Top 10 Family-Friendly Activities to Do in Croydon This Holiday
Educational and Fun Activities
Written by Grace clarke
12 February 2025
đź•“ 15 min
Croydon is a fantastic place for families looking for fun and engaging activities during the holiday season. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or creative indoor activities, there's something for everyone. Here are ten family-friendly activities to make your holiday in Croydon special.
1. Visit Coombe Woods and Gardens
If your family enjoys nature walks and peaceful scenery, Coombe Woods and Gardens is a must-visit. The beautiful landscaped gardens, woodland trails, and picturesque ponds make it the perfect spot for a relaxing day out. Kids will love exploring the trails and spotting local wildlife, while parents can unwind amidst the tranquil surroundings.
Beyond the stunning scenery, Coombe Woods offers an educational experience for children who enjoy learning about plants, trees, and ecosystems. The well-maintained trails make it easy for strollers and young walkers to explore, and there are plenty of benches where you can rest and enjoy a picnic. If you're visiting in the autumn or spring, you'll be treated to a breathtaking display of colors as the foliage transforms with the seasons. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the beauty of this hidden gem!
2. Explore the Museum of Croydon
The Museum of Croydon offers a fascinating insight into the town’s history and culture. With interactive exhibits and hands-on displays, children can engage with Croydon’s past in a fun and educational way. It’s a great way to learn about the community while enjoying a family outing.
The museum is designed to be engaging for children and adults alike, with immersive displays that bring Croydon's history to life. Kids can explore artifacts from different periods, try on historical costumes, and interact with digital exhibits that make learning fun. Special holiday workshops and storytelling sessions are often hosted, giving families an extra reason to visit. The museum is conveniently located in the Croydon Clocktower, which also houses a library and arts center, making it a great place for a full day of learning and exploration.
3. Have Fun at Oxygen Freejumping
For families looking for high-energy fun, Oxygen Freejumping Trampoline Park is a great choice. With wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and obstacle courses, kids can jump, flip, and burn off some energy in a safe environment.
This indoor trampoline park is perfect for children of all ages, offering separate areas for younger jumpers to play safely. In addition to freestyle jumping, Oxygen Freejumping hosts fun events like glow-in-the-dark bounce sessions, dodgeball tournaments, and fitness challenges. Parents can either join in on the action or relax in the café while their children enjoy supervised play. It’s an excellent activity for rainy days or when kids need an energy boost during the holiday break.
4. Go Ice Skating at Centrale Shopping Centre
During the holiday season, Centrale Shopping Centre often sets up a family-friendly ice skating rink. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced skater, this is a fantastic way to enjoy festive fun while spending quality time together.
The temporary rink is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and holiday music, making it a magical experience for the whole family. Skate rentals are available, and there are instructors on-site to help beginners get comfortable on the ice. After skating, you can warm up with a cup of hot chocolate from nearby cafes or explore the holiday-themed stalls that sell festive treats and gifts. Ice skating is a great way to build family traditions and create cherished holiday memories.
5. Watch a Family Show at Fairfield Halls
Fairfield Halls is Croydon's premier venue for live entertainment, and they regularly feature family-friendly performances, from pantomimes to concerts. Check the schedule to see what exciting shows are running during the holidays.
The venue hosts an array of performances, including children’s theatre, comedy shows, and live music events. If you’re visiting during the festive season, you can often catch a traditional Christmas pantomime filled with humor, music, and audience participation. Fairfield Halls also offers sensory-friendly performances for children with additional needs, ensuring an inclusive experience for all families. Booking tickets in advance is recommended, as popular shows sell out quickly.
6. Play at Kidspace Adventure Park
Kidspace Adventure Park is one of the best indoor play centers in Croydon, offering soft play areas, climbing walls, and interactive games. It’s the perfect place for young children to run around and have a blast while parents can relax with a coffee.
The play center is designed to cater to different age groups, ensuring that both toddlers and older kids have activities suited to their interests. There are thrilling slides, tunnels, ball pits, and obstacle courses that promote physical activity and social interaction. Special themed events and workshops are also organized during the holidays, such as arts and crafts sessions, storytime, and even science experiments. Kidspace provides a safe and fun environment where children can let their imaginations run wild while developing motor skills and confidence.
7. Enjoy the Outdoors at Wandle Park
Wandle Park is a great spot for a family picnic or a leisurely walk. The park features a playground, a lake, and plenty of open space for kids to play. During the holidays, you might even find seasonal activities or special events happening in the park.
The park also has cycling paths, sports courts, and an amphitheater where live performances and community events often take place. Families can enjoy feeding the ducks at the pond or simply relaxing on the grass with a homemade picnic. If you visit during the winter months, you may even find festive decorations and pop-up activities for children. It’s an ideal location for outdoor fun that doesn’t require spending money.
8. Visit Croydon’s Christmas Markets
If you’re visiting during the winter holidays, don’t miss Croydon’s Christmas markets. These festive markets offer a range of unique gifts, delicious treats, and fun activities for kids, making it a great outing for the whole family.
The markets feature handcrafted gifts, artisan food stalls, and festive entertainment like carol singing and live performances. Kids can enjoy meeting Santa at a grotto, participating in cookie-decorating workshops, and sipping on warm drinks while soaking in the holiday atmosphere. Visiting a Christmas market is a great way to support local businesses while making the most of the season’s festivities. The joyful ambiance and beautifully decorated stalls add to the charm, making it a wonderful experience for both children and adults.
9. Take a Creative Workshop at Matthews Yard
Matthews Yard hosts various creative workshops, including art, crafts, and music sessions for families. It’s a great way to get creative together while learning new skills in a fun and welcoming environment.
Workshops range from pottery and painting to storytelling and digital media creation, offering something for children with different interests. These sessions encourage kids to express themselves artistically while also developing fine motor skills and critical thinking. The community space at Matthews Yard fosters a warm and friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for families looking to try something new together. Many workshops also incorporate educational elements, allowing children to develop new skills while having fun.
10. Experience Wildlife at Millers Pond
Millers Pond is a hidden gem in Croydon where families can enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature. Children will love feeding the ducks and spotting different birds and wildlife. Bring along some snacks and enjoy a quiet afternoon in the fresh air.
The pond is home to a variety of wildlife, including swans, fish, and squirrels, making it an excellent place for children to learn about nature firsthand. There are benches and picnic areas for families to relax and enjoy a scenic break from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whether you’re an avid bird-watcher or just looking for a serene place to unwind, Millers Pond offers a lovely escape.
Final Thoughts
Croydon is a vibrant hub of exciting and diverse activities that cater to all ages, making it an ideal holiday destination for families. Whether you enjoy exploring nature, engaging in cultural experiences, or seeking high-energy adventures, there's something to delight every member of the family. By taking advantage of Croydon’s wide array of family-friendly events and attractions, you can create lasting memories and strengthen family bonds. So, gather your loved ones, step out, and make the most of the holiday season by exploring all that Croydon has to offer!
Looking for more family-friendly activities? Stay updated with local events and fun happenings in Croydon!
