When the sun in shining, I like taking the family to Crystal Palace Park – a vast open space that is not nearly as well known as the other Royal parks in London but is just as worthy of a visit. My son loves to look at the huge sculptures of dinosaurs and other prehistoric creatures which were unveiled in 1854 when the Great Exhibition moved here from Hyde Park. What’s interesting about the sculptures is that they are actually largely inaccurate due to the lack of knowledge of at the time. The 15 beasts are dotted around an island on the boating lake at the south end of the park.
The enormous glass structure which gave ‘Crystal Palace’ its name was destroyed by fire in 1936, but you can still see its foundations today. There's also a maze and skate park to enjoy.
The park is easily accessible from Crystal Palace station and it’s worth combining with a visit to nearby Crystal Palace ‘village’, which is known for its quirky antique shops, pubs and restaurants.
Find your way with 222 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Blink and you’ll miss it. This private little Loughborough Junction spot is well hidden, down a single-file alley off the otherwise unremarkable Hinton Rd.
By
The Hermit’s Cave is the kind of place the pub lovers ‘pop down for a quick one’ before dinner, a gentle spot for a gentle relationship with alcohol...
By
Bookmongers truly is one of the gems of Brixton. Just be warned, if you head down with a busy schedule, be prepared to miss your next appointment.
By
Inside are people that know each other, who have helped keep their boozer free from the relentless march of gentrification while so many others failed.
By
In essence, when it comes to stylish neighbourhood pizza joints, Theo’s has all the bases covered starting with banging pizza, fair prices and good drinks.
By
The French House has a long-standing reputation as a central pillar in London's historic district of dastardliness and debauchery...
By
"Swingers London" London is a crazy indoors golf course with a bar and lots of street food-style eateries. Tip: get a few cocktails at the bar beforehand.
By
"Peckham Levels" is in one of London's most formerly notorious neighborhoods. Now it's one of the coolest neighborhoods -- come and spend a whole day here!
By
I have tried to resist repeatedly getting their pain au chocolat and try something else from their wide selection of savoury treats as well...
By
222 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 222 Insider Tips