About Crystal Palace Park

Crystal Palace is a residential region in South London, England named from the former local landmark, The Crystal Palace, which occupied the area from 1854 to 1936. The area is situated approximately 8 miles south east of Charing Cross, and presents impressive views over the capital. It includes one of the highest points in London, 367 feet (112 m). The park is located along the uppermost segments of the London Clay ridge known at its ends as Sydenham Hill and Beulah Hill or the Claygate Ridge. This ridge presents views northward to central London, east to the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge and Greenwich, and southward to Croydon and the North Downs. The park, in recent times has become home to many ring-necked parakeets, particularly in the trees around the café and play area. Sightings of the birds have become increasingly natural in South London but unusual in a location as busy as Crystal Palace Park. The park is one of the preliminary points for the Green Chain Walk, linking to places such as Chislehurst, Erith, the Thames Barrier and Thamesmead. Two television transmitter masts make the district a landmark location, visible from many parts of the London area.

The Park is open daily from Monday to Sunday from 7.30am to half an hour after dusk. Three entrances which are closed at night are: Boundaries gate, Penge entrance, Sydenham gate.

The Penge entrance is the place for the Information Centre and Park rangers office. Penge entrance leads visitors down the grand centre walk. On the right is the Information Centre, toilets and children's playground. On the left visitors can find the Cafe and tidal lake.

Location