Walthamstow is enjoying a huge boost in popularity. However, many people are still unsure as to why. We thought we’d explain some of the many attractions of this North London neighbourhood! From the 20-minute commute into central and Walthamstow Marshes to God’s Own Junkyard and the Beer Mile, discover 17 great reasons to make E17 your new home.
Walthamstow residents have their say
Walthamstow residents have plenty to say about the nature reserves, friendly locals and wealth of cafes, bars and restaurants. They also praise the parks and swift transport connections into central London:
The community is great in Walthamstow. There are so many different cultures that come together, whether it’s in the markets or just crossing people on the street. The amenities are great – you have every shop you could need on your doorstep combined with gems like the Village and Lloyd Park. The transport links are fantastic – friends are often surprised how quickly they can get to Walthamstow from central London.
– Sam, Verified Resident, Walthamstow Gateway
The location is great! Just a 2 minute walk to Blackhorse Rd tube (and so convenient as the Victoria line is so quick). There are 2 small supermarkets nearby, and lots of lovely new coffee shops/breweries and restaurants in Walthamstow. The area is very ‘up and coming’ which is fab, there’s always something new to explore.
– Sophie, Verified Resident, Fizzy Walthamstow
I love Walthamstow as a community as well as a location – fantastic transport links (Victoria line is incredibly efficient). The area reflects a strong melting pot of cultures where everyone and anyone can fit in, as well as lovely restaurants, parks and beautiful nature reserves.
– Amber, Verified Resident, Blackhorse Mills
17 great reasons to live in E17
Now let’s take a more detailed look at some of Walthamstow’s many attractions. We’ve picked out 17 but there are many, many more!
1. Walthamstow Marshes
Walthamstow Marshes is a Site of Special Scientific Interest that forms part of the wider Lee Valley Park. The Marshes comprise just over 90 acres of fields, wetland, footpaths and waterways that attract locals seeking open green spaces, as well as flora and fauna rarely seen in the rest of Greater London.
2. Wild Card Brewery
Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast or just someone who likes a drink in authentic surroundings, Wild Card Brewery is the perfect local option. Founded in Walthamstow in 2012, the company has grown to include a tap room on site and the Barrel Store bar in nearby Ravenswood. It’s also part of the Walthamstow Beet Mile (see below!).
3. East of Eden Yoga
This popular yoga and pilates studio runs regular sessions, as well as classes and workshops for all levels. Ballet-inspired classes are also available, while treatment rooms are used by a variety of wellness practitioners. The on-site cafe at East of Eden provides healthy snacks and drinks, including an urn of complimentary tea for anyone in need of a simple cuppa!
4. Walthamstow Gateway
5. Walthamstow Beer Mile
The Walthamstow Beer Mile is also known as the Blackhorse Beer Mile, as all the pubs and tap houses are found off Blackhorse Lane. This craft beer adventure takes in five of Walthamstow’s boutique brewers. Sample the finest ales, IPAs and other exotics from Forest Road Brewing, Signature Brew, Wild Card Brewery, Exale Brewery Taproom and the Pillars Brewery.
6. God’s Own Junkyard
The global epicentre of neon lighting, God’s Own Junkyard is a Walthamstow institution. Run by Chris Bracey this shop and hire centre has thousands of neon signs and installations on display. Movie props, circus displays and architectural signage complete this glowing beacon of E17 culture.
7. Eat17
Another Walthamstow institution, Eat17 is a restaurant and food store seeking to supply the freshest and most delicious British foods available. The brand has expanded into new locations Hammersmith, Hackney and Bishop’s Stortford, and Eat17 chefs have adapted to lockdown conditons with a hugely popular takeout service. Artisanal baked good are also freshly stocked direct from the company’s Bishop Stortford bakery
8. Fizzy Walthamstow
9. CRATE St James Street
CRATE is a community of small businesses and charities occupying a similar complex to the popular BOXPARK sites in Shoreditch and Croydon. Visitors to CRATE St James Street will find everything from concept barbershops, Italian bakeries and a sports masseuse right through to to street food vendors, interior design boutiques and a tattoo parlour.
10. Walthamstow Village
Historic Walthamstow Village is a conservation area that centres around St Mary’s Church, which was founded in the 12th century. Opposite the church, the 15th century Hall House can be found, whil 16th and 18th century almshouses can also be seen in the area. Local restaurants and cafes make Orford Road a popular spot for locals, as well as a number of exellent pubs in the neighbourhood.
11. Blackhorse Mills
12. Walthamstow Wetlands
Just north of the Walthamstow Marshes, Walthamstow Wetlands is a 520-acre site that includes the series of Walthamstow Reservoirs. This large nature reserve is one of the largest urban wetland areas in Europe. It’s home to good quality fish stocks, making it a major draw for anglers as well as birdwatchers drawn by the rich diversity of its resident and visiting species.
13. William Morris Gallery
Celebrated designer William Morris lived in Water House in Walthamstow during his teenage years. This Grade II listed mansion is now a museum dedicated to his life and works. The grounds surrounding the house are now Lloyd Park. This public park is host to a regular food market and also offers tennis courts, artist studios, a skate park and basketball practice area.
14. Epping Forest
The ‘Lungs of London’, Epping Forest sits just north of Walthamstow and provides a glorious escape from city life. This ancient woodland offers 5,900 acres for visitors to explore, with much of its area designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. it is also a very popular spot for mountain bikers, with regular rides organised by local clubs on the weekends.
15. Walthamstow Market
Said to be the longest outdoor market in Europe, Walthamstow Market stretches for almost a mile down the High Street. It runs from Tuesday to Saturday and includes around 500 stalls. One of London’s few remaining pie and mash shops – L. Manze – can also be found on this street.
16. Transport connections
Another great reason to live in E17 is the easy commute into central London. London Overground services run from Walthamstow Central, Walthamstow Queen’s Road, St James Street and Wood Street. The Victoria line connects at Blackhorse Road and Walthamstow Central, while National Rail services also serve Walthamstow Central and the nearby Lea Bridge station.
17. That Christmas song
Yes, that’s right – beloved festive tune Stay Another Day was written by the Walthamstow boy band that took its name from the area. East 17 even named their debut album Walthamstow to rule out any confusion as to their provenance. Imagine spending Christmas knowing that you live in the borough where Stay was penned. Magical.
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