Residents, traders and community groups will come together on Friday 13 November to celebrate 750 years of Surrey Street Market.
Dating back to its royal charter in 1276, Surrey Street has played an important role in Croydon’s history and remains a valued destination for shoppers, visitors and local businesses.
The lunchtime celebration will bring together traders, performers, community organisations and residents to mark this significant milestone. Visitors can enjoy performances, meet local organisations, explore extra stalls and support the traders who keep the market thriving.
“Few places can say they have served their community for 750 years. Surrey Street Market can, and that is something Croydon can be incredibly proud of.
For centuries, the market has been shaped by the people who trade here, shop here and spend time here. It remains a vibrant part of our borough, supporting independent businesses and bringing communities together.
As we celebrate this special anniversary, I would like to thank everyone who has played a part in Surrey Street’s story. I hope residents, workers and visitors will join us on 13 November to celebrate this historic milestone and show their support for the traders who continue to make Surrey Street such a valued part of Croydon life.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
Entertainment will be from 11.30am-2pm, with the main event from 12-1pm, on Friday 13 November.
Visitors will be treated to an array of vibrant performances from Croydon’s many communities: Croydon-based Rhythm Generation, with West African musical performances; South Asian dance company Beeja Dance performing to the great tunes and rhythms of Bollywood; and Global Grooves will be bringing their giant carnival friends – the Padmini and Sivaji puppets.
For those who enjoyed Croydon Harvest, there will be the return of the Vegetable Nannies and The Learned Pig – a nod to the historic link to The Walnut Fair that first ran in Surrey Street in the 1300s.
From 12-4pm, visitors can visit an exhibition to find out more about Amplifying Surrey Street. The £4.4m project is improving the market for traders and visitors – with new gateways, greenery, bringing empty units back into use and holding cultural events to attract more visitors. Pop along to find out what’s next for the project. Find out more.
As part of the 750th year celebrations, a striking Surrey Street mural was commissioned by the Council and can be seen in High Street. Hear the artist Vic Lee talk about his work at 6pm on Wednesday 18 November in Croydon Clocktower. Book your place here.
