Croydon sits just 10 miles from central London, with trains from East Croydon station reaching London Victoria in under 20 minutes—a commute that makes it a practical base for budget-conscious visitors. (Leonardo Hotels) This guide weighs the trade-offs: fast rail links and lower hotel prices against a mixed safety reputation, and introduces a separate Croydon Hotel in Melbourne for those visiting Australia. We draw on official property data, crime statistics, and guest reviews to give you a balanced picture.

Last checked: 2026-08-31

Property Name: Castello’s Croydon Hotel · Location: Croydon, Victoria, Australia (Melbourne’s eastern suburbs) · Type: Family-friendly pub with bistro dining, sports bar, and event spaces · Notable Features: Award-winning bistro (2017 AHA VIC State winner), kids’ play zone, outdoor area

How we researched this

Last checked: 2026-08-31.

Sources reviewed: official hotel website, Trip.com, CrimeRate.co.uk, CrimeSafe, Eufy UK blog, HikersBay, TrustedHousesitters forum, Numbeo.

No on-site visit, no staff interview, no independent price verification.

Key facts at a glance

1 Fast rail links to central London
  • Croydon offers fast rail links to central London, with East Croydon station around 20 minutes by train from London Victoria. (Leonardo Hotels)
2 Leonardo Hotel London Croydon guest rating
  • Guest rating approximately 8.7–8.8 out of 10 based on more than 5,000 reviews. (Trip.com)
3 Croydon crime rate 2023
  • Croydon’s overall crime rate was 109 crimes per 1,000 people in 2023, placing it in the mid-range for England but above the national average. (CrimeRate.co.uk)
Castello’s Croydon Hotel – Snapshot
LabelValue
Property NameCastello’s Croydon Hotel
LocationCroydon, Victoria, Australia (Melbourne’s eastern suburbs)
TypeFamily-friendly pub with bistro dining, sports bar, and event spaces
Notable FeaturesAward-winning bistro (2017 AHA VIC State winner), kids’ play zone, outdoor area

Is Croydon a good place to stay when visiting London?

For travellers watching their budget, Croydon presents a compelling trade-off. The town centre is roughly 10 miles (16 km) from central London, and trains from East Croydon station reach London Victoria in under 20 minutes. That speed compares favourably with many outer London suburbs, and the frequent service means you can easily return after a late show.

Accommodation costs are noticeably lower than in central London. Hotels like the Leonardo Hotel London Croydon (formerly Jurys Inn) and the Premier Inn London Croydon Town Centre offer standard mid-range rooms at prices that undercut equivalent properties in Zones 1–2. The Leonardo Hotel earns consistently high guest ratings around 8.7–8.8 out of 10, with reviewers praising cleanliness and the proximity to the station. (Trip.com)

How far is Croydon from central London?

Croydon is approximately 10 miles (16 km) by rail from central London. East Croydon station is the main hub, with direct trains to London Victoria (15–20 minutes), London Bridge (20–25 minutes), and St Pancras International (30 minutes via Thameslink).

What are the transport connections from Croydon?

Beyond the mainline railway, Croydon is served by the Tramlink network, which connects to Wimbledon and Beckenham, and by numerous bus routes. The M25 and A23 road corridors run nearby, though driving into central London is not recommended due to congestion and the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).

The bottom line: Croydon works well for visitors who value fast train access and lower hotel rates over being steps away from the attractions. The commuting time is short enough to make day trips to the West End or City feasible.

Is Croydon a safe area?

Safety is the most common concern raised by potential visitors. The data paints a nuanced picture. Croydon’s overall crime rate in 2023 was 109 crimes per 1,000 people, according to CrimeRate.co.uk – above the national average but below the rates of many inner London boroughs. The Fairfield ward, which covers parts of the town centre, has the highest crime concentration in the borough.

User-generated perception data from Numbeo rates crime in Croydon as “high” and safety walking alone at night as “low,” with moderate worries about mugging and robbery. However, some travel guides counter that Croydon is “among the top 20 safest boroughs in London” based on a 2022 crime rate of 86 per 1,000. The discrepancy partly reflects a rise in recorded crime between 2022 and 2023.

Is it safe to walk around Croydon at night?

Opinions vary. The travel guide HikersBay advises “We do not recommend walking at night,” while forum contributors on TrustedHousesitters report “We never felt unsafe.” A sensible approach is to stay in well-lit areas near the main hotels and avoid West Croydon and New Addington after dark.

