East London

East London is the area located in the east and northeast of Central London. It is the area located north of the River Thames that has undergone extensive redevelopment though striving to preserve its culture and heritage.

Sights & Activities

One of its interesting destinations is the Barking Abbey, accessed via South View Drive. The abbey exists only in ruins today, though it is set in an open public space that is ideal for strolls. The abbey was said to be founded in 666.

Another historic structure is the Eastbury Manor House, located on Eastbury Square in the Borough of Barking and Dagenham. Owned by the National Trust, this fine example of Elizabethan buildings was built in the late 18th century for a merchant. It is open to the public during certain days of the week and those who wish to explore its interiors should do well to make arrangements beforehand.

The borough of Havering also has a historic residential structure set amidst beautiful public gardens. The Langtons is situated in Hornchurch and was built in the 18th century. The property is a favorite venue for weddings and well as picnics in Havering.

Those who wish to explore and make use of more extensive parkland should head out to Victoria Park, located within the borough of Tower Hamlets. This park is a known venue for open-air music performances, carnivals, and festivals. Children often head out to Victoria Park to make use of its play park, paddling pool, and catch glimpses of resident animals such as goats and deer. The public can also make use of its newly refurbished cricket net.

A visit to the Museum in Docklands on the Isle of Dogs will yield information on the history of the area and on the contribution of the River Thames to the city’s growth. The museum itself is housed in a Georgian-style warehouse that was built in the 19th century. Visitors can explore and view artifacts, photographs, and models that are displayed in chronological order.

Exploring East London would not be complete without a visit to the V&A Museum of Childhood along Roman Road in Bethnal Green. Established in 1872 and originally called the Bethnal Green Museum, its extensive collections include toys, costumes, and items related to childhood. Another item of interest that is contained in the museum is the statue of John Bell, a sculptor.

The borough of Tower Hamlets, where the Tower of London is located, is also considered part of East London, on the immediate east of Central London. This famous attraction is a UNESCO World Heritage site where much of London’s prominent events happened. The Tower of London is actually a complex of towers and other structures and is where the Crown Jewels are kept and displayed.

Eating Out

Finding a place to eat is not a problem in East London, as numerous restaurants offered varying local and international dishes are established here. Indian food is served at Chettinad on High Street North in East Ham while African dishes can be had at the Exceline Exotic Dishes African Restaurant on Mare Street in Hackney. On the other hand, seafood is the specialty of Winkies Seafood Ltd. on Roman Road in Bethnal Green. The Docklands also has numerous dining establishments, such as the Amerigo Vespuci Ltd. On Cabot Square, the La Tasca Ltd. on Hersmere Road, and the Smollensky’s on Nash Court.

There are also several pubs that call East London home, such as the Booty’s Riverside Bar on Narrow Street in Limehouse, The Bakers Arms on Lea Bridge Road, and a branch of All Bar One on Mackenzie Walk in the Docklands.