Croydon & Purley

Croydon & Purley are areas in the London Borough of Croydon, in the south of London, England. The areas have a population of about 385,000 and are part of the Croydon South parliamentary constituency. The areas have a history dating back to the Anglo-Saxon period, when Croydon was a market town and Purley was an estate granted by the abbot of Winchester. The areas have several historic landmarks, such as Croydon Minster, Purley War Memorial Hospital and Shirley Windmill. The areas also have a vibrant scene with venues such as Fairfield Halls, The BRIT School and The Ludoquist. The areas are well connected by road and rail, with frequent services to London Victoria, London Bridge, Gatwick Airport and Brighton.

Education

Croydon & Purley are areas in the London Borough of Croydon, in the south of London, England. The areas have several schools, both state and independent. The areas are best known for Whitgift School, one of the oldest and most prestigious boys' schools in the country, founded in 1596 by John Whitgift, the Archbishop of Canterbury. Whitgift School offers a range of academic, co-curricular and pastoral programmes and has a reputation for excellence in sports, music and drama.

Other notable independent schools in Croydon & Purley include Old Palace of John Whitgift School, which is a girls' school with a history of academic achievement and co-curricular activities. Cumnor House School, which is a co-educational preparatory school with a focus on academic excellence and pastoral care. Royal Russell School, which is a co-educational school for pupils aged 3 to 18 with a stimulating curriculum and a wide range of activities.

The state schools in Croydon & Purley are also highly regarded, such as Harris Academy Purley, which is a co-educational academy with a specialism in enterprise and innovation. Riddlesdown Collegiate, which is a co-educational academy with a specialism in performing arts and technology. Coloma Convent Girls' School, which is a girls' academy with a Catholic ethos and a specialism in languages and humanities.

Local Attractions

Croydon & Purley have plenty to offer for culture, leisure and entertainment. The areas have several historic landmarks, such as Croydon Minster, which is a medieval church with a tower that dates back to the 15th century. Purley War Memorial Hospital, which was built in 1923 to commemorate the fallen of the First World War. Shirley Windmill, which is a restored 19th-century windmill that offers guided tours and events.

For nature lovers, Croydon & Purley have some of the best green spaces in London, such as Lloyd Park, which features gardens, play areas and sports facilities. South Norwood Country Park, which features wetlands, woodland trails and wildlife. Riddlesdown Common, which features chalk grassland, ancient woodland and panoramic views.

For arts and culture enthusiasts, Croydon & Purley have a vibrant scene with venues such as Fairfield Halls, which hosts theatre, cinema, music, comedy and community events. The BRIT School, which showcases theatre, music, dance and art by students from the famous performing arts school. There are also regular festivals and markets in the areas that celebrate the local heritage, produce and talent.

Entertainment

Croydon & Purley have a range of options for dining out, from cosy pubs and cafes to fine restaurants and bistros. Some of the popular places to eat include Albert's Table, which serves modern British cuisine in an award-winning setting. The Jolly Farmers, which serves traditional pub food in a friendly atmosphere. The Pear Tree, which serves contemporary European cuisine in an elegant setting.

For nightlife, Croydon & Purley have several pubs and bars that cater to different tastes and moods. Some of the favourites are The Edge, which is a live music venue with bands, DJs and comedy nights. The Foxley Hatch, which is a cosy pub with open fires, board games and quiz nights. The Ludoquist, which is a board game cafe with over 1400 games to choose from.

Transport

Croydon & Purley are well connected to London and other destinations by road and rail. The areas have several railway stations that offer frequent services to London Victoria, London Bridge, London Blackfriars, Clapham Junction, Gatwick Airport, and Brighton. Journey times to central London are around 30 minutes.