Living in Croydon - A Guide for 2024
Sitting in the vibrant heart of south-east London, Croydon is emerging from the shadows of its bustling neighbors and asserting itself as a prime location for city dwellers in London. Living in Croydon offers more than meets the eye, making it an ideal choice for those looking to balance work and leisure. A swift 20-minute train ride from East Croydon station places you right in the heart of London, underscoring Croydon's unbeatable location.
Croydon is currently experiencing a dynamic transformation, shedding its once drab reputation. This town is embracing a bright new era, characterised by striking transformations in its skyline and streetscape. The once prevalent stark brutalist architecture is now juxtaposed with vibrant new developments, signaling a fresh, modern outlook.
For those considering making their home here, apartments in Croydon are especially appealing. The area boasts a variety of modern living spaces, including Ten Degrees and Enclave, both bringing renters a new high style of living in the area, a draw for city workers and young families alike.
A standout feature of the local community is Boxpark Croydon, a revolutionary culinary hub that has transformed the local dining scene. This contemporary venue offers an eclectic mix of street food stalls, providing a culinary tour across continents without ever leaving Croydon. Each visit to Boxpark is an adventure, offering a diverse palette of international cuisines that promise to delight your taste buds.
And there's even more on the horizon for Croydon. With the much-anticipated Westfield redevelopment underway, the area is poised to further enhance its appeal, attracting a wave of new residents, businesses, and tourists. This is an exciting time to consider living in Croydon, as it reinvents itself as a vibrant, modern neighborhood that retains its unique character while boldly stepping into the future.
As you explore your options for apartments in Croydon, you'll find yourself drawn into a community that's not just living in the shadow of the capital but is a shining light in its own right. Whether you're a professional seeking a convenient city commute or a family looking for a lively, yet comfortable place to call home, Croydon offers a promising and exciting future.
Transport Links
When it comes to transport, Croydon stands out as one of the best-connected areas in south-east London. Its range of options and proximity to the capital makes it an appealing base for both professionals and families. Here's an overview of the transportation facilities the town offers.
East Croydon Station:
This major station serves as the primary hub, with fast services running directly to central London in 20 minutes. Trains also connect Croydon to the south coast, Gatwick Airport and other parts of the UK.
West Croydon Station:
This offers services to London Victoria, London Bridge and other parts of London, and provides the area with routes to Surrey and further afield.
Tramlink:
Croydon’s ram network provides an eco-friendly and efficient way to get around the area. Their routes not only serve Croydon but connect it with areas like Wimbledon, Beckenham, and New Addington, making commuting within the borough and nearby smooth and easy.
Busses:
A vast number of bus routes operate in and around Croydon. These routes not only facilitate movement within the borough but also ensure that neighbouring areas and central London are easily accessible.
Food and Drink
Basil and Grape - Italian
Aiming to bring ‘a touch a class and something different to the heart of Croydon’, Basil & Grape is an Italian restaurant and wine bar offering great food and a selection of Italy’s finest labels. Its stunning, rustic wooden interior is the perfect setting to enjoy a platter of imported Italian meats and cheeses with a bottle of wine expertly paired to your meal by dedicated staff. We recommend gathering a few friends and visiting on a Wednesday evening, where the restaurant will give you a free bottle of wine for every £30 you spend!
Galicia Croydon - Spanish
For a genuine taste of Spain amidst the lively vibes of a tapas bar, Galicia's promises a proper fiesta.
The Mediterranean is brought to life with blue tiles gracing the walls, instantly transporting you to sunny shores. Their vast menu boasts familiar favourites such as paella and patatas bravas, complemented by some timeless traditional dishes.
No authentic Spanish experience is complete without the right drink. At Galicia’s, choose from a rich selection of wines to accompany your meal. Or, for that Barcelona feel, why not indulge in a jug of sangria, letting the atmosphere and imagined sunshine wash over you? Cheers to Spanish delights!
Box Park - Streetfood
Craving a culinary adventure that's a cut above the rest in London? Look no further than Boxpark in Croydon! A modern-day foodie haven, Boxpark serves up an incredible selection of street food from all corners of the globe. Whether you fancy a zesty taco, a spicy curry, or a gourmet burger, there's a stall waiting to tantalise your taste buds. Beyond its vibrant flavours, the lively atmosphere and communal seating make it a perfect spot to gather with friends and soak in the buzz. Ditch the usual and dive into the diverse delights at Boxpark – a true testament to Croydon's evolving food scene. Don't miss out; come and savour the street food sensation!
Leisure
Museum of Croydon
The Museum of Croydon tells the stories of the lives of town residents dating from the arrival of the Anglo-Saxons through to the present day. With its collections, archives, and innovative exhibitions (often led by local artists), the museum helps visitors to conserve, celebrate and interpret Croydon’s rich cultural heritage. Its permanent exhibition provides a truly exceptional interactive learning experience with its display of diverse materials and stories, including a classic Trojan Bubble Car and the Bones of Croydon.
Oxygen Freejumping
Looking for an activity that stands out from the usual London offerings? Oxygen Freejumping in Croydon has got you covered! This trampoline park offers a unique blend of exhilarating airborne fun and fitness. Whether you're a seasoned jumper or just looking for a fun day out with family or friends, Oxygen Freejumping caters to all ages and abilities. Dive into foam pits, test your skills on the obstacle course, or simply bounce to your heart's content. A hop, skip, and a jump away from the typical London experience, it's a must-visit for those seeking a different kind of thrill in the capital's vicinity. Dive in and experience the high-flying fun!
Wandle park
One of the biggest perks of living in Croydon is the abundance of open green space. While honourable mentions go to Croham Woods and Addington Hills, we recommend Wandle Park if you’re looking for the perfect place to walk the dog, enjoy a picnic, or simply find some respite after a busy week. It includes plenty of amenities for families, an old-fashioned bandstand, ornamental gardens, and beautiful vistas along the banks of the river Wandle (which runs through the centre of the park).
Is it for you?
Fancy a well-connected spot in south-east London with plenty on offer to eat, drink and explore? Croydon's your answer! With speedy trains to the heart of the city, trams that whisk you around the borough, and a gateway to global adventures with Gatwick Airport nearby, Croydon's transport links are unbeatable.
But that's not all – we at Home Made have some stunning apartments waiting just for you in this vibrant area. Why not have a look? You can find them here.