Crystal Palace Area Guide

Crystal Palace is a unique and vibrant neighborhood located in the boroughs of Bromley and Croydon, South London. Situated atop the historic Crystal Palace Park, the area derives its name from the iconic Crystal Palace, a grand glass and iron structure that once housed the Great Exhibition in Hyde Park before being relocated to the park in the 1850s. The neighborhood is known for its beautiful Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, and panoramic views of London. Crystal Palace Park itself is a vast green space with rolling hills, a serene lake, and various recreational facilities, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities and leisurely walks. The area also boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, with independent shops, art galleries, and a lively food and drink scene along the Crystal Palace Triangle. With its rich history, stunning surroundings, and vibrant community, Crystal Palace offers a unique and enchanting experience for residents and visitors alike.

Transport Links

Crystal Palace is located in south London and has great transport links. The main station in the area is Crystal Palace station which is served by Southern and Thameslink trains. The station provides direct services to London Victoria, London Bridge, and East Croydon. There are also several bus routes that serve the area including the 3, 122, 157, 202, 227, 249, 322, 358, 363, 410, 417, 432, 450, and N3.

Schools

There are several good schools in Crystal Palace including the outstanding-rated Rockmount Primary School, Paxton Primary School, and St. Joseph's Catholic Junior School.

Best Places to Eat

Crystal Palace is home to a wide range of restaurants and cafes serving cuisine from all over the world. Some of the top places to eat in the area include Joanna's Restaurant, which serves modern European cuisine, Crystal Palace Market, which offers fresh and seasonal dishes, and The Exhibition Rooms, which serves delicious pub fare.

Best Places to Drink

Crystal Palace has a great selection of pubs and bars, including the Westow House, which has a great selection of craft beers and live music events, and The Grape & Grain, which is a cosy pub that serves a range of ales and wines.

Local Activities

There are plenty of local activities to enjoy in Crystal Palace. The area is home to the Crystal Palace Park, which is a great place for outdoor activities such as jogging, walking, and cycling. There is also a children's farm, a maze, and a dinosaur trail within the park. For those interested in theatre, the Stanley Halls is a great venue that hosts a range of performances and events. Crystal Palace also has several gyms and fitness centres, including PureGym and The Pilates Room.

Landmarks

The most famous landmark in Crystal Palace is the Crystal Palace itself, which was originally built in Hyde Park for the Great Exhibition of 1851. The structure was later moved to the area and was destroyed by fire in 1936. There is now a statue of a dinosaur in the park that pays homage to the famous Dinosaur Court that was located in the Crystal Palace during the Victorian era.

Local History

Crystal Palace was named after the Crystal Palace that was located in the area from 1854 until its destruction in 1936. The area has a rich history, including a connection to the artist William Morris, who lived in the area for a time. The famous American writer Mark Twain also visited the area in 1872.

Views

Crystal Palace offers some stunning views of London, especially from the top of the hill in the park. From here, visitors can see the City of London and the Shard.

Yearly Events

Crystal Palace hosts several yearly events, including the Crystal Palace Overground Festival, which celebrates local music, arts, and culture. The festival takes place in June and is a great way to experience the local community. Additionally, the Crystal Palace International Film Festival is held in November and showcases independent films from around the world.