Shirley Area Guide

Situated on the edge of London and boasting fantastic green spaces and parklands, Shirley is the ideal home for anyone who wants easy access to the capital, without the hustle and bustle of city life. A property in Shirley ensures you benefit from Croydon's excellent transport links and shopping opportunities while also enjoying the embrace of a close-knit community.

WELCOME TO SHIRLEY

Just a 20-minute train journey from London Victoria Station and all the excitement of the country’s capital, Shirley also benefits from a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. The nearby Shirley Hills, South Norwood Country Park and Coombe Woods guarantee you have plenty of open space to explore, too. For many years, the local Croydon area has been a popular choice amongst those looking for a home within touching distance of London, most notably Ronnie Corbet, Kate Moss and Ian Wright.

SHIRLEY IS MADE FOR FAMILIES

A property in Shirley is ideally suited to families, couples looking to the future and young professionals who desire a slower pace of life. Its unbeatable transport links mean the commute is quick and easy, while the area also benefits from several outstanding schools.

GETTING AROUND IN SHIRLEY

There are four train stations within five miles of Shirley - East Croydon, West Croydon, West Wickham and Eden Park. East Croydon is by far the closest and best connected of these stations. Services run from the station to London Bridge, London Victoria and St Pancras every 10-15 minutes, with journeys lasting anywhere between 20-34 minutes.

A SHORT HISTORY OF SHIRLEY

While the first recorded mention of Shirley comes from the 14th Century, it wasn't until the late 18th Century that the village began to expand. In the post-war years, the area experienced significant growth, though much of its woodland remains undeveloped to this day.

THE SHIRLEY WINDMILL 

Shirley is home to one of only four windmills in the Greater London area that are open to the public. Having been struck by lightning twice, the damaged building was finally repaired and opened for visits in 1996.

SHOPPING AND ENTERTAINMENT IN SHIRLEY

Homeowners with a property in Shirley enjoy varied shopping, entertainment and dining scenes. Both the Q-Bar and Helvadere offer excellent menus, while The Crown, Shirley Inn and The Cricketers are all famous watering holes. Nearby Croydon provides residents with multi-screen cinemas, a more comprehensive selection of bars and restaurants and easy access to London's cultural highlights, too.