Around 127 parks and green spaces give Croydon a green side that sits alongside the city’s history. From wetlands and woodland to a former airport terminal, there are discoveries to suit a wide range of interests. The routes between them also tell a story about Croydon’s character: they range from illustrated walks through neighbourhoods to a designated cycle route through a nature park.
Green spaces and routes
South Norwood Country Park combines wildflower meadows and wetlands with a lake and a viewpoint hill. Designated a local nature reserve, it is home to a diverse range of birdlife: more than 100 bird species are recorded there each year. A designated cycle route runs through the park and forms part of the Water Link Way. Those interested in Croydon’s nature and designated routes will find several different aspects in one place.
Another natural area is Croham Hurst, an extensive woodland site of historical and natural interest designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). A public bridleway and footpath runs along its north-eastern boundary. Wandle Park offers an urban contrast: the four-hectare park is in the town centre, and the River Wandle flows through it. Its facilities include a play area, skatepark, trim trail and tennis courts, as well as a rose garden, pond, bandstand and community garden.
Croydon offers illustrated routes for walks through neighbourhoods and to historic landmarks. Online maps and printable fold-out maps help with navigation. This lets you explore the city through a particular neighbourhood or historic destination, with different walks offering different points of focus.
From aviation history to the Old Palace
Croydon Airport Visitor Centre is a small, volunteer-run museum in Airport House. The building was Britain’s first integrated airport terminal with a control tower. When the terminal opened in 1928, it was also the world’s first purpose-built airport terminal. The site’s history can therefore be explored through a distinctive architectural feature and a specific historical date.
There are specific access arrangements for visits: the Visitor Centre is open on the first Sunday of each month, by advance booking, as part of a guided tour. Allow about an hour for the tour and up to 30 minutes afterwards to explore the museum independently. As official access arrangements may change, it is advisable to check them before visiting.
Shirley Windmill also tells a story of Croydon’s past. Built by Richard Alwen in 1854, the brick tower mill stands 17 metres tall and retains most of its original Victorian machinery. It offers the rare opportunity to see inside one of only four windmills in the capital open to the public. Opening dates may vary, so check them before your trip.
Further historic landmarks can be found in the centre. Croydon Minster has been a place of worship since Anglo-Saxon times; six Archbishops of Canterbury are buried there. The Minster was rebuilt under the direction of Sir George Gilbert Scott and reconsecrated in 1870. Old Palace Croydon, meanwhile, is considered the best-preserved example of a medieval palace of the Archbishops of Canterbury. Its south wing contains a long gallery built around 1539 to complete the south courtyard. The Great Hall is a medieval great hall and part of the former palace.
Market, museum and cultural programme
Surrey Street Market has been operating in Croydon town centre since 1276. In addition to the regular market, there are weekly events. As the events programme may change, it is worth checking the latest listings if a particular event is going to shape your visit.
The city’s cultural programme also includes a range of formats. Fairfield Halls hosts classical concerts, theatre, dance, comedy, exhibitions and conferences throughout the year; the programme changes regularly. David Lean Cinema is an independent 68-seat cinema run by volunteers and local film enthusiasts. Check the latest screenings if you are planning a cinema visit.
Museum of Croydon announces tours and outreach activities developed in partnership with libraries and community-focused projects. It welcomes visitors of all abilities and states that all areas are fully accessible. If you need specific arrangements, check the accessibility information before travelling.
Wandle Park and Boxpark Croydon offer another perspective on city life. The park’s community garden grows food crops and flowers; on Sundays, it is a place to talk about gardening and growing things together. Boxpark Croydon brings together international food and live sport in striking, converted shipping containers. The vendors and programme there may change.
Discover more destinations: Croydon, Thornton Heath, Kenley, Coulsdon, Lewisham, Sutton, Merton, Islington.
For the wider travel overview: Greater London.
