A Day in Purley, Surrey: Exploring with the Purley Quiz Trail and Town Souvenir
A Perfect Day Out in Purley, Surrey
Purley, located in the heart of Surrey, offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and modern amenities. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic escape, or a solo adventure, Purley has something for everyone. Whilst many might think it’s just a major road route through to London, stop and take a good close look and you’ll enjoy the history you’ll discover in this surprisingly rural area. Here’s a perfect itinerary for a day out in Purley.
Morning:
1. Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast in the centre of town where the cafés are known for their friendly atmosphere and hearty breakfast options. Enjoy a full English breakfast, freshly baked pastries, or a healthy smoothie bowl to kickstart your day.
2. Quiz Trail Time: Embark on the Quiz Trail around Purley! If you don’t know your way around it’s a superb way to get your bearings and to find areas that are tucked away. You’ll get to see some wonderful highlights of Purley. Then during the rest of the day, you won’t lose your way around – plus you won’t miss anything as we point you to look up, down and all around showing you historic markers!
3. Explore Riddlesdown Common: After breakfast, head to Riddlesdown Common for a refreshing morning walk. This beautiful natural area offers scenic trails, stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and a chance to spot local wildlife. The diverse flora and fauna make it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
Late Morning:
4. Visit Kenley Aerodrome: A short drive from Riddlesdown Common, Kenley Aerodrome is a historic World War II airfield. Take a leisurely walk around the site and explore the various information boards detailing its significant role during the war. It’s a fascinating spot for history buffs and offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Lunchtime:
5. Lunch at The Jolly Farmers: Head back into Purley town to The Jolly Farmers for a delightful lunch. This charming pub offers a warm atmosphere and a menu full of traditional British dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for fish and chips, a hearty pie, or a fresh salad, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Afternoon:
6. Relax in Rotary Field: After lunch, make your way to Rotary Field, a lovely community park with sports facilities, a playground, and plenty of open space for relaxation. If you’re visiting with children, they can enjoy the playground while you unwind on the grassy fields or take a leisurely stroll around the park. It’s the site of historic happenings which you’ll discover when you’re there -it’s fascinating and unique to Purley!
7. Visit Purley Way Playing Fields: Continue your afternoon at Purley Way Playing Fields, a spacious park perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. Enjoy a game of football or cricket, or simply take a walk and soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The park is also great for a family picnic if you’re looking to extend your relaxation time.
Late Afternoon:
8. Afternoon Tea at a local hostelry: If you’re peckish, indulge in a quintessentially British afternoon tea. Treat yourself to a selection of teas, freshly baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and an assortment of cakes and pastries. Or just take a break for a fresh coffee. It’s the perfect way to recharge and enjoy some downtime. Our Purley Quiz Trail is packed with local history - so you'll have lots to read about and if you're with friends, to chat about over food and drink!
9. Explore Purley: Spend some time wandering through Purley. Browse the independent shops and boutiques, pick up unique gifts, and perhaps find a special souvenir to remember your day. The town also has several historic buildings and landmarks worth admiring. Here’s a famous TV couple from the hugely popular sitcom ‘Terry & June’ - based in Purley!
Evening:
10. Evening Walk Along the London Loop: Before dinner, take a leisurely walk along a section of The London Loop, which passes through Purley. Enjoy the scenic views and the tranquillity of the countryside as the day begins to wind down. The paths are well-maintained and offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle. The London Loop is a long-distance walking route that passes through Purley. This scenic trail offers a fantastic way to explore the natural beauty of the area, with various sections suitable for different fitness levels. Altogether the London Loop is 150 miles long circling London so you might want to set some extra time aside!
11. Dinner in a local pub or restaurant: For your final stop, enjoy dinner in one of the various offerings of amazing food. There are plenty of welcoming dining spots known for their delicious food and friendly atmosphere. Choose from a menu of hearty dishes, including seasonal specialties and classic pub fare. Pair your meal with a refreshing drink and relax as you reflect on your perfect day in Purley.
Purley, Surrey, is a town rich in natural beauty and local charm, offering a perfect escape for a day out. From scenic walks and historical sites to delicious local cuisine and relaxing parks, Purley promises a memorable experience for all. Plan your visit and discover the many delights this vibrant town has to offer.
As the day draws to a close, reflect on the memories made and the sights seen during your time in Purley, knowing that there's always more to discover on your next visit to this enchanting corner of Surrey.
