There are two great reasons to live in Croydon, these go hand in hand to make it a compelling choice; its relatively cheap property prices and its excellent transport links into Central London. On top of that, numerous initiatives are transforming Croydon and helping make its once dowdy image a thing of the past. Read on to discover developments that are the best places to live in Croydon. In addition, read reviews from residents who own or rent in Croydon.
The town is one of the first six Creative Enterprise Zones (CEZs) announced by the Mayor of London in 2018. Which has brought artists and creatives to the CR0 area to move into new studio spaces that have been opened here. Local leaders hope the borough’s practical support and investment in the arts will see it established as a music city. One of the most exciting commercial developments starting soon is the replacement of the Whitgift Centre – itself once the largest covered shopping venue in the UK – and the neighbouring Centrale mall with Westfield Croydon.
Where is Croydon?
The CR0 postcode area is less than 10 miles south of Central London, well inside the M25. Croydon sits half way along the major rail and road corridor between London and the south coast.
Development in Croydon
Croydon’s commercial and leisure developments have been matched in recent years by the creation of a range of residential schemes to suit all pockets.
Among the most impressive of these is Berkeley Homes‘ typically high-end Saffron Square tower. Its 43-storeys dominate the Croydon skyline and provide incredible views for miles around. From both the windows and the landscaped roof gardens.
The apartments feature high-end, contemporary designs looks such as glass staircases, and full-height windows flooding rooms with light. Residents are also well-served by the 24-hour concierge service. The building is just 12 minutes’ walk from East Croydon railway station. This development is rated as one of the best places to live in Croydon
“Great facilities – concierge, gym and roof terrace… Out of hours contact provided for building issues – heating, leaks etc.” – verified resident at Saffron Square who is renting in croydon
For those on a tighter budget, Green Dragon House is a more affordable option for first-timers. By providing communal spaces including a shared lounge with a snooker table and cinema corner, and also a roof terrace, these ‘micro flats’ are designed to appeal to young first-timers who also appreciate opportunities to socialise with their neighbours. Only launched in 2017, Inspired Homes has created a building set up for today’s lifestyle, with hyperoptic broadband and lobby boxes to accept online shopping deliveries.
“This is a great building to live in. We are a couple living in a one-bedroom flat and while it is small there is two great common areas. A common room with sofas and tables and a pool table and a rooftop terrace. The building is very secure.” – verified resident at Green Dragon House
Even more developments…
The flats in Fairview New Homes’ City House also benefit from ultrafast ‘Fibre-to-the-Building’ broadband but the technological innovations in this repurposed office-to-commercial space don’t end there. Wind turbines on the roof of the block provide electricity to the communal areas, helping to keep bills down and reduce residents’ carbon footprint. City House is another central development, about 10 minutes’ walk from East Croydon station.
“New building and the facilities are of good quality. The security is good because they always do the walk around and you can call them 24h if you have any issues. It is safe overall. Maintenance is good and there are no delays in fixing things.” – Tolu, verified resident at City House who rents in Croydon
“Security of the building is great with the cctv. I feel very safe living here. This was my first complaint when I moved in; there was no hot water. Only the shower, other faucets are good. The community is good and people are good.” – Mehvish S, verified resident at City House
Another Fairview New Homes development that comes highly recommended is Queens Gate, a listed conversion with apartments that range from one to four bedrooms.
“This is a nice place for kids. There is a playground and lots of grassy areas.” – Grassy, verified resident at Queens Gate
“Very happy with the price and the community is like a family and we get along. The community hall does activities for the mums and children. The facilities are great and it’s a great value for money. Maintenance is great.” – Hedwig, verified resident at Queens Gate
Transport
Croydon has three railway stations – East Croydon, South Croydon and West Croydon. The first two of these are on the same line. East Croydon is a major hub with frequent, fast trains to London Bridge (just 13 minutes away) and St Pancras (30 minutes) as well as stopping services to Victoria (16 minutes). Those heading south can get to Brighton in 35 minutes for work or for an easy day. Or even afternoon – out at the beach. And if you’re heading further afield, services to Gatwick Airport leave every eight minutes and take only 16 minutes to get there. There’s also the fast London Overground connection to Canada Water from West Croydon.
Getting around Croydon is easy, too, thanks to the three-line Tramlink network which even stops at Ikea. Further council plans to make the town greener include an electric bicycles hire scheme. Croydon road traffic can be congested and parking is in short supply; but drivers don’t have far to go to reach major roads such as the A23.
