In its heyday Crystal Palace was a playground for the Victorian elite. Today, with the arrival of the East London Line, our area is looking forward to renewing its fortunes. Gastro pubs are springing up, an Italian deli has moved in, and the adult shop has been replaced by a Dutch cycle shop. Links into London are excellent with London Bridge just 20 minutes on the train, London Victoria just under 30 minutes and new speedy connections to Shoreditch and the City thanks to the East London Line. These good transport links, plus plenty of green space, and a tempting selection of period and modern homes, mean that now is a great time to make your home in this up-and-coming area.
A little bit of history
Crystal Palace takes its name from the enormous glass and steel structure that housed the Great Exhibition of 1851. Originally constructed in Hyde Park, it was moved to Sydenham Hill in 1854, but was sadly destroyed by fire in 1936. As one of the highest points in London, with spectacular views over the capital, Crystal Palace was popular with Victorians. Today Crystal Palace retains much of its Victorian architecture, in the form of terraces and the grand villas that surround Crystal Palace Park. You'll also find mid-war terraces, modern flats and architecturally innovative developments such as Solidspace's stunning Essex Mews.
Need to know
The Crystal Palace area encroaches on five boroughs and three postal districts; Anerly, Dulwich Wood, Gipsy Hill, Penge, South Norwood, Sydenham and Upper Norwood. It is one of the highest points in London, boasting great views and a famous television mast that can been seen across the capital.
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes lived here. As did Marie Stopes, Godmother of the sex education and birth control movement.
Shopping
Crystal Palace Triangle, formed by Westow Street, Westow Hill and Church Road, boasts a selection of independent shops, including Haynes Lane Market a haven for vintage-lovers. Do South is a modern furniture shop. Belle Coco is a favourite fashion boutique. And South Of The River, Smash Bang Wallop and Glitter and Twisted are all tempting, for gifts or just browsing. For the weekly food shop, you'll find a Sainsbury's, Tesco and an Iceland in Crystal Palace as well as Planta for organic produce. We also recommend Murray Bros Butchers on Penge High Street, Billing`s Butchers on Sydenham Road and Penge Quality Fish on Central Parade.