Croydon: Tourism, shopping and much more!
Croydon, a large town situated in South London, is known as one of the largest commercial districts in Greater London. Located in the historic county of Surrey, Croydon used to be an old Surrey market town on the road to London and Brighton. But then the 19th century started and the area became a popular spot for the suburban boom following the birth of London’s transportation system.
Regarding its name, most experts agree that Croydon is derived from the Anglo-Saxon croh, meaning "crocus", and denu, which means "valley".
Visitors to Croydon will find that the town’s weather is rather warm and temperate. But like the rest of the UK, the town also gets significant rainfall – it even rains during the driest month of the year.
Fortunately, a little rain doesn’t have to get in the way of Croydon’s various tourist attractions, like Wandle Park. Located in Croydon’s Broad Green Ward, this 21-acre park is a favourite among the local population (and tourists) for walking dogs, jogging, skateboarding, picnicking, etc. Part of its allure is the park’s bandstand, kids’ playground, ornamental garden, rose garden, pond, and numerous other attractions.
Or how about the Shirley Windmill, which is one of only four windmills that are accessible to Greater London’s public? This tower mill, built in 1854, presents guided tours to those interested in history and architecture – or just magnificent views!
Croydon: Map for shopping
Although Croydon isn’t filled to the brim with shopping malls, you can still find a few sweet spots for some retail therapy.
Like Whitgift Centre, a rather large shopping centre right in the town centre. Opened between 1968 and 1970, this 21,001 m² layout of retail space used to be known as Greater London’s biggest undercover shopping development until it was dethroned by Westfield London in 2008. Still, browse around and you’re sure to discover the odd sale or special discount at well-loved spots like Hawes & Curtis, Supercuts, WHSmith and others.
To see one of London’s current biggest covered retail designs, head over to Centrale Shopping Centre. Opened back in 2004, the centre’s design perfectly captures the magnificent views of West Croydon from the eastern windows (which include the IKEA Towers landmarks on Purley Way). Some of the shops found here include Flying Tiger, The Heart of Gaming, and River Island.
Over in Croydon’s Purley Way retail- and industrial area stands Valley Park Retail Centre. Interestingly, the centre was built (in 1992) on the site of former power stations, the first of which was built back in the late 19th century. Drop by and see what quirky finds you can discover at Dunelm, Fabb Furniture, Tapi and others.
Thanks to expert transport links, you’ll have no trouble finding The Glades, an out-of-town shopping centre a mere 26 minutes away in Bromley. Whether it’s gourmet food, high-street fashions or charming gifts you’re seeking, you’re sure to find them all at shops like Fat Face, Marks & Spencer, and Oliver Bonas.
Back in the heart of Croydon (in New Addington) we find the New Addington Market, a much more informal shopping spot. Located conveniently opposite the leisure centre with various shops and plenty of parking, the market is the ideal space for anybody interesting in clothing, toys, antiques, sports memorabilia, and loads more!
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