Crystal Palace Park
Explore history and dinosaurs in a Victorian park.
At a Glance
Best Ages
All ages
Cost
Free
Time Needed
2-3 hours
Indoor/Outdoor
Outdoor
Weather Fit
Sunny days
Stroller Access
Yes, step-free
Washrooms
On-site facilities
Food
Cafe and kiosks
Parking
Pay-and-display
Booking
Not required
Parent Effort
Medium (supervision)
Crystal Palace Park is a charming blend of history, nature, and playful learning, ideal for families with children keen to explore and imagine.
About This Place
A large Victorian park in south London spanning 200 acres around the site of the original Crystal Palace exhibition hall, which burned down in 1936. The park is home to a remarkable collection of life-sized Victorian dinosaur sculptures — the first of their kind in the world and now a Grade I listed monument — alongside a boating lake, a maze, sports facilities, and open grasslands.
Official Website open_in_newDinosaur Statues
Life-sized Victorian dinosaur sculptures amaze visitors.
Playground
Dinosaur-themed play area perfect for active play.
Open Spaces
Vast green fields for picnics and family games.
Historic Exhibits
Museum with fascinating stories of the original Crystal Palace.
Good to Know Before You Go
- Monday – Sunday
- 07:30 – 20:00
- Admission
- FREE
- Food policy
- Snack kiosks available; picnics allowed.
- Booking
- Generally not necessary for entry.
- Parking
- Limited on-site pay-and-display parking.
- Washrooms
- Toilets available throughout park.
- Stroller access
- Paths are stroller friendly.
- Official website
- Visit site
Prices were last verified in 2026. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date rates.
Kid Fit by Age
Stroller access makes it easy.
Playground tailored for young children.
Plenty of open space for exploration.
Educational and entertaining dinosaur exhibits.
Active play areas engage older kids.
Best suited for those with interest in nature or photography.
- •Supervise children near water bodies.
- •Be cautious on uneven paths.
- •Lifeguard supervision for boating activities.
- •Adhere to park guidelines for a safe visit.
- •Wheelchair and stroller accessible paths.
- •Accessible washrooms available.
- •Designated parking spaces for disabled visitors.
- •Interpretive signs with visual aids.
schedule Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings offer a quieter environment. Try visiting during school terms to avoid crowds.
shopping_bag What to Bring
- check_boxSnacks or picnic
- check_boxComfortable walking shoes
- check_boxSun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- check_boxCamera for photos
- check_boxWater bottles
Location
Address
Thicket Rd, London SE19 2GA, United Kingdom
Phone
+442080507120
Make it a half-day
View All London
Insider Tips
Check the event schedule for special activities.
The maze is a fun challenge for older kids.
Bring a map or download one from the park website.
Consider public transport during peak season.
Planning a birthday?
Get exclusive party packages and dedicated hosts for your special day.
Last checked: 2026