Neighbourhood and heritage walks

South Norwood heritage walk

South Norwood has a rich history, but the town we see today dates mostly from the 1800s and early 1900s. Local industry boomed after the Croydon Canal opened in 1809, and the town centre expanded after the opening of the new railway station in 1839.

The Victorian and Edwardian eras were a defining time for South Norwood, due to the ingenuity of its inventors. In addition, the area’s special architectural and historic interest is recognised by being a conservation area.

About the walk

This walk uncovers South Norwood’s innovative past, exploring its historic streets and spaces, and highlighting its greatest inventions.

Distance: 2.5km (1.5 miles)

Time: 45 minutes

The walk includes some steps, but they can be avoided.

South Norwood heritage walk guides

South Norwood heritage walk guide and map (PDF, 1.5MB)

South Norwood heritage walk guide and map, print-and-fold version (PDF, 1.9MB)

South Norwood 20th Century architecture walk

This walk explores South Norwood’s less well-known twentieth century architecture. The route uncovers fascinating and stylistically diverse examples of industrial, residential and public buildings, easily overlooked in this predominantly Victorian and Edwardian town centre. 

About the walk

Taking in the Brutalist-style South Norwood Library (recently shortlisted for an Architecture Today Award) and Art Deco Balmoral Court, this walk celebrates notable church designs, community art and a former 1980s police station which is now home to a sixth form academy. It also includes the Archibald Leitch designed football stadium at Selhurst Park.

Distance: Approximately 3.5km 

Time: 45 to 60 minutes 

The walk includes some steps, but they can be avoided.

South Norwood 20th Century architecture walk guide

South Norwood 20th Century architecture walk guide and map (PDF, 1.2MB)

These walks are part of the South Norwood Regeneration Programme, celebrating the local high street and heritage and funded by Historic England's High Street Heritage Action Zone programme.