More info: The arrival of the railways and other communications advances in the 19th century saw the growth of Croydon in to a commuter town for London. By the early 20th century, Croydon was an important industrial area, known for car manufacture, metal working and Croydon Airport. In the mid 20th century these sectors were replaced by retail and service industries brought about by massive redevelopment which in turn, saw the rise of office blocks and the Whitgift Centre which at the time was the largest shopping centre in Greater London.
East Croydon is a major hub of the national railway transport system, with frequent fast services to central London, Brighton and the south coast. The town is also at the centre of the only tramway system in southern England.
Apart from its large central shopping district, Croydon has a number of smaller shopping areas, especially towards the southern end of the town which also has many restaurants. Boxpark adjacent to the busy East Croydon rail station, is a food and retail park providing the best street food, drinks and entertainment, under one roof.