For me a trip to Crystal Palace has only ever entailed a trip to the park, but over the past few years as I’ve driven down the high street I have slowly seen some more interesting shops and eateries popping up.
With my sister after some different household goodies for her new home we decided to give the town centre a visit today and were pleasantly suprised.
There were some fantastic independent coffee shops and resturants, a few good clothes shops and ample home ware shops offering something a little different to the norm. I would recommend a look around Crystal Palace if you are looking for some one off pieces or a good restoration project to sink your teeth into.
Once the little ones had, had enough of the shops we headed to the park. I have a real love for this park for many reasons. It is steeped in history and I love climbing the steps, with the children of what would have been the magnificent Crystal Palace.
From there we made our way across the vast parkland and down into the ornate gardens of the ‘Victorian theme park’ that homes the magnificent dinosaur sculptures. We never tire of walking around, clambering on the rocks and feeding the ducks whist looking at the fantasic dinosaurs; although number four was disappointed with their lack movement today!
During the summer months the boating lake is open and you can hire a pedalo or rowing boat which is alway a great addition to our trip.
After our dinosaur hunt we made our way to the farm to meet the animals. It is only small but there is always a chance to meet one of the animals up close, and the volunteers there are always on hand to answer any questions. There is no charge to enter but a donation is asked for.
A short walk from the farm leads you to the dinosaur themed playground where the little ones burnt off some energy in the sandpit, slide and swings.
Our final port of call was the maze. For some reason this has always eluded us in the past and we wished it had today! Due to our lack of direction it was a very anxious and muddy twenty minutes.
This park has good public transport links and is directly next to the train station. There is a free car park that is located by the ruins of the old palace. As it is such a vast area a buggy will be needed for tired little legs.
Come rain of shine this is a beautiful piece of history that is defiantly worth a visit, especially for dinosaur lovers.
Crystal Palace looks lovely and the park looks amazing! My son would love it! 🙂 x
It’s defiantly worth a trip. So much to do xx