Neighbouring Sutton, Croydon was recently listed in the top 10 of the UK’s worst towns. In the authors opinion this is very unfair.
Croydon appears to have a relatively small amount of people that continually manage to tar its reputation. But it has a surprisingly expansive shopping district with, for example, one of the largest Marks and Spencers you’ve seen (if that’s your thing) and a double-height Superdry clothing store.
The main high street is tree-lined, and has some of the most impressive victorian-era architecture in South London.
In the photo below: Heritage windows and advertising survive at The Old Fox and Hounds pub opposite West Croydon Railway Station.
Below is an example of a lovely bay window with surviving original glass.
This is just a taster. There’s many more examples of great architecture.
Although much has been lost over the years, it’s enjoyable to appreciate what’s still there – and imagine how things once were, and how they could be once again. So next time you’re there, remember to look up.
Croydon has lots of lovely buildings if you just look above the shop fronts … most of Croydon is lovely if you exclude West Croydon and London Road.. know to decent locals as Stab Alley.