Anyone who lives in the southeast of London surely knows of Croydon, the city that never seems to get any love. And why is that? It has a “reputation,” but don’t let that alter your wanderlust. There are actually quite a few attributes that you might find interesting. Croydon, located in South London, is a diverse and vibrant area with a lot to offer, actually. The main thrill (for many history buffs) is it’s place in history. Croydon Airport established the world’s first–ever air traffic control services 100 years ago. it was the UK’s only international airport during the interwar period. It opened in 1920, located in Croydon, then part of Surrey.
The rather beautiful main building was built in a Neoclassical style, as it was developed as Britain’s main airport, handling more cargo, mail, and passengers than any other UK airport at the time. Innovations at the site included the first airport terminal. During World War II the airport was named RAF Croydon as its role changed to that of a fighter airfield during the Battle of Britain; and in 1943 RAF Transport Command was founded at the site, which used the airport to transport thousands of troops into and out of Europe.
Sadly, In 1978, the terminal building and Gate Lodge were granted protection as Grade II listed buildings. In May 2017, Historic England raised the status of the terminal building to Grade II. Owing to disrepair, the Gate Lodge is now classified as Heritage at Risk by Historic England. Let’s hope this will be fixed.
And if the kids are bored stiff, there is a massive IKEA nearby that will keep them hypnotized.
You can always count on Tripadvisor for things to do. Click here to explore Croydon and beyond.
Surely, you’ll want to stay at the London Croydon Aerodrome Hotel, BW Signature Collection. Click here.
You’ll probably want a car, although rail services are nearby. Click here to book your vehicle.
Main image courtesy of Christopher Hilton.