Why Croydon Deserves More Attention
For too long, Croydon has been dismissed as just another South London suburb, but this dynamic borough is quietly building a reputation as one of London’s most exciting cultural and culinary destinations. The birthplace of both air traffic control and Stormzy, and currently undergoing an ambitious £5 billion redevelopment which will see a new Westfield shopping centre and train station take root, Croydon certainly has a lot going for it. No wonder it’s begun welcoming – for better or for worse – venture capitalists, tech experts, software developers and a whole host of startups, earning it the title of ‘South London’s Silicon Valley’. This transformation has brought with it an incredible diversity of food, culture, and experiences that rival anything Central London has to offer – but without the eye-watering prices. From award-winning restaurants serving authentic international cuisine to hidden speakeasies and stunning green spaces, Croydon is a treasure trove waiting to be discovered.
Best Parks & Outdoor Walks in Croydon
Lloyd Park
Lloyd Park (also known as Lloyd Country Park) is a 114 acres (46 ha) park on the outskirts of central Croydon, Greater London, managed by the London Borough of Croydon. This isn’t your typical manicured city park – Lloyd Park feels more like a slice of countryside in the heart of South London. The park is not enclosed, as would typically be the case for suburban parks. Coombe Road is bordered by a low hedge and grass-covered earth banks have been raised along the open Lloyd Park Avenue side to deter vehicular access. It is open 24 hours a day throughout the year.
What makes Lloyd Park special is its natural diversity. Towards the northern edge of the park is an area known as The Squashes, where a line of springs emerge during wet weather, the most frequent being Rippingill. The park offers everything from rugby and football pitches, bowls, hard court tennis, children’s playground, car parking, cafe, open-air gymnasium, disc golf, changing rooms and facilities, orienteering, cross country courses, horse riding and a pond. Lloyd Park hosts Lloyd parkrun every Saturday morning at 9 am and Lloyd junior parkrun every Sunday morning at 9 am.
Addington Hills
For those seeking more dramatic landscapes, Addington Hills is a large natural area that rises from Oaks Road up to a high plateau. Addington Hills is open all the time. Car parking – off Shirley Hills Road and Oaks Road, at the junction with Coombe Lane This elevated woodland offers some of the best views in South London and provides excellent walking trails through ancient woodland. The hills are perfect for a morning jog or peaceful afternoon walk, with well-maintained paths that suit all fitness levels.
Affordable Cafes & Street Food
BOXPARK Croydon
You can’t mention Croydon without bringing up Boxpark — after all it’s staring you right in the mush, as you step out of East Croydon station. It’s a strong lunch option, especially if you’re in a group who all fancy eating different things. Our out-and-out fave here are the butter chicken paratha wraps from Thela, but no doubt you’ll find your own hero dish. Choose from Crust Bros pizza, burgers from Vegan Shack, Caribbean pies from Marjays, Kanji’s bibimbap — and so much more. Find almost every cuisine imaginable at BOXPARK Croydon alongside a calendar of diverse events including, movie screenings, live music, creative workshops, art exhibitions, spoken word and comedy nights, an indoor market and much more.
Surrey Street Market
Surrey Street is an excellent place to source lunch. Vans and stalls park up daily, serving jerk chicken, Thai curries, veggie Ethiopian wat, empanadas and more — all reasonably priced. This historic market has been serving Croydon for over 800 years and remains one of the best places to grab authentic, affordable street food. The variety is staggering – you can start with a proper Ethiopian vegetarian stew and finish with Caribbean jerk chicken, all for under £10.
Surrey Cafe
For a proper old-school experience, Surrey Street’s market traders who’ve been up since the crack of dawn can be found hunched over fry ups in the Surrey Cafe. The Dorchester this place ain’t, but at as little as a fiver for a hearty scran, you can hardly complain. This no-frills cafe serves massive breakfast portions that could fuel you for the entire day.
Aera Coffee House
Opening in June 2024, the japandi-inspired Aera Coffee House is a stylish new addition to Croydon’s coffee shop scene, nestled in a cozy ground floor unit of Enclave Croydon. This sleek new spot brings minimalist Japanese aesthetics to Croydon’s coffee scene, offering expertly crafted drinks in a serene setting.
Unique Bars & Nightlife in Croydon
Bishops Wine Bar
And now, may we let you into one of Croydon’s great secrets: Bishops Wine Bar. Hidden away in a dingy alley just outside the Whitgift Centre, locating this place is a skill in itself, but if you want to find it badly enough, you will. With horse racing on the TV, a fiercely local clientele, and a resident cat who slinks about like he owns the joint, Bishops hasn’t changed since it opened at the end of the 70s, and we love it all the more for it. Opening times are capricious at best, so good luck! This is Croydon’s best-kept secret – a proper hidden gem that feels like stepping back in time.
