Described as ‘trendy’, ‘a creative hub’ and ‘cool’, Bethnal Green is a fascinating part of East London. Its architectural history has created a diverse range of available property, from ex-local authority flats, to rows of Georgian houses and striking new build loft conversions; no matter what your style, you will find a home here to meet your needs. Many houses were built in Bethnal Green during the Industrial Revolution for those working in the furniture and silk-weaving trades, and it is also home to Britain’s first council housing development – The Boundary Estate. One of the main draws of the area is its proximity to the City; this was also the reason the area became popular with the Tudor gentry of the 1500s, as they wanted to be close to the centre of London but still have land for hunting.
Fulfilling your lifestyle aspirations…
Although the area has seen an influx of fine dining restaurants and boutique hotels in recent years, it still manages to retain its ‘rough ‘n’ ready East End flavour’, as described by Time Out. Sunday mornings are all about Columbia Road Flower Market, where the bursts of colour and aromas make it a full-on sensory experience. Alternatively, you can grab brunch in a local cafe or take a stroll around one of the many independent galleries.
Animal lovers should definitely drop by Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium for coffee and cake, where cats slink around looking for available laps. Bethnal Green is also home to London’s largest independent music store, Vintage Guitar Boutique, which is home to iconic and timeless guitars, as well as being an official dealer for leading brands such as Fender and Gibson USA.
If you’re looking for somewhere to go for a jog, you’ll find Victoria Park the ideal location. Covering over 86 hectares, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the number of available running routes. It is also home to several clubs and sporting facilities, including the Victoria Park Harriers and Tower Hamlets Athletics Club.
Getting around
You won’t be surprised to learn that, due to its location, the area is very well connected. Bethnal Green is in Zone 2 and it takes around 15 minutes to arrive at Oxford Circus on the Central Line. There is an Overground train service to Liverpool Street and you can also access the following bus services: 8, 106, 254, 309, 388, D3, D6, N8 and N253.
Families will love
One of the highlights of the area for young and old is the V&A Museum of Childhood, which boasts the UK’s national collection of childhood objects. From clothing and toys to furniture and games, you can reminisce as you find your personal favourites. They also host a number of activities for children to get involved in throughout the year. Even with the area’s industrial past, there are still pockets of countryside to be found. One of these is home to Stepney City Farm, which operates as a working farm, giving children a hands-on experience of working with animals and growing food.
There are a number of good schools in the area, including Bonner Primary School and Virginia Primary School and local secondary schools include Beatrice Tate School and Morpeth School. To discover properties within the catchment area, contact Franklyn James, sales and letting agents Bethnal Green.
