Crystal Palace

Until 1854 this area was known simply as Sydenham, then the Crystal Palace that had been built in Hyde Park to house the Great Exhibition of 1851 was relocated to this spot in south east London.

In a tradition that continues to this day, a competition was held to find the most impressive design, and the winner was Joseph Paxton, head gardener to the Duke of Devonshire. The Design of the Crystal Palace was actually inspired by the conservatory at the Duke of Devonshire’s Derbyshire estate, Chatsworth House.

Worth a visit is the Crystal Palace park is a 200 acre parkland situated in the South of London. It contains the stunning terraces and Sphinx of the historic Crystal Palace, which burned down in 1936. You can enjoy the gorgeous views of South England and explore the grounds which are full of wildlife including squirrels, ducks and canada geese.