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London Borough Of Croydon

Attractions and Places To See around the London Borough Of Croydon - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around the London Borough Of Croydon offers a diverse landscape, featuring historical landmarks, expansive green spaces, and vibrant cultural sites. The borough provides a variety of engaging places to explore, from ancient woodlands and serene parks to cultural hubs. Visitors can find panoramic views of the London skyline and numerous walking paths. The area caters to interests in history, nature, and contemporary culture.

Best attractions and places to see around the London Borough Of Croydon

  • The most popular attractions is Farthing Downs Scenic Road, a viewpoint that offers great views of the City in the distance. This scenic road is popular for cycling and provides a quiet route through the landscape.
  • Another must-see spot is Skid Hill Lane to Hesiers Road Climb, a viewpoint and cycle way. This route is a popular cycling climb from South East London into the North Downs, known for its calm ascent.
  • Visitors also love Shirley Heath Bridleway, a multi-use cycle way. This well-used bridleway is suitable for off-road cyclists and hikers, offering an alternative to road routes through the forest.
  • London Borough Of Croydon is known for its historical landmarks, expansive green spaces, and cultural sites. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including ancient woodlands, serene parks, and vibrant cultural hubs.
  • The attractions around the London Borough Of Croydon are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 280 upvotes and 77 photos shared across 51 highlights.

Last updated: May 26, 2026

Farthing Downs Scenic Road

Highlight (Segment) • Viewpoint

Great view of the City in distance, cattle are roaming free, enjoyable from both ends

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Shirley Heath Bridleway

Highlight • Cycleway

Can get very muddy

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Beddlestead Lane Climb

Highlight (Segment) • Climb

This is a long, but gentle uphill climb where you are treated to some lovely views at the top.

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Fox Hill 20% Climb

Highlight • Climb

nice little urban road climb close to the Crystal Palace Triangle

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Farleigh Chalk Gravel Track

Highlight (Segment) • MTB Park

Flat pack, chalky gravel. Can get a quite rough (cobbles!) at the southern end but can be ridden fast on a gravel or MTB setup. Mind the golf balls and the golf carts!

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Bluebells in Littleheath Woods

Highlight • Natural

Littleheath Woods, also known as ‘Selsdon’s secret wood’, is a pretty woodland at all times of year. In spring, the woods burst to life with bluebells, wood anemone, yellow archangel, primrose, wood sorrell, celandine and cherry blossom. In summer, the woods transform with brambles, honeysuckle and ferns. In autumn, expect glorious gold reds and yellows, plus plenty of fungi. In winter, the woods take on an enchanted atmosphere, especially after snowfall.

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Selsdon Wood

Highlight • Forest

Selsdon Wood, often referred to as the ‘Bird sanctuary’, is a tranquil nature reserve that is spectacular to explore at all times of year. In the care of the National Trust, the woodland is home to many species of birds, insects, wildflowers and fungi. A team of dedicated volunteers manages the woodland to make it an optimal habitat for a magnitude of flora and fauna.

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Frith Wood Climb

Highlight (Segment) • Climb

Challenging gravel climb, mainly loose gravel / small rock track. Track is well used but quite rutted. Best suited to an MTB or a gravel bike with a good gear range. Great access route up to the chalky stretch of semi compact gravel that is Farleigh GC.

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Kenley Common & RAF Kenley

Highlight • Historical Site

1.8 mile surfaced loop around Kenley Airfield with information boards about the history as an RAF airfield in the Battle of Britain. Great place for kids learning to ride or just for a smooth flat ride away from roads and muddy bridleways. You can ride on the airfield itself when not in use by the gliding club and the gates are open but otherwise use the wide surfaced path around the outside, surrounded by the greenery of Kenley Common.

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Muddy Bridleway

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Lots of fun - mud well worked by the horses

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Popular around London Borough Of Croydon

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Road Cycling Routes around the London Borough Of Croydon

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London LOOP — Hiking a ring of greenspaces around the capital

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Tips from the Community

Sasha
July 10, 2025, Muddy Bridleway

I did enjoy that ride

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Some of this section is great, some is very rooty and has large loose cobblestone. Suitable for MTB. not so much for <35mm tyres.

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Nice shortcut from spout hill towards west wickham but its abit mad in the dark. Gets very muddy, you must keep an eye out for logs and dogs!

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Nice gentle climb with lovely views. Just watch out for the potholes on the descent northbound

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Quite technical, lots of chunky roots

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Magnificent road passing through fields and which offers you a view of the city. I crossed it in hot weather and it wasn't the best but it was still worth the detour and the climb is pretty good. hello gear 🤣

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A nice climb into and through the green belt, there is also a coffee/tea van selling beverages and snacks most weekends.

