13 Things to do in Croydon

Boxpark Croydon is an innovative ‘pop up’ hub of repurposed shipping containers that surround a central market hall with a covered seating area. Boxpark Croydon opened in 2016 and was an instant hit.

There are currently over 25 units which are focussed on food and drink, providing consumers with the opportunity to enjoy samples of many different cuisines. Boxpark is also used as a venue for music and cultural events but is the ideal place for an inexpensive, relaxed lunch with friends.

The best trampoline park in south London, Oxygen Freejumping has over 150 connected jumping areas for different abilities, a foam pit, and high-flying jumping zones.

If you’re in Croydon on a rainy day, it’s the perfect place for all the family to burn off some steam and expend energy in a fun way. Our tip is to get there as early as possible to avoid queuing as it can get busy.

Croydon is not known for its green spaces, but Wandle Park is a four-hectare Victorian park that is an exception to the rule and offers some leafy respite from the hustle and bustle of town life.

The park lies alongside the river and features a bandstand and cycling paths, as well as basketball and tennis courts, and a children’s play area. Throughout the year, it is used as a venue for many different events, so it’s always worth checking the council website to see what’s on.

The David Lean Cinema is one of Croydon’s hidden gems and is located in the Croydon Clocktower arts complex. There are 68 seats and a bar. The famous director, David Lean, was born in Croydon and this cinema was named after him in the nineties.

There is a lovely community feel in this intimate art-house cinema which is run by the people for the people. You can book tickets over the phone.

Surrey Street Market is a bustling, typically London market, which is reported to date back as far as the 13th century. It is open seven days a week and features stalls which mainly sell fresh fruit and vegetables, although an artisan market is available on Sundays.

Surrey Street Market is the largest market in Croydon and is known for its friendly atmosphere, range of independent traders and street food vendors. Our tip is to take your own bags with you to reduce plastic waste.

If you are interested in history, visiting The Museum of Croydon is a must, as it’s utterly absorbing. All the exhibits are housed in the Clockhouse, the town’s beautiful town hall. Many regard the Museum of Croydon as one of the finest small museums in London.

It prides itself on keeping the exhibits largely grounded in the experience of local individuals, making everything relatable, alongside original art – including works by Bridget Riley and Malcolm McLaren.

The museum is wonderfully curated and fascinating from beginning to end. The computerised system offers more information about each item and adds another layer to the visitor experience. Entrance is free, and the museum is open 11 am – 5 pm Monday – Saturday.

The Croydon Airport Visitor Centre is a fascinating micro-museum which opened in 2000.

Croydon Airport Visitor Centre is appropriately located in the world’s oldest Air Traffic Control Tower in Purley Way, Croydon. Designed by Haley Sharpe, it was presented with a British Tourism Award.

The exhibition space features interactive display, exhibits and visual images charting the history of Croydon Airport from World War I airfield, London’s international airport, and the Battle of Britain airfield and closure in 1959. Admission is free although donations are encouraged.

Locals love Croham Hurst, an ancient woodland of oak, hazel, birch and beech and a surprisingly steep hill that offers lovely views of the borough from the summit.

There is plenty of nature for the observant to admire, with many species of flora, fauna and rare fungi calling Croham Hurst home. There is free street parking by the entrance to the wood, which is about twenty minutes walk from the Lloyd Park tram stop.

The Whitgift Shopping Centre is a purpose-built mall that offers a modern shopping experience that is generally very enjoyable, especially in rainy weather. You will find plenty of shops, including most of the major high street brands, wide aisles and a great safe atmosphere. Easy to access from the huge car park.

Millers Pond is a four-acre park with a large ornamental pond that is a haven for wildlife. This is surrounded several large grassed areas where people are welcome to walk their dogs, feed the ducks, eat a picnic at one of the tables or simply sit and admire the natural tranquillity of the surroundings.

Feeding the ducks is a popular activity for all ages, but visitors are asked to follow the park guidelines to avoid inadvertently harming the birds. Watch out for the resident heron who can often be seen standing by the water’s edge.

Shirly Windmill is over 100 years old and is very well-maintained by passionate and extremely knowledgeable volunteers. We recommend visiting on an Open Day when you can have a free guided tour.

Shirley Windmill is family-friendly with outdoor seating, grass for children to play on and most importantly a visitor centre with refreshments including homemade cakes, a shop with above-average souvenirs and toilet. Well worth a visit.