Nine cute things to do in Crystal Palace, South London, this weekend
Looking for things to do in Crystal Palace this weekend? Or just looking for things to do in South London? SE20 has a cute village vibe but is still located in zone 3, so there’s a lush mix of things to eat, drink and see! Plus it’s accessible by the train and the overground, so is actually pretty easy to get to. I’ve lived here for four years and am totally obsessed with it; I honestly think Crystal Palace is seriously underrated and is one of the best spots in not only South London, but the whole city!
Did you know Crystal Palace was actually voted the best place to live in London 2021 by The Times? 🕺
As well as being home to A South London Makers Markets, but there’s sooo many other wonderful (and often free!) things to do in Crystal Palace. From great local pubs and bars, to street food markets, vintage flea shopping pedalos: here are my top recommendations of things to do in Crystal Palace. Loads are free, kid-friendly and pup-friendly too which is a bonus. Let me know if I missed anything out!
MOOCH SALAD DAYS MARKET
Crystal Palace is the home to our markets! So if you’re going to be spending the weekend here, make sure you check to see if we’ve got an event on! They’re free and feature loads of incredible small brands, local food stalls and more. Plus, they’re totally dog friendly!
PICK UP DELISH STREET FOOD
All of London’s best street food stalls flock to CP park as part of Crystal Palace Park Market on a Sunday. So if the weather’s nice, take a mooch down there. Hit up the parma ham and mozzarella stand, Crosstown Donuts, Ted’s Veg and I beg, please don’t miss Kolkati’s spicy fried paneer wrap!
DRINK IN THE BEST VIEW
There’s one good thing about Crystal Palace’s notorious hills - once you’re at the top you get the most incredible view of London’s iconic skyline, including the Shard and more. Take a moment to appreciate it with a drink at Cooper’s pub who’s double doors open to reveal an amazing vantage spot.
FIND SOME FAB VINTAGE FURNITURE
Crystal Palace is a hotspot for vintage and secondhand furniture! My favourite spot is the four floor emporium on Jasper Road, which always seems to have exactly what I’m looking for. The second floor is my fave, and the basement has more premium Mid Century pieces.
TAKE A TRIP ON THE PEDALOS
Did you know Crystal Palace Park has its very own pedalos!? They operate during the summer months, and are only a fiver. A really lovely thing to do on a hot day, especially with kids! You can pay cash and card now as well which makes it even easier.
DO A FREE STREET ART TOUR
As you’re mooching around, stop to appreciate vibrant street art murals by iconic graffiti artist Mr Cenz (who is a CP resident himself!) They’re so full of life and colour, and seriously beautiful! His full-height murals are dotted all around. This one is opposite the big Sainsburys and is my personal fave. She’s so beautiful.
GET A DRINK AT THE DOUGLAS FIR
Without a doubt one of the best spots to hang out at the weekend! The Douglas Fir is Gipsy Hill Brewery’s friendly neighbour hood bar. Lovely staff, great beer. Plus it’s right by the park so the perfect pit stop after a walk or a go on the pedalos. What more could you want?
VISIT THE DINOSAURS
Crystal Palace’s most known and loved attraction! These iconic dinosaurs have been in the park here for more than 100 years and are currently undergoing some major renovations to keep them looking their best. A super cute (and free!) thing to do with kids.
MEET PALS AT THE ALMA PUB
The Alma is without doubt the best pub on the triangle. Food critic Grace Dent recently visited and raved about their crispy cauliflower which lives in my head rent free. Their staff are the best, and there’s a fresh flower stand right outside! They have a covered outdoor area and are dog friendly.