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Dan Hobson
June 11, 2021, Selsdon Wood

Selsdon Wood, often referred to as the ‘Bird sanctuary’, is a tranquil nature reserve that is spectacular to explore at all times of year. In the care of the National Trust, the woodland is home to many species of birds, insects, wildflowers and fungi. A team of dedicated volunteers manages the woodland to make it an optimal habitat for a magnitude of flora and fauna.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features and green spaces can I explore in the London Borough of Croydon?

The London Borough of Croydon offers a variety of natural features and green spaces. You can enjoy panoramic views of the London skyline from Farthing Downs Scenic Road or explore the diverse woodland walks at Addington Hills. Other notable green spaces include Wandle Park, Coombe Wood, Lloyd Park, and South Norwood Lake and Grounds. For ancient woodlands, visit Selsdon Wood, a tranquil nature reserve, or Littleheath Woods, known for its seasonal bluebells.

Are there good walking or hiking trails in the London Borough of Croydon?

Yes, the area provides various walking and hiking opportunities. You can find easy to moderate routes, such as the Farthing Downs and Happy Valley Nature Trail. For a multi-use path, consider Shirley Heath Bridleway, suitable for hikers and cyclists. For more options, explore the many easy hikes around the London Borough Of Croydon.

Where can I go cycling in the London Borough of Croydon?

Croydon offers several routes for cyclists. The Farthing Downs Scenic Road is popular for its quiet route and views. Cyclists also enjoy the Skid Hill Lane to Hesiers Road Climb, a well-known ascent into the North Downs. For off-road cycling, the Shirley Heath Bridleway is a good option. More challenging climbs include Fox Hill 20% Climb.

What historical landmarks can I visit in Croydon?

Croydon has a rich history reflected in its landmarks. The Croydon Clocktower complex houses the Museum of Croydon, while the historic Croydon Minster dates back to 960 AD. You can also visit the Grade II listed Park Hill Water Tower, the Shirley Windmill, or the Croydon Airport Visitor Centre, located in the world's oldest air traffic control tower. Kenley Common & RAF Kenley also offers historical significance.

Are there family-friendly attractions in the London Borough of Croydon?

Yes, many attractions in Croydon are suitable for families. Green spaces like Littleheath Woods and Selsdon Wood are great for nature walks. The Museum of Croydon offers engaging exhibits for all ages. Boxpark Croydon provides a vibrant atmosphere with diverse food options and events, which can be fun for families.

Where can I experience Croydon's cultural scene?

Croydon's cultural scene is vibrant and diverse. The Croydon Clocktower is a central hub, home to the Museum of Croydon and the David Lean Cinema. Fairfield Halls hosts a wide array of performances, from music to theatre. Boxpark Croydon offers a unique dining and entertainment experience with live events, and Matthews Yard is a creative space for art exhibitions and live music. The borough also boasts a lively street art scene with numerous murals.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in the London Borough of Croydon?

Visitors particularly enjoy the unexpected scenic beauty and tranquility found within the borough. Highlights like Farthing Downs Scenic Road are praised for their great views and peaceful cycling. The diverse natural landscapes, from ancient woodlands like Selsdon Wood to the seasonal beauty of Littleheath Woods, are also highly appreciated.

Are there any unique dining or entertainment spots in Croydon?

Absolutely. Boxpark Croydon is a unique dining and entertainment destination made from shipping containers, offering diverse food stalls, bars, and live events. The Ludoquist is a popular board game cafe with a vast selection of games, food, and drinks. For a wide range of culinary options, explore the South Croydon Restaurant Quarter.

Can I find viewpoints with panoramic vistas in Croydon?

Yes, you can find several spots offering panoramic views. Addington Hills provides stunning vistas of the London skyline. Farthing Downs Scenic Road is also known for its distant views of the City. These locations are popular for nature lovers and offer great photo opportunities.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural attractions in Croydon?

The natural attractions in Croydon offer beauty throughout the year. Spring is particularly vibrant, with Littleheath Woods bursting with bluebells and other wildflowers. Summer provides lush greenery in parks and woodlands. Autumn brings glorious gold, red, and yellow foliage, along with plenty of fungi. Even in winter, after snowfall, the woods take on an enchanted atmosphere.

Are there opportunities for birdwatching or wildlife spotting in Croydon's parks?

Yes, Croydon's green spaces are excellent for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Selsdon Wood Nature Reserve is known as a 'Bird sanctuary' and is home to many species of birds, insects, and wildflowers. South Norwood Lake and Grounds also provides a picturesque retreat ideal for birdwatching.

Where can I find information about Croydon's history and development?

The Museum of Croydon, located within the Croydon Clocktower, is dedicated to sharing the stories of Croydon's people and its transformation from a rural village to an urban center. It's an excellent place to learn about the borough's past and development. You can find more information about the Croydon Clocktower at croydon.gov.uk.

Most popular routes around the London Borough Of Croydon

Road Cycling Routes around the London Borough Of Croydon

Most popular attractions around the London Borough Of Croydon

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