The park was originally part of the manor of Addington and the area was used by Henry VIII for hunting purposes.

[1] The original manor house was replaced in 1768 by Addington Palace and the grounds were laid out by Capability Brown in 1781.

[2] Most of the 24.50 acres which make up the public park were purchased from the owners of the 500 acres (200 ha) Addington Palace Estate by Croydon Council in 1930.

[1][2] Tennis courts were purchased after World War II.

It is also served by Gravel Hill tram stop Source[1][2]