Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA
Crystal Palace Park
Crystal Palace Park is a Victorian pleasure ground located in the South London suburb of Crystal Palace which surrounds the site of the former Crystal Palace Exhibition building.
Location
About
Crystal Palace Park is a must-visit destination for tourists exploring London, England. This 200-acre park located in the south of London boasts a rich history, stunning natural beauty, and a variety of attractions that make it a unique and enjoyable experience.
One of the main highlights of Crystal Palace Park is the Crystal Palace itself. The palace was originally built in 1851 to house the Great Exhibition, a world's fair showcasing the industrial and cultural achievements of the time. Although the original palace was destroyed by fire in 1936, the park now features a full-scale replica of the iconic building, providing visitors with a glimpse of the grandeur and extravagance of the Victorian era.
The park's natural beauty is equally impressive, with sprawling lawns, lakes, and woodlands providing visitors with a tranquil and peaceful environment to relax and unwind. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and various bird species, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
In addition to its natural beauty and rich history, Crystal Palace Park also offers a range of attractions and activities that will keep visitors of all ages entertained. The park's dinosaur sculptures are a particular highlight, with life-size models of these prehistoric creatures scattered throughout the park.
The park also features a maze, a children's farm, and a playground, making it an ideal destination for families with children. Sports enthusiasts will also appreciate the park's facilities, which include a sports centre, football pitches, and tennis courts.
Crystal Palace Park is easily accessible by public transport, with a number of bus and train routes serving the area. The park is open year-round and admission is free, making it an affordable and accessible destination for all visitors.
In conclusion, Crystal Palace Park is a true gem in the heart of London, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and fun activities for visitors of all ages. If you are planning a trip to London, make sure to add this park to your list of must-visit destinations!
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Things to do nearby
Crystal Palace Park is a beautiful green space in southeast London, located in the London Borough of Bromley. The park covers an area of 80 hectares and is known for its diverse range of attractions and activities that cater to the interests of visitors of all ages. From historic landmarks to adrenaline-pumping adventures, here are some of the top places and things to do in and around Crystal Palace Park from a tourist perspective.
1. Crystal Palace Dinosaurs
One of the biggest draws to the park is the famous Crystal Palace Dinosaurs. These prehistoric sculptures, created by the sculptor Benjamin Waterhouse Hawkins in the 1850s, were the world's first-ever dinosaur models. Visitors can take a self-guided tour around the park and see the sculptures, which include the likes of a giant iguanodon, a megalosaurus, and a plesiosaur.
2. Crystal Palace Museum
For history buffs, the Crystal Palace Museum is a must-visit. Located just outside the park, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of the Crystal Palace, which was a huge glass and iron building that once stood on the site. The museum features exhibits on the palace's design, construction, and eventual destruction by fire in 1936.
3. Sports and leisure activities
For those looking for an active day out, the park offers a range of sports and leisure activities. The park has a boating lake where visitors can hire rowing boats, as well as a skate park, a basketball court, and a children's playground. There are also tennis courts and a running track, which are open to the public.
4. Crystal Palace Park Farm
Visitors who love animals can visit the Crystal Palace Park Farm, which is home to a variety of farm animals, including cows, sheep, pigs, and chickens. Children can get up close to the animals and even help feed them. The farm also offers pony rides for children.
5. South Norwood Lake and Grounds
Just a short walk from the park is the South Norwood Lake and Grounds. The lake is a popular spot for fishing and bird watching, and the surrounding grounds are perfect for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
6. Selhurst Park Stadium
For football fans, a visit to Selhurst Park Stadium, the home of Crystal Palace FC, is a must. The stadium is just a 10-minute walk from the park, and visitors can take a guided tour of the stadium and learn about the history of the club.
7. Shopping and dining
After a day of exploring the park, visitors can head to the nearby Crystal Palace Triangle, which is home to a range of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. Visitors can sample a range of cuisines from around the world, including Italian, Thai, and Indian.
In conclusion, Crystal Palace Park is a fantastic destination for tourists looking for a fun and varied day out. With its historic landmarks, sports and leisure activities, and range of attractions nearby, visitors are sure to find something to suit their interests.
Opening Hours
| Saturday | 9 am–8:30 pm |
|---|---|
| Sunday | 9 am–8:30 pm |
| Monday | 7:30 am–8:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 7:30 am–8:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 7:30 am–8:30 pm |
| Thursday | 7:30 am–8:30 pm |
| Friday | 7:30 am–8:30 pm |