East London Gems to discover this Summer
From Castles and City Farms to community-centred Galleries, we have you covered for a well-rounded day out in East London.
- The Whitechapel Gallery
What? Opened in 1901 as one of the first publicly funded galleries for temporary exhibitions in London, The Whitechapel Gallery refers to itself as ‘the artists’ gallery for everyone’, with a continued focus on a commitment to art education for the local community.
Where? 77-82 Whitechapel High St, London E1 7QX
Did you know? Pioneering artists including Pablo Picasso, Frida Kahlo, and Hannah Höch all premiered at the Whitechapel Gallery.
Website: www.whitechapelgallery.org
2. The Tower of London
What? Home to the Crown Jewels, officious ravens (known as the guardians of the Tower), and the famous Yeoman Warders, this Royal Castle is also a World Heritage Site.
Where? London EC3N 4AB
Did you know? According to Historic Royal Palaces, The Tower of London has been home to a wide array of institutions including the Royal Mint, the Royal Armouries, and even a zoo.
Website: www.hrp.org.uk/tower-of-london
3. Dennis Severs’ House
What? A real local treasure and one of a kind experience. The house takes you back in time to tell the story of life in Spitalfields in the 18th and 19th century though the lives of the Huguenot family who had lived there since it was built in 1724.
Where? 18 Folgate Street London E1 6BX
Did you know? Dennis Severs came to Spitalfields in 1979 and bought the derelict house which had been saved by the Spitalfields Trust.
Website: www.dennissevershouse.co.uk
4. Bishopsgate Institute
What? A cultural institute housed in a beautiful grade II listed building, offering a cultural events programme including historic walking tours, dance socials, exhibitions and talks, as well as a housing a historic library and special collections archive which documents the experiences of everyday people and the people and organisations who have strived for social, political and cultural change.
Did you know? Their archived holds over 150,000 books, pamphlets, maps and photographs of London and 500,000 which can be accessed by members of the public.
Website: www.bishopsgate.org.uk
5. Spitalfields City Farm
What? A great free option for families, Spitalfields City Farm’s vision is ‘to create a space for all, that empowers people to make positive change to their lives, our community, and the planet.’ They also are home to adorably named animals including a dinky duo of donkeys named Gilbert and Sullivan.
Where? Buxton St, London E1 5AR
Did you know? According to them, Spitalfields City Farm is the nearest city farm to the City of London’s square mile.
Website: www.spitalfieldscityfarm.org
6. Museum of London Docklands
What? The London docks played an important role in shaping the city we know and love today. Enter with free admission and explore the fascinating history of the River Thames inside the original No. 1 Warehouse of the West India Docks.
Where? 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, No, Hertsmere Rd, London E14 4AL
Did you know? West India Docks were London’s first enclosed dock system when they opened in 1802.
Website: www.museumoflondon.org.uk/museum-london-docklands
Related Content
Where to Stay in East London
Discover the local hotels & rentals that come top of our to-stay list.
Stories From Spitalfields:
Artillery Lane
Home to London’s oldest Georgian shopfront and site of King Henry VIII's weapons practice ground – Artillery Lane offers an enchanting glimpse into 17th Century London.
East London's Dog Friendly Market - Fyfy & Toffy's guide
Find out why our favourite dog influencers love visiting the Market and where you'll find them hanging out.
Stories From Spitalfields:
Artillery Lane
Home to London’s oldest Georgian shopfront and site of King Henry VIII's weapons practice ground – Artillery Lane offers an enchanting glimpse into 17th Century London.
Where to Stay in East London
Discover the local hotels & rentals that come top of our to-stay list.
East London's Dog Friendly Market - Fyfy & Toffy's guide
Find out why our favourite dog influencers love visiting the Market and where you'll find them hanging out.
Where to Stay in East London
Discover the local hotels & rentals that come top of our to-stay list.
Stories From Spitalfields:
Artillery Lane
Home to London’s oldest Georgian shopfront and site of King Henry VIII's weapons practice ground – Artillery Lane offers an enchanting glimpse into 17th Century London.
East London's Dog Friendly Market - Fyfy & Toffy's guide
Find out why our favourite dog influencers love visiting the Market and where you'll find them hanging out.