The park will stay open throughout the regeneration projects, but you will notice changes to your usual routes and favourite spots. As this is a large and complex project, schedules may change. We’ll keep this page updated with key dates and details to help you plan your visit. All works are expected to be completed by summer 2026.
Key areas and timelines
Dinosaurs and Tidal Lakes (map point 10)
July 2025 to spring 2026
- Key footpaths around the Dinosaurs and Tidal Lakes will be open from March 2026. Construction hoardings will partially block your views of the Dinosaurs.
Italian Terraces (map points 1-5)
July 2025 to June 2026
- Closed for approximately 11 months for major restoration.
- Works include the creation of new step-free, accessible routes.
Dinosaur Playground (map point 8)
June 2025 to March 2026
- Open to park visitors from 20 March 2026.
Grand Centre Walk (map point 7)
November 2025 to March 2026
- Pedestrian access maintained throughout the works.
Visitor Centre (map point 6)
- Construction of the new Visitor Centre started in June 2025 and is due to be completed in June 2026.
Gate closures
Thicket Road Gate (map point C)
Now open for access to the park café and Crystal Palace station.
Sydenham Gate (map point E)
Closed from May 2025 to June 2026.
- Nearest alternatives: Fisherman’s Gate or The Vale.
Penge Gate (map point D)
Pedestrian entrance remains open with new pathways in place.
Car park closures
Sydenham Gate car park (map point E)
Closed from May 2025 to June 2026.
Penge Gate car park (map point D)
Now open with a new two-way entrance and exit.
All other car parks remain open as usual.
Planned works
This exciting regeneration project will breathe new life into the park, including:
- Restoration of the 30 Grade I-listed Dinosaur sculptures and their surrounding Tidal Lakes.
- A new dinosaur-themed playground for kids of all ages
- Restoration of the Grade II-listed Italian Terraces.
- Two new step-free routes from the centre of the park to Crystal Palace Parade.
- A new Visitor Centre, and a new maintenance facility for the grounds maintenance team
- A new feature entrance at Penge Gate.
- Improved footpaths, lighting and wayfinding around the Tidal Lakes and Italian Terraces.
- Sustainable drainage systems in key areas of the park to improve water management.
- New meadows, paleo-inspired planting and wildlife friendly shrubs will create rich habitats.