Are there areas to avoid in Croydon?

West Croydon and New Addington are cited as higher-crime neighbourhoods. The “posh” parts of Croydon include Purley, South Croydon, and parts of Sanderstead, which are more residential and quieter. For visitors staying near East Croydon station, the immediate area is a typical busy urban centre; standard city precautions apply.

The pattern: Croydon’s safety reputation is polarising. The statistical risk is moderate, but individual experiences differ. The area around the main hotels and rail station is generally fine for daytime and early evening, but late-night solo walking is not recommended.

What’s happening to the Croydon Park Hotel?

The Croydon Park Hotel, a long-standing property in the town, is reportedly closed or under redevelopment as of 2025. No official reopening date has been announced by the owners. Travellers who come across older reviews or listings for this hotel should treat them as historical and look instead at current operational hotels like the Leonardo or Premier Inn.

Is the Croydon Park Hotel still open?

Multiple sources indicate the hotel is no longer accepting bookings. The exact status remains unconfirmed, but it is not available for public reservations.

What are the redevelopment plans for the Croydon Park Hotel?

No detailed plans have been published. The site may be earmarked for residential or mixed-use development, but nothing is official.

What is Jurys Inn called now?

Jurys Inn Croydon rebranded as Leonardo Hotel London Croydon in 2022. The change was part of a wider group-wide rebranding of the Jurys Inn and Leonardo Hotels portfolio. The hotel retains the same location, facilities, and management, and continues to operate as a mid-range business-and-leisure property.

When did Jurys Inn Croydon rebrand?

The rebranding took place in 2022, according to the Leonardo Hotels official site.

What is the current name of Jurys Inn Croydon?

The current name is Leonardo Hotel London Croydon. Some older booking platforms may still show the Jurys Inn name, but the hotel now operates under the Leonardo brand.

What makes Croydon famous?

Croydon is known for its large shopping centres (Centrale and Whitgift), its role as a major transport hub, and its cultural diversity. It also has a mixed reputation, partly stemming from urban decay and crime in the 1980s and 1990s. Famous residents include singer Kirsty MacColl and model Kate Moss, both of whom grew up in the area. The borough has been a filming location for scenes in The IT Crowd and Peep Show.

Why does Croydon have a bad reputation?

The bad reputation is rooted in a period of economic decline, high crime, and poorly planned redevelopment in the late 20th century. While the town has seen significant regeneration, some of that stigma persists.

What famous people live in Croydon?

Notable figures from Croydon include Kirsty MacColl, Kate Moss, actor Maxine Peake, and boxer David Haye. The area has also produced a number of musicians and athletes.

What was filmed in Croydon?

Croydon’s streets and buildings have appeared in British TV comedies like The IT Crowd and Peep Show, as well as films such as Anuvahood.

Castello’s Croydon Hotel: menu, reviews and photos

Switching lenses: the Croydon Hotel in Melbourne, Australia (operating as Castello’s Croydon Hotel) is frequently described as a family-friendly pub with bistro dining, a sports bar, and event spaces. It is located in Croydon, Victoria, in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.

What is on the Castello’s Croydon Hotel menu?

The bistro menu reportedly features classic Australian pub fare. Main courses are reported to range from AUD 20–35, and a seniors menu is reportedly available. The hotel also has a kids’ play zone, making it popular with families.

What do reviewers say about Castello’s Croydon Hotel?

On TripAdvisor, the venue holds a 4.0 out of 5 star rating based on over 200 reviews (as of 2025). Reviewers frequently praise the family atmosphere, the play area, and the quality of the bistro. According to online reviews, the hotel’s bistro was awarded the 2017 AHA VIC State Award for best bistro.

Is there a seniors menu at Croydon Hotel?

Yes, Castello’s Croydon Hotel offers a dedicated seniors menu with smaller portions and lower prices, available during specific hours.

Editor’s note: If you are visiting Melbourne, the Croydon Hotel is a solid choice for a casual meal with the family. The separate play zone means adults can enjoy a meal while children are entertained nearby.

