Places in East London UK: Top Areas to Visit, Live, and Explore
East London has transformed over the last two decades into one of the most vibrant, creative, and culturally diverse parts of the capital. Whether you’re looking for street art, world food, nightlife, historic sites, or thriving local communities, there are countless places in East London UK worth discovering.
In this guide, we highlight the best neighborhoods, hidden gems, and must-visit destinations across East London — whether you’re planning to visit, move, or invest.
Where Is East London?
East London refers to the eastern part of Greater London, typically including the following boroughs:
- Tower Hamlets (Shoreditch, Bethnal Green, Canary Wharf)
- Hackney (Dalston, Hackney Central, Stoke Newington)
- Newham (Stratford, Plaistow)
- Waltham Forest (Walthamstow, Leyton)
- Barking & Dagenham
- Redbridge, Havering, and parts of Greenwich
East London lies east of the City of London and north or south of the River Thames depending on the borough.
Best Places in East London to Visit
Shoreditch
A creative hotspot known for:
- Brick Lane Street Art
- Boxpark Shoreditch (shipping container mall)
- Vintage markets and indie shops
- Buzzing nightlife with rooftop bars and underground clubs
A must for art lovers, foodies, and nightlife seekers.
Stratford
Once home to the 2012 London Olympics, now a major hub for retail and regeneration.
- Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park: Green space, sports venues, and bike trails
- Westfield Stratford City: One of Europe’s largest shopping centres
- ArcelorMittal Orbit Slide: Ride the world’s tallest tunnel slide
Great for families and shoppers alike.
Walthamstow
A leafy, creative neighborhood that balances urban life with green escapes.
- God’s Own Junkyard: Neon art wonderland
- Walthamstow Village: Charming pubs and cafés
- Epping Forest: Walks, cycling, and picnics
One of the most desirable residential spots in East London.
Canary Wharf
A gleaming financial district that’s also a growing lifestyle destination.
- Sky Garden at 1 Canada Square
- Crossrail Place Roof Garden
- Luxury shopping and dining on the riverside
Ideal for professionals and high-end city living.
Hackney
Cool, diverse, and full of character.
- London Fields & Broadway Market
- Victoria Park
- Hackney Wick: Craft breweries, galleries, and canal-side bars
A haven for creatives, young professionals, and foodies.
Bethnal Green
Close to Shoreditch but with a more local, community feel.
- V&A Museum of Childhood
- Columbia Road Flower Market (Sundays)
- Strong Bangladeshi heritage and culinary scene
Great for culture and heritage walks.
Dalston & Stoke Newington
Hipster central with a rich cultural mix.
- Ridley Road Market: Afro-Caribbean produce and street food
- Rio Cinema: Vintage art deco cinema
- Church Street: Boutique shops and coffee spots
Perfect for alternative London experiences.
Best Places in East London to Live
Looking for residential areas with good transport links, schools, and lifestyle amenities?
| Area | Best For |
| Leyton | First-time buyers, good value |
| Stratford | Families and commuters |
| Hackney Wick | Young professionals, creatives |
| Forest Gate | Up-and-coming with Victorian homes |
| Barking | Regeneration and affordable prices |
All areas are well-served by Tube, Overground, and National Rail services into central London.
Shopping & Markets in East London
- Old Spitalfields Market – Designer stalls, food courts, and pop-up shops
- Roman Road Market – East End tradition with a community feel
- Brick Lane Market – Antiques, fashion, and global cuisine
- Broadway Market – Organic produce, street eats, and artisan goods
A shopper’s paradise for vintage lovers and food adventurers.
Arts & Culture Hotspots
- Whitechapel Gallery – Contemporary art exhibitions
- Theatre Royal Stratford East – Historic performances and modern plays
- Hackney Empire – Live comedy, music, and drama
- Rich Mix (Shoreditch) – Independent cinema, art, and events
East London is London’s beating creative heart.
Top Foodie Places in East London
East London is a culinary melting pot with cuisines from around the globe.
- Dishoom (Shoreditch) – Bombay café classics
- Berber & Q (Haggerston) – Middle Eastern BBQ
- Smokestak (Brick Lane) – Smoked meats and cocktails
- Rasa (Stoke Newington) – Vegetarian South Indian delights
- Hawksmoor (Canary Wharf) – Premium steakhouse by the river
From street food to fine dining, East London serves it all.
Riverside Walks & Parks
- Victoria Park – Boating lake, skatepark, and weekend events
- Mile End Park – Green corridor through Tower Hamlets
- Thames Path (East) – Views from Limehouse to Greenwich
- Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park – Sports, gardens, and playgrounds
Escape the hustle without leaving London.
Conclusion
From trendy food spots and riverside walks to vintage markets and modern high-rises, the places in East London UK reflect the city’s energy, diversity, and constant evolution. Whether you’re looking to explore for a day or settle down for years, East London has something for everyone.
Plan your visit today, and see why East London is one of the most exciting and liveable parts of the capital.
FAQs
1. What are the safest areas in East London?
Walthamstow, Stratford, and parts of Hackney like London Fields are considered relatively safe with strong community networks.
2. Is East London good for tourists?
Yes! East London offers rich culture, art, food, and history — less crowded than Central London and often more affordable.
3. Where is the best street art in East London?
Shoreditch and Brick Lane are the epicentres of London’s street art scene, featuring works by Banksy, Stik, and global artists.
4. Is East London expensive to live in?
It depends on the area. Hackney and Shoreditch can be pricey, but places like Leyton, Barking, and Forest Gate offer better value.
5. What’s the trendiest place in East London right now?
Hackney Wick and Peckham (just on the south-east edge) are buzzing with creative energy, new businesses, and nightlife.
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