Things to Do in East London
May 7th, 2025
East London isn’t just a corner of the capital—it’s where old meets new, grit meets glamour, and creativity spills into every street. Whether you’re hunting down edgy street art, wandering historic docks, or sipping cocktails in rooftop bars, this part of the city is brimming with personality. So, if you’re after a proper adventure, here’s your ultimate guide to fun things to do in London’s trendiest patch.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Sunday mornings on Columbia Road are a riot of colour and chatter. This iconic flower market is packed with stalls selling everything from armfuls of sunflowers to delicate succulents. The air’s thick with the scent of roses and eucalyptus, and the local shops and cafés buzz with life. Even if you’re not buying, it’s worth it just for the atmosphere.
Victoria Park
Simply "Vicky Park" to locals, this vast park is an East End gem. Perfect for a picnic, a stroll, or a paddleboat across the lake, it has just the right mix of nature and metropolis. There's also a fantastic playground for kids, and in the summer, the park is a festival destination with music, food, and a healthy dose of positive energy.
Brick Lane
A stroll along Brick Lane is an assault on the senses. Famous for its curry houses, retro shops, graffiti, and hectic markets, it's the throbbingbeat of East London's cultural scene. Keep an eye out for Banksy paintings on the walls, dig through second-hand shops for treasures, and don't go without purchasing a salt beef bagel from legendary Beigel Bake.
Canary Wharf
You might know Canary Wharf as a sleek financial district, but it’s also packed with hidden gems. Think rooftop gardens, floating bars, and public art dotted between the glass towers. Ice skating in winter, outdoor movie screenings in summer—there’s always something going on. It’s one of those things to do in Canary Wharf that surprises even longtime Londoners.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Built specifically for the 2012 Games, the Olympic Park has developed into a top day out destination. Zoom along the Arcelor Mittal Orbit slide (the longest tunnel slide in the world, no less), splash about in the fountains, or simply stroll through the landscaped gardens. It's a top destination for families and active sorts alike, with cycle routes, playgrounds, and even a climbing wall. There are loads of cafes and riverside places to stop for a coffee or snack between things too.
Broadway Market
Foodies, rejoice. Broadway Market is a cult favorite in East London, andit's got everything from gourmet cheese toasties to Ethiopian coffee. Pick up some grub, sit and observe the people along the canal, and bask in the indie vibe. Catch the surrounding vintage shops and book stalls that fill out the market's bohemian vibe.
Hackney Wick
Once an industrial wasteland, Hackney Wick has transformed into one of the city’s coolest hangouts. Think canalside breweries, warehouse art studios, and funky pizza joints. Check out the street art, grab a drink at Crate Brewery, or dance the night away in one of the area’s buzzing clubs. The creative energy here is infectious, making every visit feel like you’re part of something special.
Museum of London Docklands
Hidden away near Canary Wharf, this museum is a gem. Housed in a 200-year-old warehouse, it traces the history of London's river, port, and people, from pirates to modern dockworkers. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, and the galleries are so atmospheric, history comesalive. Best of all this, it's free to get in, so you can dawdle at your leisurewithout breaking the bank.
Greenwich
Hop over to Greenwich for a proper dose of maritime history. Stand on the Prime Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory, explore the Cutty Sark, or just chill in Greenwich Park with its sweeping views over the Thames. It’s one of those timeless things to do in Greenwich that never gets old, no matter how many times you visit.
Rooftop at Netil 360
East London knows how to do rooftops—and Netil 360 is a winner. Situated above Netil House in London Fields, it boasts skyline views, chilled beers, and a relaxed atmosphere. Invite some mates, grab a cocktail, and watch the sun set over the city. At the weekends, DJs, pop-ups, and a lively atmosphere await.
Spitalfields Market
One of London's oldest markets, Spitalfields combines the old and the new with stylish ease. Designer fashion, handmade jewellery, eccentricgifts, and loads of street food are on offer. Explore the market, visitnearby boutiques, and sample the local art scene. The surrounding historic buildings lend the entire area a unique East End feel.
Wilton’s Music Hall
Travel through time to the world's oldest surviving music hall. Wilton's is a atmospheric place where you can catch live music, theatre, or comedy in breathtakingly faded decor. It's tiny, old, and positivelymagical—don't skip it. Pop into the antiquated bar for a tipple and soak up the old-world atmosphere prior to the show.
Regent’s Canal
For as slice of peace, take a stroll along Regent's Canal from Victoria Park to Hackney and beyond. Keep an eye out for the brightly coloured narrowboats chugging along the canal, stop off at a waterside café, or just take in the serenity and tranquility away from the noise of the main roads. It is also very cycle-friendly, with picturesque routes which wind and turn through some of East London's prettiest hidden gems.
Genesis Cinema
This Mile End independent cinema is a neighbourhood treasure, featuring plump sofas, craft ales, and a first-class listings of independent films, mainstream movies, and cult classics. It's where it'sat to have a laid-back night on the town, and the admission price won't make an eye out of you. There's even a cafe-bar on the premises if you want to hang around for some post-movie chat.
God’s Own Junkyard
Hidden away in Walthamstow, this neon wonderland is a kaleidoscope of colour, packed with vintage signs, movie props, and luminous artworks. It’s a photographer’s dream and the attached café-bar is perfect for coffee or cocktails under a glow of neon lights.
Victoria Park Boating Lake
Paddle across the lake on a pedal boat and enjoy one of the city's most lovely parks from a different perspective. It's a charming, old-fashionedexperience that's equally fun for couples and families. Afterward, stroll across the rose garden or grab a snack from one of the nearby cafés.
E5 Bakehouse
Hidden beneath railway bridges by London Fields, E5 Bakehouse is a cult hit sourdough bakery. Call in for a crumbly croissant or join one of their bread workshops if you get the dough-handling urge. Their commitment to organic and green everything makes each mouthfultaste all the more guilt-free.
All Points East Festival
One of London's finest summer music festivals, All Points East occupiesVictoria Park with an incredible line-up of global acts, street food, and art installations. Indie, electronic, or hip hop - whatever your taste in music, it's an event not to be missed for lovers of live tunes. Free community events also take place on weekdays as part of the festival, providing even more incentive to get involved.
York Hall
A mythic East End boxing hall that still hosts live fights, York Hall also boasts an atmospheric Turkish bath in its subterranean basement. If you fancy sitting back and watching some punches being swung or just relaxing in the steam, it's a bit of local culture. The building's antiquated architecture adds an extra punch of personality to every visit.
Rough Trade East
Vinyl aficionados and music enthusiasts should visit Rough Trade East,located close to Brick Lane, one of London's best-known record stores. Browse the new releases, scour the shelves of indie treasures, or attendan intimate in-store performance. There is also a café within, ideal for savoring your fresh discoveries.
Victoria and Albert Museum of Childhood
In Bethnal Green, this quirky museum is filled with toys, games, and childhood treasures from across the centuries. It’s fascinating for all ages and a great spot to spark some nostalgia.
From historic docks to buzzing nightlife, East London is packed with surprises. Whether you’re hunting down vintage treasures, sipping cocktails with a view, or diving into the area’s rich history, you’ll find no end of fun things to do in London’s most exciting neighbourhood. So, grab your walking shoes and get ready—East London’s waiting.
