France's captain Thierry Dusautoir looks from a window after a press conference at the Selsdon Park Hotel and Golf Club in Croydon. Photo / Getty Images
France's captain Thierry Dusautoir looks from a window after a press conference at the Selsdon Park Hotel and Golf Club in Croydon. Photo / Getty Images
Some members of the French rugby team are reportedly unhappy with their hotel placement in Croydon for the Rugby World Cup, with the French newspaper Metro News describing the modest South London borough as "dull and monotonous".
It's thebirthplace of model Kate Moss and it's been optimistically described by a local tour guide as "Britain's most interesting town" - but what is there to do in Croydon anyway?
1. Croydon Clocktower
The historic clocktower is an arts and museum complex. Photo / iStock
This historic clocktower is an arts and museum complex, housing the Museum of Croydon, an independent cinema and a café and bar. The museum tells the story of Croydon from 1800 to the present day and could be useful for team members who'd like to appreciate their residence further.
2. French restaurants
There's no chance of the French team missing their home cuisine with several French restaurants in Croydon. Photo / iStock
French players missing their home cuisine should be well sorted in Croydon - there are several French restaurants on offer, including The Chateau and La Racasse. However, it's arguable whether they'll be satiated by a British interpretation.
3. Lloyd Park
The team could head to Lloyd Park for an ice cream. Photo / iStock
While there will be plenty of time to run about on grass during the World Cup, those looking for more recreational activities can hop on a tram to Lloyd Park, one of the largest parks in the area. There's plenty of sporting activities on offer, plus horse rides and an ice cream van.
4. Croydon Airport
Croydon housed the world's first international airport terminal Photo / Getty Images
The humble town of Croydon actually housed the world's first international airport terminal. Established in 1920, the airport was in use until 1959. The historic airport's visitor's centre is only open on the first Sunday of the month, so visits will need to be planned in advance.
5. Croydon Palace
The Croydon palace was home to the Archbishop of Canterbury for over 500 years. Photo / iStock
This stately manor was home to the Archbishop of Canterbury for over 500 years, with prominent regular visitors including Henry III and Queen Elizabeth I. If Croydon was good enough for them, surely it should be good enough for the French?
