Allotments in Croydon

Allotment gardening provides a wide range of benefits to communities and the environment. It is also a considerable source of joy for gardeners and can provide you with plenty of fresh produce and exercise. There are 17 allotment sites in Croydon. Their management is a mix of independent allotment societies and sites directly let by Croydon Council. 

Allotment plot rental costs for 1 year

The current rent for a full plot is £87.75 (including apiaries). 

Half and quarter plots will be charged at 50% and 25% respectively.

Allotment sizes

A full allotment plot is approximately 250 square metres and is designed to feed a family of 4, all year round. 

A half plot (125 square metres) is recommended as a good starting point for those with less experience.
 

Allotment discounts

Croydon Allotment Service offer a 50% discount to the following individuals: 

• plot holders in receipt of a state pension
• plot holders in receipt of employment benefit
• plot holders who are registered as disabled

This is only applicable to full and half size plots.

50% concessionary tariffs will only apply for up to one full-sized plot (or equivalent) per household. Second, third, etc. plots will be charged at full price. 

Plot holders wishing to apply for a concessionary tariff must do so before making payment, as discounts cannot be refunded or applied retrospectively. 

Plot holders must provide evidence that they meet the above criteria and apply before 1 October each year.  

If you have any questions or want to apply for a discount, please email us at allotments@croydon.gov.uk.

Managing your allotment

Managing an allotment requires commitment. We will work in partnership with Allotment Societies to ensure that allotments are being cultivated by plot holders. 

In the interest of fairness to individuals on the allotment waiting list, Croydon Council reserves the right (stipulated within the leaseholder agreement) to assign new plot holders to allotments that do not meet cultivation standards. 

How to get an allotment plot

To rent an allotment plot from Croydon Council you must live within the London Borough of Croydon.

Allotments can be used for fruit or vegetable cultivation, and keeping hens or rabbits. Across our allotment sites, we also have designated plots for beekeeping. A specific beekeeping plot waiting list exists. This is separate from the standard allotment waiting list. When you apply to be on the waiting list, please specify that you are interested in a beekeeping plot, if applicable.   

All allotment sites currently have waiting lists. To be added to a waiting list for an independent allotment society, please contact the sites directly. 

To be added to a waiting list for a Council allotment, please see the allotment waiting list.

For more information, see our allotment information pack (PDF 573KB).

Please consider the location of independent and direct let sites in relation to your home.