Art & Craft CR0
Art & Craft CR0 is an independent craft beer bar with the work of emerging and established artists on the walls and brilliant craft beer on tap. A stationery shop turned independent bar in central Croydon selling craft beer, cider and spirits as well as cake and coffee. DJs perform on Friday and Saturday nights and there are occasional special events including open deck nights and art exhibitions. This unique venue perfectly captures Croydon’s creative spirit.
Basil & Grape
Elsewhere in town, eschew the generic Pizza Express for Basil and Grape — a vine-ensconced trattoria on George Street with funtime vibes (the staff are wonderful), Italian cocktails and delicious Roman-style ‘pinsa’ pizzas loaded with exciting toppings including one with walnuts and pears. As with much of Croydon, you get real bang for your buck here. An authentic Italian restaurant and wine bar in Croydon, Basil & Grape serves artisan pizza and paninis, salad and Italian sharing boards with a handpicked selection of fine wines. From bottomless prosecco Sunday to wine down Wednesday, the bar and restaurant is a haven for any wine-lover.
Playground Cocktail Bar
Found just shy of South Croydon train station, Playground is a cocktail bar in Croydon that refuses to be bound by the rules. From unique servings to creative flavours, you can find a whole menu of ‘out there’ drinks right here. This innovative cocktail spot pushes boundaries with creative presentations and unexpected flavor combinations.
Energy Croydon
Prepare to be immersed in a world of pulsing music, explosive performances, and an atmosphere that will have you buzzing with excitement at Energy Croydon. For those looking to dance the night away, this club delivers high-energy entertainment with a diverse music program.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in Croydon
Museum of Croydon
Explore Croydon’s history by visiting us for free in the Croydon Clocktower, open Wednesdays – Saturdays. The Museum of Croydon, located in the heart of Croydon, offers visitors a captivating journey through the rich history and diverse culture of the area. The museum regularly hosts family-friendly workshops and activities, making local history accessible and engaging for children.
Croydon Airport Visitor Centre
Croydon Airport Visitor Centre micro-museum- located in Airport House, Purley Way, Croydon CR0 0XZ. Open on the 1st Sunday of the month throughout the year. Historical aviation museum with guided tours, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities. Explores the genesis of commercial flight and air traffic control. This fascinating museum tells the story of Croydon’s role as London’s first major airport and the birthplace of air traffic control.
Shirley Windmill
Restored almost to working condition Windmill. Souvenirs and refreshments available. For Open Days and further information please see our website. Open on Mills Day in May and Open House/City London This beautifully restored 18th-century windmill offers family tours and special events throughout the year.
Flip Out Croydon
Enjoy a 3 Hour Experience inside our arena. Have full access to all attractions and areas during your session – the ultimate indoor experience! Enjoyable for all ages – perfect for families, children This massive trampoline park offers hours of bouncing fun for the whole family, perfect for rainy days or burning off energy.
Si5 SpyMissions
Si5 SpyMissions is the ultimate spy adventure! Are you ready to put your spy skills to the test and embark on a top-secret mission? Look no further than our incredible kids party venue, where we offer immersive spy-themed experiences that let families work together to complete secret missions.
Adventure Golf & Family Entertainment
18 holes of fun-packed, Florida-style adventure golf! Fun for all the family. Perfect destination for children’s parties Lumbering, snorting, fire breathing, great wing flapping, long tail shaking Several venues around Croydon offer themed mini-golf experiences that transport families to different worlds.
Final Thoughts
Croydon is proof that London’s most exciting discoveries often lie just beyond the tourist trail. This vibrant borough offers everything from world-class international cuisine and innovative cocktail bars to stunning green spaces and fascinating museums – all at a fraction of Central London prices. Whether you’re seeking authentic street food at Surrey Street Market, discovering hidden speakeasies like Bishops Wine Bar, or exploring the natural beauty of Lloyd Park and Addington Hills, Croydon rewards those curious enough to venture south of the river.
The ongoing £5 billion regeneration is only adding to Croydon’s appeal, but the real magic lies in its authentic community spirit and diverse cultural offerings that have evolved organically over decades. From the artistic energy of places like Art & Craft CR0 to the family-friendly attractions like the Museum of Croydon and Shirley Windmill, this is a borough that offers genuine experiences without the pretense.
What’s your favorite hidden gem in Croydon? Have you discovered any spots that locals keep secret? Share your Croydon recommendations – this dynamic borough always has more treasures waiting to be uncovered!