Crystal Palace's Chris Richards (centre) and team-mates on an open-top bus pass by fans during the FA Cup winners parade in London. (Image: Yui Mok)
Crystal Palace's Chris Richards (centre) and team-mates on an open-top bus pass by fans during the FA Cup winners parade in London. (Image: Yui Mok)
Crystal Palace, already known for its towering views, indie shops and leafy parkland, just added another jewel to its crown: an FA Cup win for the ages.
The Eagles soared to a 1-0 victory against Manchester City in a sold-out Wembley Stadium, with Ebere Eze’s first-half strike securing the club’s first-ever major trophy in its 164-year history.
As the final whistle blew and red and blue flags waved in the air, the celebrations that started in Wembley quickly made their way back home - to the beating heart of south London.
The Bank Holiday Trophy Parade on Monday (June 26) was pure Palace: a little late, a lot loud, and bursting with pride.
Crystal Palace fan Mark Parkinson, 61, with grandson Mason Russell, 10 weeks old before the FA Cup winners parade in London.
Crystal Palace fan Mark Parkinson, 61, with grandson Mason Russell, 10 weeks old before the FA Cup winners parade in London.
(Image: Yui Mok/PA Wire)
Thousands lined the streets, chanting, cheering and celebrating alongside the team.
On board the open-top bus were the heroes of the hour - Eze, Dean Henderson, the full squad and coaching team - with a second bus carrying support staff and legends like Mark Bright, who didn’t miss a beat, going live on Instagram as they rolled through.
But Crystal Palace isn’t just the name of the club.
It’s a community that knows how to throw a party, whether you're holding a pint at Westow House, sipping natural wine at Crystal Palace Wine Club, or getting your brunch fix at Brown & Green by the station.
There’s a creative spirit in the air here, from the boutique shops of The Triangle to the pop-ups and markets that bring the high street alive every weekend.
La Gelatiera serves up small-batch ice cream that'll rival any goal celebration and is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
For those who fancy a drink with a view, The Faber Fox has you covered with sunset pints and Palace pride.
And of course, there's Crystal Palace Park, one of London’s most unique green spaces.
Crystal Palace Park
Crystal Palace Park (Image: Poppy Huggett)
Sprawling across 200 acres, it’s home to the famous Victorian dinosaur sculptures that have enchanted generations of visitors (and sparked more than a few imaginative games).
You’ll also find a tranquil boating lake, a charming maze, a skatepark, playgrounds, and even remnants of the Crystal Palace itself.
Fitness fans flock to the National Sports Centre with its Olympic-sized pool and athletics track, while weekenders stroll through the Italian terraces, take in panoramic views, or watch the peacocks strut near the café.