beautiful green oasis in the heart of the town, Wandle Park is perfect for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or family day out. The park, which is centred around the River Wandle, features landscaped gardens, a playground, and a skate park. There’s also a lake where you can spot ducks and swans, making it a lovely spot for nature lovers. During the summer, Wandle Park hosts community events, music festivals, and open-air theatre performances, adding to its appeal.

5. Croydon Minster: Croydon Minster is one of the town’s most historically significant buildings, with a heritage that dates back over 1,000 years. The current structure, largely rebuilt after a devastating fire in 1867, is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture. Step inside to see its impressive stained glass windows, grand organ, and memorials to notable figures. The Minster regularly holds classical music concerts, choral performances, and community events, offering a peaceful and culturally enriching experience for visitors.

6. Lloyd Park: Lloyd Park is Croydon’s largest park, covering over 114 acres of open meadows, woodlands, and sports facilities. It’s a fantastic place for a leisurely walk or cycle, with scenic trails and plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the natural surroundings. The park also hosts a number of community events and the popular annual Croydon Mela, which celebrates South Asian culture with live music, dance performances, and delicious food. The recently renovated café near the park’s entrance is perfect for a coffee or light lunch.

7. Matthews Yard: A cornerstone of Croydon’s cultural community, Matthews Yard is a unique arts and events space that supports local creatives. It offers a café, bar, and versatile performance area where you can enjoy anything from poetry readings and comedy shows to art exhibitions and live music. It’s a wonderful place to experience Croydon’s grassroots arts scene and to connect with the local community.

8. Fairfield Halls: Fairfield Halls, Croydon’s premier arts and entertainment venue, recently underwent a multi-million pound refurbishment and has reopened as a modern cultural centre. The venue includes a concert hall, theatre, and studio spaces, hosting an eclectic programme of events ranging from live music and stand-up comedy to theatre productions and dance performances. Fairfield Halls’ rich history includes performances by legends like The Beatles and Queen, making it a key destination for culture enthusiasts.

9. Whitgift Shopping Centre and Centrale: For those in need of some retail therapy, Croydon’s shopping districts won’t disappoint. The Whitgift Shopping Centre and Centrale, which are set to be redeveloped into the new Westfield Croydon, offer a variety of high-street shops, boutiques, and dining options. While plans for redevelopment are still underway, the area remains a convenient spot for shopping, browsing, and dining in central Croydon.

10. Addington Hills and Shirley Windmill: For panoramic views of Croydon and the London skyline, head to Addington Hills. This elevated area of parkland, just a short tram ride from the town centre, is popular with walkers and nature enthusiasts. The nearby Shirley Windmill, a 19th-century structure, is a fascinating place to learn about Croydon’s agricultural past and the history of milling. Guided tours of the windmill are available on select days and provide a unique insight into the area’s rural heritage.

Practical Advice for Visitors to Croydon

1. Getting There and Around: Croydon is exceptionally well-connected by public transport. East Croydon and West Croydon stations provide fast rail services to central London (Victoria and London Bridge in under 20 minutes) as well as Gatwick Airport and the South Coast. The London Overground also serves West Croydon, making it easy to access other parts of London. Trams run frequently between Beckenham Junction, Wimbledon, and Croydon’s town centre. Buses serve all major routes, and the town centre is best explored on foot, with most attractions within a short walking distance.

2. When to Visit: Croydon is a year-round destination, with plenty of indoor and outdoor activities. Spring and summer are the best times to enjoy the parks and outdoor events, such as the Croydon Food and Music Festival and the Croydon PrideFest. Winter brings festive lights and events to the town centre, making it a good time for a shopping trip or to catch a show at Fairfield Halls.

3. Where to Eat and Drink: Croydon’s food scene is diverse and offers everything from street food to fine dining. For breakfast or brunch, try The Breakfast Club at Boxpark or Mr Fox, a trendy gastropub with a focus on seasonal ingredients. For something more exotic, Anabella’s Kitchen serves delicious Mediterranean dishes, while Thanh’s Bistro is a hidden gem offering authentic Vietnamese cuisine. For drinks, head to The Store in South Croydon for craft beers and cocktails, or check out Art & Craft for a relaxed bar atmosphere.

4. Safety and Accessibility: Croydon is generally safe, but as with any urban area, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly at night. The main shopping areas and transport hubs are well-lit and busy, but quieter residential areas should be navigated with usual caution. Most venues in Croydon, including Boxpark, Fairfield Halls, and the Clocktower, are accessible to people with disabilities, with ramps, lifts, and accessible toilets available.

6. Local Events and Festivals: Croydon hosts several exciting events throughout the year. The Croydon Food and Music Festival, usually held in summer, brings together the best of the area’s food and drink with live music. The Croydon Mela celebrates South Asian culture, while Croydon PrideFest is one of the largest LGBTQ+ events in South London. The Fairfield Halls also offer a packed calendar, so check local listings to see what’s on during your visit.