A Victorian-era drinking fountain located on Surrey Street in Croydon has been refurbished and reconnected to the water supply.

Originally constructed in 1896, this public water source was inaugurated by the local mayor to celebrate the completion of a redevelopment project.

Additionally, a modern push-button mechanism has been added to enable water to flow from the fountain’s lion-shaped spout.

The initiative was a collaboration between the Heritage of London Trust (HOLT) and Croydon Council. During the project, over 300 young individuals engaged with conservators and participated in creative workshops as part of HOLT’s youth outreach program.

This drinking fountain is a testament to Victorian artistry and public architecture, crafted from late 19th-century materials such as faience (glazed terracotta), granite, and cast iron.

HOLT notes that the first public drinking fountain in London was installed at St Sepulchre Without Newgate church in 1859, and by the year 1900, numerous fountains had been erected throughout the city.

When the Surrey Street fountain was established, access to clean drinking water had improved significantly compared to 1859. However, drinking fountains were still considered a fundamental amenity in public areas, according to HOLT.

Dr. Nicola Stacey from the trust expressed her joy in supporting the restoration of this historic fountain, which was a source of great local pride over 130 years ago.

Resident ‘King’ Louis remarked, “I really appreciate the work that’s been done here. I’ll make sure to keep an eye on it and safeguard it.” Another local, Maggie, commented, “It’s fantastic to see it looking so great and, even better, functioning well.”