A Guide to Purley
Within easy reach of central London and the natural beauty of the North Downs just a stone’s throw away, Purley is hard to beat for those looking to strike the balance between urban convenience and rural calm. A charming suburb located in the borough of Croydon, South London, Purley is ideal for singles and couples [RC1] with an array of parks and green spaces.
Buying a home in Purley ensures access to excellent transport links and all the benefits of London, with its cultural attractions, shops and a diverse array of local food and drink options, without forgetting a healthy dose of peace and quiet. Here’s our quick guide to the area to help you figure out if Purley is right for you.
Food and Drink Recommendations:
With a range of restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to various tastes, Purley residents can enjoy good café and pub grub, as well as international cuisine like Indian and Turkish dishes. For a taste of authentic Indian flavours, Raj of Purley will welcome you to dine in, while Himalaya will ensure you enjoy some mouth-watering and award-winning Indian dishes from the comfort of your home. Another popular spot is the buzzing, traditional, tiled Spanish bar and restaurant, Las Fuentes, serving authentic tapas and sharing platters in a fun and laid-back atmosphere. Also, a short journey from Purley, Boxpark Croydon is a vibrant and youthful hub for food, drinks, and entertainment. Experience an eclectic mix of street food vendors, pop-up shops, live music, and events.
Local Parks:
Nature enthusiasts, young families and those seeking some peace and quiet will appreciate the abundance of green spaces in and around Purley. One of the area's highlights is Purley Way Playing Fields, a large recreational area with football pitches, cricket pitches, skate park and a children's playground. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, getting active or enjoying a family picnic.
Just a short distance away is Riddles down Common, a designated nature reserve to the north of the North Downs boasting breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside. Here, visitors can embark on scenic walks, spot wildlife, or simply relax amid the tranquil atmosphere.
Attractions:
Purley is conveniently situated near a range of attractions that offer something for everyone. If you're a fan of history and architecture, a visit to the nearby Croydon Minster is a must. This stunning medieval church, with its intricate stained-glass windows and rich history, provides a fascinating glimpse into the area's past.
For a day of shopping and entertainment, you can hop into East Croydon in just 5 minutes on the train for Centrale & Whitgift Shopping Centre and all its other big high street names and restaurants, as well as a cinema.
Golf enthusiasts will relish a visit to the Farleigh Golf Club, situated on the outskirts of Purley. This championship golf course offers stunning views, top-notch facilities, and an exceptional golfing experience.
Travel Links:
Purley benefits from excellent transport links, making it a convenient base for exploring London and beyond. The Purley railway station provides frequent services to central London, with direct trains to London Victoria and London Bridge getting you from door to door in about 20-30 minutes. Additionally, East Croydon Station, a major transport hub, is just a short distance away, offering further connections to various destinations across the country, and you can also get to Gatwick Airport in 33 minutes or down to Brighton beach in just over an hour.
Purley is also well-served by buses, providing easy access to neighbouring areas and local attractions. The area's proximity to major road networks, including the M23 and M25 motorways, makes it convenient for those traveling by car.
Purley offers a wonderful blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. With its beautiful local parks, great nearby schools, a range of eating and drinking spots, and excellent travel links, it has something to offer everyone. If you are considering buying a property in Purley, you will be greeted with a welcoming and vibrant community that should not be missed.
Discover our Fount Spring Place collection of 1 & 2-bedroom Shared Ownership apartments in Purley, just a 6-minute walk from Purley Station. These beautiful homes, adjacent to Purley Cross, are positioned in a convenient, accessible, and quieter part of the leafy London Borough of Croydon, and are ready to be enjoyed by first-time buyers.