Unexpected urban charm in London's vibrant Croydon district
Top reasons to visit Croydon
- Diverse Entertainment: Croydon boasts theatres and a lively shopping district, providing ample entertainment options for all visitors.
- Historical Attractions: Explore landmarks like Croydon Palace, blending historical significance with contemporary culture.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy scenic walks, golf courses, and urban parks for a refreshing escape in nature.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The town offers various attractions and activities suited for families and city explorers alike.
- Welcoming Accommodations: A range of hotels and guesthouses cater to diverse needs, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels near Croydon
Explore a delightful selection of accommodations in Croydon, ranging from hotels to charming guesthouses, each designed to cater to diverse needs. Whether you're visiting for business, leisure, or a welcoming LGBTQIA experience, you'll find numerous options, including EasyHotel Croydon and luxurious stays. With various hotel reviews to guide your choice, Croydon promises a comfortable and enjoyable retreat for every traveller.
- Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge: Located a short distance from Croydon, the Park Plaza London Westminster Bridge is a distinguished 4-star hotel offering a luxurious spa-themed experience. With a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, this hotel is ideal for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. The property features a full-service spa, complete with steam rooms and treatment rooms, allowing guests to unwind after a day of exploration. Pet-friendly amenities, including food and water bowls, make it a welcoming choice for animal lovers. Business travellers will also appreciate the convenient facilities tailored to their needs, ensuring a seamless stay.
- The Tower Hotel, by Thistle: Just a stone’s throw from Croydon, The Tower Hotel, by Thistle is a 4-star establishment boasting an eco-certified status and a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10. This hotel is designed for environmentally conscious travellers, featuring sustainable practices that enhance your stay while protecting the planet. Its prime location offers stunning views and easy access to London’s vibrant attractions, making it a perfect base for those looking to explore the city while adhering to eco-friendly principles.
- Strand Palace Hotel: Situated approximately 14km from Croydon, the Strand Palace Hotel is another excellent 4-star option with a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Like The Tower Hotel, it is eco-certified, catering to those who prioritise sustainability during their travels. The hotel combines modern comfort with a commitment to reducing its environmental impact, ensuring guests can enjoy a pleasant stay while being mindful of their carbon footprint. Its central location provides easy access to a variety of cultural and historical landmarks, making it a convenient choice for tourists.
Where to stay in Croydon
Exploring Croydon offers a delightful mix of urban charm and family-friendly experiences. The vibrant Croydon town centre is perfect for shopping and dining, while a stroll through South Croydon reveals quaint streets and local gems. Don't miss a scenic walk from the centre of Croydon, where friendly locals enhance the welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Croydon and its surrounding areas promise a memorable getaway.
- London: As a vibrant metropolis, London is an essential stop for any visitor. Situated within the Greater London area, Croydon is well-connected to the city's extensive public transport network. Travellers flock to London for its rich cultural experiences, with peak visitor numbers occurring in the summer months and in October. Explore iconic shopping areas, enjoy world-class theatre performances, or visit renowned arenas for live entertainment. The city is dotted with urban parks and symbolic landmarks, making it a delightful blend of city life and green spaces.
- South Croydon: Just 1km from Croydon, South Croydon is a charming suburb that offers a friendly, local atmosphere. Visitor numbers peak in the spring and summer, particularly from April to July. This area is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts, with popular spots like local markets and golf courses. South Croydon features beautiful parks and notable bridges, making it an inviting place for leisure walks and picnics, while still being close enough to the bustling city life.
- Fairfield: Nestled around Croydon, Fairfield is a neighbourhood that combines urban convenience with outdoor pleasures. With a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, it attracts families and city explorers alike, especially during the summer and autumn months. Fairfield boasts shopping centres and amusement rides, providing fun for all ages. With its impressive urban parks and sports facilities, visitors can enjoy both relaxation and active pursuits in this lively community.
Things to do near Croydon
Shopping
Croydon offers a vibrant shopping scene with the Whitgift Centre, featuring a variety of high street brands. For a local experience, visit the Surrey Street Market for unique finds. If you're up for a drive, the Centrale Shopping Centre is also nearby, boasting an array of shops and eateries.
Recreation
Explore the serene atmosphere at the Crystal Palace Spa, where you can indulge in luxurious treatments and unwind in a tranquil setting. For outdoor relaxation, visit Lloyd Park to enjoy picturesque gardens and peaceful walking paths, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Brands Hatch Circuit, located 24km from Croydon, where adrenaline meets speed. For a unique perspective of the skyline, take a ride on the IFS Cloud Royal Docks Station cable car, situated 16km away, offering stunning views. For an adventurous day out, head to Stubbers Activity and Adventure Centre, 31km from Croydon, where you can tackle exciting zip lines and ropes courses.
Nightlife
In Croydon, the Boxpark offers a vibrant atmosphere with street food and live music, while the Spread Eagle pub showcases a lively mix of craft beers and comedy nights. For clubbing, the Liquid & Envy combines a dynamic dance scene with themed nights to keep the energy high.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Croydon
To save money during your visit to Croydon, plan your trip between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, and consider Sundays for the cheapest stays. For transport, utilise buses, trains, and trams, and take advantage of free attractions like Big Ben and The Shard. Use Expedia to find package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for added savings, and check for last-minute discounts to snag a bargain.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Croydon are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Croydon is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Croydon is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay in Croydon is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and ideal type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Croydon with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions near Croydon
Croydon is an excellent destination for families and city-themed outdoor vacations. Visitors can explore various points of interest, including urban parks, streets, and churches that showcase the local culture. Notable attractions include Croydon Palace and Boxpark Croydon, offering a blend of historical and contemporary experiences. Whether you seek cultural immersion or outdoor activities, Croydon has something to cater to all travellers.
- Buckingham Palace: A regal residence with stunning architecture, Buckingham Palace is a must-visit for its cultural significance. Witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony and explore the surrounding gardens, offering a glimpse into British royal life.
- Tower Bridge: An iconic symbol of London, Tower Bridge features a unique combination of bascule and suspension design. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Thames and the city from the glass-floored walkway, making it a fascinating experience.
- Big Ben: Renowned for its impressive clock tower, Big Ben stands as a beacon of British culture. The surrounding area is vibrant, with opportunities to admire the historical architecture and soak in the bustling atmosphere of Westminster.
Best time to go to Croydon
The best time to visit Croydon is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Croydon
Accessing Croydon is convenient via its major airports. London Heathrow (LHR) is situated 26km away, with luxurious hotels such as Sofitel London Heathrow, 3km from the airport, and Great Fosters, 10km away. London Gatwick (LGW) is even closer at 24km, offering excellent accommodation including Alexander House And Utopia Spa, 8km away, and the Windfalls Boutique Hotel, just 5km from the airport. For those considering London Stansted (STN), located 63km from Croydon, notable stays include the Radisson Blu Hotel, a mere 322m from the terminal, and Novotel London Stansted Airport, 3km away. Each hotel provides easy transportation access to their respective airports.