Crystal Palace is a charming neighbourhood located in South East London. Named as London’s best place to live in 2022, its name comes from the glass palace that once stood there. Today, it's known for its beautiful green spaces, vibrant arts scene, and village-like atmosphere. In this post, we'll explore what it's like to live in Crystal Palace, including the cost of living, local amenities, housing options, schools, and transportation.
Cost of Living in Crystal Palace
One of the benefits of living in Crystal Palace is its relatively affordable compared to other parts of London. Housing prices can vary depending on the type of home you're looking for, but overall, they're lower than in many other London neighbourhoods. Being on the cusp of zone 3 and 4, transportation costs are also reasonable, with many local residents taking advantage of London’s world class public transport system. The cost of groceries and other necessities is also relatively affordable, making Crystal Palace an attractive option for those looking for a more budget-friendly way of life. In 2023, your average 1 bedroom apartment will set you back around £1,600pcm.
Where to eat, drink and play
The neighbourhood also has a great selection of shops, restaurants, and cafes, with something to suit all tastes and budgets. Here are some of our favourites.
Pizzaholics
Every neighbourhood needs a good pizza place, and Pizzaholics is the top dog in Crystal Palace. Serving up toasty sourdough pizzas, fresh from a wood oven you’re sure to become a loyal regular from your first bite.
Morgan and Watson
In fitting with Crystal Palace’s bohemian local scene, Morgan and Watson is a plant-based restaurant who souce all their produce locally, giving you seasonal dishes that are sure to inspire you.
Roti Brothers
For a deliciously satiating meal, look no further than Roti Bros hamburger joint. Once a food truck, their popularity led them to open a new restaurant in Crystal Palace. Be sure to give them a visit for an instagram-worth stacked bun.
Westow House
Westow House is your new local, complete with all the atmosphere and cosy vibes that you would expect from a well-looked after British pub. Also a B&B, it is the perfect place to put up your family during their visits to your neighbourhood.
Cocktail Embassy
If you’re in the mood for something more than a pint, on Westow Hill you’ll find Cocktail Embassy. Perfect for dates and having a few classy drinks, Cocktail Embassy has a downstairs nightclub if you want to keep the night going.
Crystal Palace Park
Perhaps the most famous attraction in Crystal Palace is its large park of the same name. Crystal Palace Park dates back to Victorian times, where it was home to the Great Exhibition of 1851 – a huge 5-month exhibition of worldly curiosities attended by the likes of Charles Darwin. Today, Crystal Palace Park plays host to a quirky dinosaur sculpture trail, a boating lake, and sports facilities.
Housing in Crystal Palace
There are many different housing options available in Crystal Palace, from modern apartments to large family homes. Many of the properties in the area are Victorian or Edwardian in style, adding to the neighbourhood's historic charm. With such a diverse options available it's easy to find a home that suits your needs.
Find places to rent in Crystal Palace.
Local Schools
Families with children will be pleased to know that there are many excellent schools in Crystal Palace. The neighbourhood is home to a number of primary and secondary schools, including:
- Harris Academy Crystal Palace (ages 11-18)
- Kingsdale (ages 11-18)
- Rockmount Primary School (ages 3-11)
Transportation
Getting around Crystal Palace is easy, thanks to its excellent transportation links. The neighbourhood is served by multiple bus routes and a number of local train stations, including Crystal Palace for the London Overground and Gipsy Hill where you can catch direct trains to London Victoria. It's also close to the M25 and A23, making it easy to get in and out of London by car.
Living in Crystal Palace
Overall, Crystal Palace is a wonderful neighbourhood with plenty to offer its residents. Its mix of affordability, green spaces, amenities, and excellent transportation links make it a fantastic place to live, no matter your age or background. If you're looking for a great place to call home, Crystal Palace could be just the neighbourhood you've been searching for.
