4.5 ·
Explore Crystal Palace Park, a south London green space with a quirky Victorian secret. Wander around the lake to spot the world's first dinosaur sculptures, then relax on the lawns or visit the dinosaur-themed playground.
Reasons to go
Full description
Crystal Palace Park was laid out to showcase the Great Exhibition's glass-and-iron Crystal Palace after it moved here from Hyde Park in 1854, and though the building itself burned down in 1936, the park retains its most famous feature: a set of Victorian dinosaur sculptures, the first ever made, still scattered around a lake. Playgrounds, a boating lake, and open lawns make it a popular family spot today, and a newer dinosaur-themed play area builds on the original theme.
It's a park that rewards curiosity about its unusual history as much as a simple walk.
Crystal Palace Park was laid out to showcase the Great Exhibition's glass-and-iron Crystal Palace after it moved here from Hyde Park in 1854, and though the building itself burned down in 1936, the park retains its most famous feature: a set of Victorian dinosaur sculptures, the first ever made, still scattered around a lake. Playgrounds, a boating lake, and open lawns make it a popular family spot today, and a newer dinosaur-themed play area builds on the original theme.
It's a park that rewards curiosity about its unusual history as much as a simple walk.
Duration
1h
Best time
early morning, morning, lunchtime, afternoon, early evening or evening
Intensity
Moderate walking
Good to know
Reviews
Lovely park full of open space to enjoy with your family and friends, including canine friends! This is one of my favourite parks in London! It is full of special whimsical places, from the Crystal Palace dinosaurs to the labyrinth.
Isabelle
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