Have a Riot This Autumn
Welcome to our second mini guide to London. The first revealed the delights of a day out in Central London. In this post we’re focusing on the wonders of East London.
The east was traditionally London’s industrial zone, where tanneries and factories pumped smog into the sky. The area has been transformed of course and these days you’re more likely to find startups than scrapyards.
Read on to discover an itinerary for a great day out in East London. There are two options for each part of the day, to cater for all tastes.
First Thing
Lively
A morning swim in London Fields Lido
Plunge into 50 metres of watery heaven. The lido, which had a major facelift in 2017, is open all year round and heated to keep the most severe chills at bay. Busy in the warmer months but quieter as the seasons turn. Don’t miss the hole-in-the-wall cafe for croissants and coffee.
Chilled
A stroll along Regent’s Canal
Start the day a leisurely way, ambling from the Olympic Park to Broadway Market. Or the other way round. Away from the traffic and admiring canal boats. Dip into Victoria Park to really stretch out — there’s a cafe and a fantastic playground. Parents have been known to get carried away on the slide.
Brunch
Healthy
Ottolenghi Spitalfields
This relaxed eating house is Yotam’s latest. The calm atmosphere is complemented by the delicious dishes. Favourites of ours include the Shakshuka (North African-style eggs), and the cardamom, date and strawberry muesli. Do book ahead and bear in mind it’s closed 12-18 September 2018 for refurbishment.
Decadent
Hash E8
Our go-to spot for a big feed after a night on the tiles. Does get packed but the service is quick and the food…oh boy. How about French toast with peanut butter, bacon and syrup? Or white chocolate pancakes with caramelised bananas? “So good they nearly moved me to tears”, as one Google reviewer put it.
Early Afternoon
Lively
Up and down ArcelorMittal Orbit
Experience the most bonkers piece of architecture created for the 2012 Olympics. Love it or hate it there’s no doubt the Orbit is striking. Head up the nearly 400ft-tall tower to gawp at London from the two viewing platforms. Then slide all the way down, if you dare.
Chilled
Museum of London Docklands
If you don’t fancy going up, you can go back…in time, and immerse yourself in the story of the Thames — its settlers, traders, heroes and rogues. This impressive museum, based in a 200-year-old warehouse, traces the area’s history through a brilliant collection of archive materials, including captured Nazi footage.
Late Afternoon
Lively
A pint at The Archers
The Archers used to be a grimy spot best known for drunken karaoke sessions. Now it’s had a makeover that stops just short of Shoreditch wankery. There’s a decent beer selection, great snacks, and the prices are reasonable. The perfect place to unwind with a pint and reflect on your day out in East London.
Chilled
A film at The Castle Cinema
There’s something decadent about an afternoon trip to the cinema. The Castle has been many things over the years including a bingo hall and a shoe factory, but it’s been restored to its former glory. Enjoy a drink at the art deco bar, then settle into your velvet armchair to enjoy the film.
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