What to do in Croydon (Fairfield Halls, Croydon)

Make a day of it

Why not make a day of it in Croydon? There’s lots on offer for families including shopping, parks, playgrounds and activities to entertain your family before or after the show.

Shopping

There are two shopping centres and a bustling high street in Croydon. The Whitgift Shopping Centre and Centrale Shopping Centre are a 10 minute walk away. Pop into Priscilla’s Play Café in the Whitgift upstairs next to M&S, for a coffee, cake and let the kids have a run around in the soft play area (small charge applies).

Parks and playgrounds

Grab some lunch from the supermarket on the walk from East Croydon station, and go onto one of these lovely green spaces for a picnic, a play and a run around after the show.

Queen’s Gardens – opposite Fairfield Halls – urban park perfect for a picnic

Park Hill Park – 5 minute walk (CR0 5PB) – peaceful park with playground and picnic areas

Wandle Park – 5 minute tram from George Street tram stop – large park with play area, playground, skate park and café.

Activities

Fancy trying something different to entertain the kids before or after the show? We’ve compiled the best of the local area and further afield so that you make your visit to In the Night Garden Live into a full day trip.

Just a 5 minute walk from Fairfield Halls is Croydon Central Library. They have a lovely children’s library, plus a free 30 minute Rhyme Time session for babies and young toddlers. It runs on the following days and times:

Thursdays: 10:30 – 11:00 and 11:30 – 12:00

Saturdays: 11:00 – 11:30

From Fairfield Halls, jump on a bus (20-25 mins) or drive (10 mins) to the Croydon Collonades where you’ll find a fantastic soft play centre Kidspace Croydon. There’s also a trampoline park called Oxygen Freejumping which has dedicated sessions for under 5s at 11:00 on weekdays and 10:00 on weekends. It’s worth booking in advance for both of these activities to avoid disappointment!

For something different visit Coombe Wood and Gardens (10 minute drive, or 30 minute tram) where you can explore the pretty woodlands, garden and pond area. The Coach House Café on site serves lovely food and cake, with kids portions available too.