(Photo: Colin Wing)
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Open:
Saturday 10:00–17:00
+ Sunday 10:00–17:00
Description:
Heathfield is unique in Croydon as a fully working estate, surrounding a listed mansion, which has been run by the local authority since 1968. There is a ‘pick-your-own’ fruit farm, an ecology centre, orchard and wildlife sanctuary, and some 16 acres of public gardens. The formal gardens around the listed mansion feature superb rhododendrons and trees. The Old Varieties Orchard contains only pre-1900s varieties and is managed organically. It offers a valuable habitat for endangered species such as dormice, stag beetles and great crested and palmate newts. Ponds and a traditional farm hedgerow provide further habitats.
Activities:
Pantry Café. Tree trails, 11am and 3pm. Regular orchard tours.
Entrance:
Ballards Way, off Coombe Lane
Nearest postcode: CR0 5RH
Sells tickets.
Bus:
Tram Route 3 (direction New Addington) to Coombe Lane.
Stations:
East Croydon / West Croydon, thence tram
Car Parking:
Riesco Drive, off Ballards Way. Blue badge parking in front of Heathfield House.
Access:
Road and paths avoid steps. Some uneven surfaces and narrow paths.
Dogs:
Working assistance dogs only
Conditions:
No dogs allowed in wildlife sanctuary because of sheep.
Further information:
Nearby Gardens (click on names for details):
Last updated: 03/07/2009