Comparing Croydon hotel options

Property Name Location Type Average Price Range Best For Key Feature
Castello’s Croydon Hotel Croydon, Victoria, Australia Pub with dining & events Moderate (AUD 20–35 mains) Families, diners Award-winning bistro, kids’ play zone
Premier Inn London Croydon Town Centre Croydon, London Budget hotel chain Budget to mid-range Budget travellers, families Clean rooms, central location
Leonardo Hotel London Croydon Croydon, London Mid-range hotel Mid-range Business & leisure Near East Croydon station, high guest rating
Croydon Park Hotel (status) Croydon, London Former hotel (closed) N/A N/A Reportedly closed or under redevelopment

Pros and cons of staying in Croydon

Pros

  • Fast train links to central London (under 20 minutes to Victoria)
  • Lower hotel prices than central London
  • Good range of budget and mid-range options
  • Less touristy, more authentic London experience

Cons

  • Crime rate above national average; Fairfield ward has high crime
  • Limited nightlife and dining compared to central areas
  • Perception of safety is mixed; not ideal for late-night solo walking
  • Fewer direct attractions; requires commuting to see sights

Best for different travellers

  • Families – Castello’s Croydon Hotel in Melbourne offers a kids’ play zone and family-friendly atmosphere.
    In London, Premier Inn Croydon Town Centre is a reliable budget option with family rooms.
  • Budget travellers – Premier Inn and Leonardo Hotel provide affordable stays with good transport links. Croydon’s lower hotel prices make it a strong choice.
  • Solo visitors – Leonardo Hotel has a high guest rating and is well-lit near the station. Avoid walking alone late at night in the town centre.
  • Business travellers – Leonardo Hotel offers 24-hour reception, free Wi-Fi, and easy access to East Croydon station for commuting to Canary Wharf or the City.

Pricing and value

In Croydon, London, you can expect to pay roughly £70–£120 per night for a double room at a mid-range hotel like Leonardo Hotel or Premier Inn – significantly cheaper than central London hotels that often start above £150. Castello’s Croydon Hotel in Melbourne offers bistro mains at AUD 20–35, with a seniors menu available at lower prices.

Location and getting there

Croydon is located in South London, about 10 miles from central London. By train, East Croydon station offers frequent services to London Victoria, London Bridge, and St Pancras International. The station is also a stop on the Thameslink route, connecting to Luton and Gatwick airports. Within Croydon, the Tramlink network provides connections to Wimbledon and Beckenham. For Castello’s Croydon Hotel in Melbourne, it is located at 22–24 Main Street, Croydon, Victoria, about 30 km east of Melbourne’s CBD, accessible by the Lilydale railway line.

Alternatives to consider

If Croydon doesn’t suit your needs, consider these alternatives:

  • Travelodge London Croydon – Another budget chain near the town centre, with standard rooms.
  • Best Western London Croydon Acer Hotel – A mid-range independent hotel with a restaurant.
  • For Melbourne, alternative venues include Mountain View Hotel in Lilydale or Bush Inn in Croydon North.

Our pick

For London visitors: The Leonardo Hotel London Croydon offers the best balance of guest satisfaction, location, and value. Its proximity to East Croydon station and high rating (8.7–8.8/10) make it our top recommendation for a budget-conscious base.

For Melbourne diners and event planners: Castello’s Croydon Hotel is our pick for a family-friendly pub with an award-winning bistro, a seniors menu, and a dedicated kids’ play zone.

“Croydon UK is a great base for London.”

– TrustedHousesitters forum contributor, traveller using Croydon as a base

“We never felt unsafe.”

– TrustedHousesitters forum contributor, traveller commenting on Croydon stay
Additional sources

alphasecurity.services

Frequently asked questions

How far is Croydon from central London by train?

East Croydon station to London Victoria takes under 20 minutes. The distance is roughly 10 miles (16 km).

Is Croydon a good place for families visiting London?

Yes, for families on a budget. Hotels like Premier Inn and Leonardo Hotel offer family rooms, and the train commute is short enough to avoid fatigue. However, there are fewer free attractions in Croydon itself.

What is the difference between Croydon Hotel in Melbourne and Croydon hotels in London?

The Croydon Hotel in Melbourne (Castello’s) is a pub with dining and events, not a hotel for overnight stays. London’s Croydon hotels are standard accommodation properties. The two are unrelated except by name.

Does Castello’s Croydon Hotel have accommodation or only dining?

Castello’s Croydon Hotel is primarily a dining and events venue. It does not offer overnight accommodation. It is a pub with a bistro, sports bar, and function rooms.

What is the best way to get from Croydon to London Gatwick Airport?

Take a Thameslink train from East Croydon station directly to Gatwick Airport. The journey takes approximately 15–20 minutes, making it one of the fastest connections from Croydon.

Sources