- Tips and Tricks
If you are new to London or looking to relocate to the Big
Smoke, it can be overwhelming to decide where to live. With over thirty
boroughs and nearly fifty neighbourhoods to choose from, there is undoubtedly
an abundance of options. At The Quarters by Bravo, we are here to help make the
decision-making process less stressful. We believe there is the perfect area
for everyone in London, and we are determined to help you find yours!
Today, we are delving into the London borough of Croydon, a well-known area of South London. Croydon is one of the largest London boroughs in terms of population size. It boasts former celebrity residents such as Grammy-award-winning singer-songwriter Adele, groundbreaking grime artist Stormzy, and supermodel Kate Moss.
Often overlooked in favour of its more flashy and famous neighbours, Croydon has a unique charm with numerous benefits. It could be your perfect place to call home. Here are Our top 10 reasons to live in Croydon;
1. Up and Coming Area
Croydon is at the centre of a wide variety of urban regeneration and investment projects. Between City of London grants totalling over £20 million, Croydon Council matching the amount with a similar £26 million investment, an additional £18.5 million from the national government and more, the South London borough can expect a significant influx of investment, development, and attention on the national scale. The investment will go towards expanding housing opportunities for residents (including provisions for increasing the stock of affordable housing for existing Croydonites), a significant revitalisation of the Town Centre (which is already well underway with the arrival of Boxpark and other major retailers and restaurants), the establishment of major shopping centres, and much more. Croydon is one of the most well-known up-and-coming areas in London and the UK at large.
2. Excellent transport links to the city
Located in Zone 5 of London, Croydon is considered to be outside of the hustle and bustle of central London. However, travelling from Croydon to the city takes less than twenty minutes. From East Croydon station, you can get to London Bridge and London Victoria in just fifteen to twenty minutes. For reference, that is less time than it would take you to get to central London than in some areas of Zone 2 and 3! In terms of transit, Croydon is also the only borough of London with an extensive tram network, making intra-borough travel a breeze.
3. Affordable
Croydon, situated in Zone 5, south of central London, offers more affordable housing options compared to many other areas of London. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking to live in the city without facing the high property prices typically found in more central or northern parts of London.
4. Diversity
Croydon is a microcosm of London, boasting some of the most diverse populations of any other London borough. As of 2021, approximately 48% of Croydon’s residents were considered Caucasian, 23% were considered Black, and just under 18% were considered Asian. The diverse population makes for a vibrant restaurant scene, with excellent options from across the British diaspora!
5. Proximity to green spaces
Croydon boasts an impressive selection of green spaces within the city centre and just outside, there are many parks, walking routes, nature reserves, and more. Check out Coombe Wood Gardens for a beautiful evening stroll; just tram stop the tram from The Quarters Croydon. For a more ambitious walk or cycle, Selsdon Wood Nature Reserve is an ancient woodland with a wide variety of trails for all abilities and activity levels. The River Wandle passes through Croydon, and the Wandle Trail is very popular amongst joggers and cyclists because of its stunning views of the river.
6. Growing business hub
In the last decade, Croydon’s business landscape has changed significantly, positioning itself as one of the premier up-and-coming business hubs of the Southeast. Its proximity to central London paired with its comparatively affordable commercial real estate stock makes Croydon an excellent choice for business ventures. Additionally, the investment the area has attracted through the Croydon Partnership, a joint venture between Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield and Hammerson, will bring new businesses and ample employment opportunities to the area.
7. Second largest Borough in London
The Borough of Croydon is the second largest London borough by area, meaning that there is always something to do. From green spaces such as Coombe Wood to nightlife at Boxpark to shopping, you will never be bored in Croydon.
8. Well connected to convenient areas outside of London like Surrey and Gatwick airport.
Aside from its proximity to central London, Croydon’s southern location makes it a convenient area for travellers to Gatwick airport, one of the largest airports in the U.K. Croydon is also optimally located for weekend trips to beautiful areas just outside of London, such as Surrey, considered England’s most densely wooded area, or Windsor in nearby Berkshire.
9. Quieter than central London
Croydon boasts many quiet and peaceful neighbourhoods for those who prefer a more tranquil life. Explore Sanderstead, a desirable residential area with a quaint village feel, or Purley, a suburban neighbourhood with lots of shops and restaurants.
10. The Quarters Croydon
The Quarters Croydon might be our favourite reason for selecting Croydon as your next home. The Quarters offers a unique way of living in the centre of the area’s hustle and bustle, steps away from East Croydon station and less than ten minutes from West Croydon station. Perfect for professionals new to the area or for those wanting to get a feel for the area before purchasing property in this up-and-coming part of London, The Quarters Croydon offers the perfect alternative to flat shares or expensive accommodation. Designed for those who value personal space and privacy, we offer your very own personal haven with in-suite cooking facilities, a private bathroom, a living space, and a cosy sleeping area just for you. With flexible agreement lengths from as little as three months and the option to renew, The Quarters Croydon is perfect for corporate and business travellers, international students, and anyone seeking an intermediate length living option in a vibrant area.
Croydon is a vibrant and diverse community in South London, at the centre of a wide variety of regeneration and revitalisation projects. These projects position it as one of the most up-and-coming areas in the United Kingdom. Its proximity to London and comparatively affordable housing stock make it the perfect area for business commuters and travellers.