Spring break hotspots: because a change is as good as a rest
Stuck for plans this Spring Bank Holiday? EastCroydonCool has rounded up five top picks to make the most of your long weekend…
Nothing like a Spring break after a long hard winter. But since a change is as good as a rest, those staying local might benefit from mixing things up a little closer to home. Forget the same old haunts – here are five new(ish!) places to check out over the upcoming Bank Holidays…
PLAYBOX @ BOXPARK
School’s out and it’s time to play. And those who appreciate a little friendly competition, should head to PLAYBOX at BOXPARK Croydon.
This huge social gaming paradise blends classic entertainment with high-tech twists.
Alongside interactive karaoke (where you can unleash your inner pop star) and retro arcade games (giving mis-spent youth vibes), Playbox also brings a fresh spin to traditional games like pool and darts.
With its striking bar and food on tap (courtesy of Boxpark’s food traders), Playbox is the great hangout spot for all ages (although it’s adults only after 7pm).
99 George St, Croydon, CR0 1LD
TAO
Providing inner peace and harmony in central Croydon is a tall ask – but Tao is giving it a good go.
On a mission to “restore soul and body”, this little oasis serves up premium specialty coffees alongside a healthy brunch menu.
The Buddha bowls will ensure you hit your 5 a day but since Tao philosophy is all about balance, a sweet treat from the pastry selection pairs perfectly.
So, if having the kids at home over the long weekends is taking its toll – take a moment for yourself in Tao – and watch the world pass by as the natural light moves around the room.
2A Ruskin Square, Croydon CR0 2WF
Tokia Square
Good things come to those who wait – and Croydon sure was waiting a while for this one.
Tucked away on the second floor of Grants building, this Asian food court has brought Chinese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese and Singaporean dishes (and some much-needed footfall) to this part of the high street.
The set up also accommodates “dark kitchens” (commercial kitchen spaces dedicated to fulfilling food delivery orders through online ordering platforms) meaning a taste of Asia is now even closer to home.
Unit 9, Grants, 20 High St, Croydon CR0 1QB
Heavenly Desserts
Don’t let the name fool you – Heavenly desserts offer far more than the name suggests.
Whilst the ‘UK’s Number One Dessert Spot’ (quite literally) can’t be beaten for its selection of waffles, croffles, crepes and more, it’s in-house ‘Brunch Society’ menu provides an exciting twist on that much loved in-between meal.
It features signature dishes like Keralan Spiced Beans on Sourdough, Bacon & Egg Croffle, and Chai & Pecan Granola. Served every day until 4pm, it’s also great for when those mealtime routines get all mixed up during the holidays.
2-3 Dingwall Rd, Croydon CR0 2LX
MYPT Reformer Club
New Year goals starting to wane? MyPT have got you.
Established in 2015, this community Personal Training gym serves as an elite hub for fitness fanatics whilst running innovative programmes which are tailored to all levels of experience.
In Spring 2025, they are adding a new product to their services – a Reformer Pilates studio.
Fast becoming “Londoners Favourite exercise” (Evening Standard) several dedicated studios have opened in the Borough recently, but MyPT will be the first to bring the trend to the town centre.
Utilising the principles of Pilates by focusing on core strength, flexibility, and posture, sessions incorporate a specialised machine. This bed-like frame with a sliding carriage, springs, pulleys, and ropes is worryingly reminiscent of old torture devices – but its various elements allow for a variety of exercises and adjustable resistance rather than anything more sinister (although 2 minutes into a class, you might disagree!)
MyPT Studio, 36-48 St George’s Walk, Croydon, CR0 1YJ
