Things to Do in East London (+ Shoreditch + Spitalfields) | What to See, Where to Stay, Shop, Eat

Are you looking for fun things to do in east London? Then you’re in the right place! Whatever you’re into, there’s so much happening in this hip part of London. 

Tourist attractions in east London range from the purpose built Olympic Park or the local Lido to sites that are part of east London history, including museums, a Tudor house from King Henry VIII’s reign, and the oldest grand music hall on earth. 

Whether you’re seeking things to do in Shoreditch, Hackney, Spitalfields, Hoxton, or Bethnal Green, this guide’s got the lot. Also covered is where to stay, the east end’s best places to eat, where to shop, how to get there, and more. 

By the end of this article, you’ll be wishing you had more time to spend in London’s east end! Let’s get started, so you can plan your time in this vibrant part of the city.  

Who is the East End best for?

• Foodies
• Hipsters
• Shoppers
• Sporty sorts
• Fans of true crime

Top 10 Things to Do in East London

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

London hosted the 2012 Olympic Games, and the Queen Elizabeth Park was purpose built for the occasion. Now, it’s not only about sporting pursuits, but is also an East End hub for culture and the arts. 

Attractions include the iconic Olympic pool, the Lea Valley Velopark, and the new East Bank cultural quarter, plus many other venues, parks, and trails. Some of the latter follow the River Lea, which runs through the park. There’s also a good range of restaurants, and the lofty, distinctive ArcelorMittal Orbit sculpture and slide. 

Museum of London Docklands

If you’re looking for rainy day or free things to do in the East End, look no further than the London Docklands Museum. Housed in a Georgian warehouse, the depository traces the history of the city and the Thames, including as a major trading port. 

The museum covers from Roman times to the modern day.

Young V&A

The 2024 Museum of the Year winner in Bethnal Green was formerly the V&A Museum of Childhood, but underwent an extensive renovation before reopening in 2023. 

As well as exhibits including costumes, dolls’ houses, games, and toys, this family-friendly museum in east London offers interactive activities to keep kids interested. 

Wilton’s Music Hall

The oldest grand music hall on the planet is positioned between Wapping and Whitechapel. It’s one of the most fascinating places to visit in east London if you’re into architecture or music. 

The hall hosts an ongoing programme of events which venture way beyond music. You can see everything from cabaret, dance, and magic shows to plays and puppetry here. As well as gazing at the original balcony and pillars of the shabby chic interior. Find out what’s on here.

Sutton House

If old buildings float your boat, pay a visit to Sutton House in Hackney. Operated by the National Trust, the Tudor structure is East London’s oldest house. It dates back to 1535, when it was built during Henry VIII’s reign. 

You can discover around five centuries of history at Sutton House by visiting the kitchen, the courtyard, original oak panelled rooms, and more. 

Victoria Park

Victoria Park – also known as Vicky Park or the People’s Park – is the oldest public park in London. Around nine million people visit per year, and it spans over 85 hectares. Join them and you can see listed buildings, spend time at the lakes or on the boating pond, and stop for coffee at the cafe. 

Don’t miss the Chinese pagoda, or the splash pool if you’re visiting with kids in summer. The Green Flag park also hosts various events, including festivals. 

London Fields Lido

This open-air pool operates all year round, and is heated in winter. It does get very busy in summer, particularly when the sun shines in East London. Don’t bring a picnic, they’re not permitted, but you can get food and drinks at the cafes on site. 

In addition to the 50-metre pool, there’s a sun terrace and a programme of pool-based fitness classes. 

Brick Lane street art

Brick Lane has long been known for its Indian restaurants, but in modern times, the area’s street art scene has come under the spotlight. You can see a range of graffiti and urban art on and around Brick Lane, including works by acclaimed artists such as Banksy. 

Organised tours are available. Beginning and ending at Spitalfields Market, you’ll see the work of more than 40 artists, while learning all about the history of the city’s east end.

Click here to book an East End street art walking tour 

East End foodie tour

As it’s such a foodie hotspot, many tours focus on the edible delights you can discover in London’s east end. Most last for around three hours plus, and include a number of stops and tastings. 

It’s a great way to get to grips with the area, as well as sampling street food and other goodies from all over the globe.  

Click here to book an east end foodie walking tour

Click here to book a Shoreditch street food tour

Jack the Ripper walking tour

Following in the footsteps of London’s most notorious serial killer is popular on the east side of London. Never caught, he was also known as the Leather Apron or the Whitechapel Murderer. 

It’s a walk through history in two ways, giving you an insight into Victorian London while sharing the criminal’s story. You can join standard or small group tours, the latter offering a more personal experience. Stops typically include Brick Lane, Spitalfields Market, and Petticoat Lane. 

Click here to book a Jack the Ripper walking tour

Click here to book a small group Jack the Ripper tour

Where to Stay in East London

Hotels

• £££ – Pan Pacific London | 5* | Restaurant, bar, gym, pool, & spa | Near Liverpool Street
• £££ – Batty Langleys | 5* | Bar, room service, & 24-hour reception | Near Shoreditch High Street

• ££ – CitizenM Shoreditch | 4* | Restaurant, bar, & 24-hour reception | Near Shoreditch High Street
• ££ – 196 Bishopsgate | 4* | Studios & apartments with kitchen | Near Liverpool Street
• ££ – One hundred Shoreditch | 5* | Bar, room service, & gym | On Shoreditch High Street
• ££ – The Hoxton Shoreditch | 4* | Restaurants, bar, & room service | Near Old Street tube

• £ – Point A London Liverpool Street | 3* | 24-hour reception | Between Liverpool Street & Shoreditch
• £ – Z Hotel Shoreditch | Bar & 24-hour reception | Near Old Street tube

Holiday rentals

• 1 bed for 2 – Funky framery studio | 1 bed & 1 bath | Near Old Street tube
• 1 bed for 4 – Shoreditch square home | 1 bed & 1 bath | Between Shoreditch & Hoxton
• 3 bed for 6 – Quirky warehouse loft | 3 beds & 1 bath | Between Shoreditch & Hoxton

Where to Eat in East London

Brick Lane

Brick Lane is known as curry central, due to the number of Indian eateries lining it and the surrounding streets. Strolling along while being accosted by the tempting smells is a sensual experience in itself. Pick a random restaurant that looks good to you, or ask for a local’s recommendation, such as from hotel staff.

