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Selhurst Park Stadium: Historic Home of Crystal Palace FC

Historic Selhurst Park Stadium in South London, home to Crystal Palace FC since 1924, blending rich football heritage with evolving modern charm.

Selhurst Park Stadium, located in London’s Croydon borough, has been the iconic home of Crystal Palace Football Club since 1924. Designed by renowned architect Archibald Leitch, this stadium blends rich football heritage with evolving modern facilities. With a seating capacity of around 25,500, it has hosted international matches, Olympic football games, and remains a passionate fortress for Eagles supporters. The stadium features distinctive stands like the Arthur Wait and Holmesdale Road, and is poised for future redevelopment.

A brief summary to Selhurst Park Stadium

  • Holmesdale Rd, London, SE25 6PU, GB
  • Duration: 1 to 4 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Attend a Crystal Palace Premier League match to experience the stadium’s renowned atmosphere.
  • Explore the distinct stands—Main Stand, Arthur Wait, Holmesdale Road, and Whitehorse Lane—for varied perspectives.
  • Check for stadium tours or special events to learn about its rich history and architecture.
  • Visit nearby amenities including food and drink options to enhance your matchday experience.
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Getting There

  • Train

    Take a train to Selhurst Station, located approximately 1.2 km from Selhurst Park. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk along pedestrian-friendly routes. Trains run frequently from central London stations with fares ranging from £3 to £6 one way.

  • Bus

    Several bus routes serve Holmesdale Road near Selhurst Park, including routes 75 and 157. Bus journeys from central Croydon or London take 20-40 minutes depending on traffic. Single fares cost around £2 to £3.

  • Car

    Driving to Selhurst Park is possible but parking is limited near the stadium on matchdays. Nearby paid parking lots and street parking may be available with charges around £5-£10. Expect traffic delays before and after events.

  • Walking

    For visitors staying in Croydon or nearby neighborhoods, walking to Selhurst Park is feasible and takes 20-30 minutes over mostly flat urban terrain. The route is accessible and safe during daylight hours.

Selhurst Park Stadium location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Selhurst Park Stadium

A Century of Football Legacy in South London

Selhurst Park Stadium stands as a testament to over 100 years of football history. Acquired by Crystal Palace FC in 1922 for £2,750 from the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway Company, the stadium was designed by Scottish architect Archibald Leitch and officially opened on 30 August 1924 by the Lord Mayor of London. Initially featuring only one stand—the Main Stand—the ground quickly became a hub for football, hosting its first international match between England and Wales in 1926. Over the decades, Selhurst Park has witnessed the rise of Crystal Palace from lower divisions to the Premier League, becoming synonymous with the club’s identity and community.

Architectural Evolution and Key Features

The stadium’s architecture reflects a blend of historic and modern elements. The original Main Stand, dating from 1924, has been upgraded multiple times, now seating 5,460 spectators plus press facilities. The Arthur Wait Stand, built in 1969 and named after the club’s influential chairman, provides a significant section for visiting fans and showcases classic stadium design. The Holmesdale Road Stand, the newest addition completed in 1994, replaced older terraces and offers modern amenities. The Whitehorse Lane Stand, known for its family-friendly atmosphere, includes luxury boxes and seating for executive guests. Floodlights were first installed in 1953, with a landmark match featuring Real Madrid celebrating upgraded lighting in 1962.

Sporting and Cultural Significance

Selhurst Park is more than just a football stadium; it has been a venue for diverse sporting events including Olympic football matches during the 1948 Summer Olympics. It has also hosted boxing, bicycle polo, and music concerts, reflecting its role as a multi-purpose community landmark. The stadium’s atmosphere is renowned for its passionate and vocal Crystal Palace supporters, often creating an intimidating environment for visiting teams. The club’s nickname, The Eagles, and mascots Alice and Pete the Eagle, further enrich the cultural tapestry that surrounds Selhurst Park.

Challenges and Redevelopment Plans

Financial difficulties in the 1980s led to the sale of parts of the stadium’s land, including to Sainsbury’s supermarket, which still occupies adjacent grounds. Ownership changes followed, with the stadium passing through various hands before Crystal Palace FC regained control in the 2010s. The club has ambitious redevelopment plans to modernize Selhurst Park, including a major refurbishment of the Main Stand aimed at increasing capacity to approximately 35,000. These plans seek to preserve the stadium’s historic charm while enhancing facilities for fans and players alike.

Visitor Experience and Amenities

Visitors to Selhurst Park can enjoy a stadium that balances tradition with comfort. The ground offers well-equipped seating areas, hospitality suites, bars, and catering options including barbecue facilities. The stadium’s outdoor areas and large screens enhance matchday experiences. While not the newest stadium in the Premier League, Selhurst Park’s character and community spirit make it a unique venue. Its location in Croydon places it within a vibrant urban environment, accessible yet distinct.

Legacy and Community Connection

Selhurst Park remains a symbol of resilience and local pride. The stadium’s long-standing presence in South London has fostered a strong bond between Crystal Palace FC and its supporters. It stands as a reminder of the club’s journey through English football history, from its early days as The Glaziers to its current Premier League status. As redevelopment unfolds, Selhurst Park continues to be a cherished landmark where history, sport, and community converge.

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