It’s a lesser known fact that late night bagels on Brick Lane are also an institution in the east end of London. Perfect for soaking up the alcohol if you’ve had one too many while out partying in Shoreditch. The salt beef beigel from Beigel Bake is a classic. 

Spitalfields Market

You could argue for hours with any eastender about the best food at Spitalfields market. Simply wander around, taking it all in, before making your choice. Fierce competition ensures a high level of quality, whatever tickles your fancy. 

E Pellicci

This traditional cafe is an east end institution. Located on Bethnal Green Road, it serves up yummy full English breakfasts, plus authentic Italian fare. It’s worth visiting for the art deco style and vintage vibe as much as the food. 

Sune

This restaurant at the bottom of Broadway Market on Regent’s Canal is worth heading to Hackney for. The light-filled space has a pleasing neighbourhood feel, and serves modern sharing plates. There’s a great wine list, and the eatery is Michelin-recommended (so make sure you book a table). 

Cafe Cecilia

Another East End eatery that’s Michelin-recommended is Cafe Cecilia in Dalston. It’s more of a modern bistro than a cafe. Don’t skip dessert – the Guinness bread ice cream is both famous and fabulous. 

Mambow

Situated in Lower Clapton, this restaurant serves up some of the capital’s finest Malaysian food. Dishes are based on traditional flavours, but with a contemporary twist, and you can wash it all down with a glass of natural wine.

Smoking Goat

Bangkok’s late night canteen-style eateries inspire the menu at Smoking Goat in Shoreditch. The fish sauce chilli wings are legendary – and great value for money. 

Pidgin

Among mostly residential buildings on Wilton Way in Hackney is Pidgin. The neighbourhood restaurant serves a set four course menu, which changes weekly. Food tends to be modern European, with an Asian twist.  

Shankeys

It’s not every day you stumble across an Irish-Indian fusion eatery, but that’s what you get at Shankeys in Hackney. Colourful dishes served on vintage floral crockery can be washed down with poitín, a potent Irish spirit, or cocktails made with Kerrygold butter. 

Where to Shop in East London

Spitalfields Market

Spitalfields market has shops as well as places to eat, including some unique boutiques. They’re ideal for picking up one-off gifts, homeware items, clothes, and accessories, including handcrafted goods. 

Petticoat Lane Market

Local east London market dating from the 17th century, offering clothes, shoes, accessories, fabrics, and homeware. It’s open daily, except on Saturdays. 

Broadway Market

This revamped market dates back to Victorian times. As well as the stalls, there’s a good selection of shops lining the street. Local people love shopping here for fresh produce, books, vintage items, and more. 

Columbia Road Flower Market

Every Sunday between 8am and 3pm, you can shop at this famous London market for flowers, plants, shrubs, bulbs, and even fresh herbs. Bartering is de rigueur. Arrive early if you want to beat the crowds – or from 2pm if you want to bag a bargain. 

You can find plenty of shops and places to eat down the side streets close to the market.

Shoreditch High Street

Find plenty of Shoreditch shops to browse on Shoreditch High Street, one of the east end’s major shopping hubs. There are lots of lovely independent stores here, selling all sorts of covetable goods. 

How to Get to East London

Underground stations

• Shoreditch High Street – East London line
• Old Street – Northern line
• Hoxton – East London line
• Aldgate East – District and Hammersmith & City lines
• Liverpool Street – Central, Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines

Train stations

• Liverpool Street

East London FAQs

What areas are in the East End of London?

East London areas to explore include Bethnal Green, Dalston, Hackney, Hoxton, Shoreditch, Spitalfields, Stratford, Walthamstow, Whitechapel, and more. The east end is east of Shoreditch and Aldgate high streets, stretching as far as the River Lea. Most lies within the London borough of Tower Hamlets. 

What Will You Do in East London?

With a fun vibe, a neighbourhood feel, and great value for money places to shop, stay and eat, London’s east end makes the ideal London base. It’s also close to the City and Tower Bridge areas. 

Whether you choose to stay in east London or simply visit for the day, a good time – and a full belly – is always guaranteed!

Read next – London area guides

• Things to do in Covent Garden & Holborn
• Things to do in Tower Hill and Tower Bridge
• Things to do in Westminster (including Victoria/Charing Cross and Trafalgar Square)
• Things to do in Kensington (including South Kensington)
• Things to do in Greenwich
• Things to do in Mayfair
• Things to do in the City of London
• Things to do in Southwark & Bankside
• Things to do in Leicester Square and Soho
• Things to do in Bloomsbury and Fitzrovia
• Things to Do in Belgravia & Knightsbridge
• Things to do in Notting Hill
  • Ultimate Notting Hill self-guided walking tour
• Things to do in Marylebone
• Things to do in Paddington
• Things to do in Chelsea
• Things to do in Battersea
• Things to do in Piccadilly Circus