East London’s image has undergone a pretty comprehensive regeneration over the past couple of decades. Where once it was synonymous with Del Boys, dodgy deals and dodgier meals, the reputation is now very different indeed. Artisanal, creative, forward thinking and energetic are just some of the many adjectives you could throw at this side of London and see them stick. It’s also one of the more affordable places to buy a house if you’re looking to settle down or simply invest in the Capital, and as such, both the wealthy and the wayfaring are trying out the area for size. If you’re interested but don’t know where to start, then we’ve teamed up with Keatons Stratford Estate Agents to give you these; our 5 IDEAL places to buy property in East London.
SHOREDITCH
Shoreditch needs little in the way of introduction. Before you can even say ‘Shhhh’ you’ll have heard an exhaustive, exhausting roll call of cliche and misconception. Of folk so tattooed they’re more ink than blood. Of nitro brewed, supercharged, butter infused coffee at supercharged prices which you can only enjoy in a shed or something. Of culturally appropriated food served off a penny farthing. Anyway, it’s all bollocks. The only sweeping statement we can make about this magical corner of London town is that it’s still a bloody exciting place to be, even if it’s no longer a secret.
The food scene is unequivocally London’s best, with Lyle’s, Brat, Clove Club and Smoking Goat all slinging their food not far from the high street. There’s also amazing covered markets in the form of Dinerama and Brick Lane within, and Spitalfields right on the doorstep. Then, there’s the quirky nightlife, with hipster hotspots XOYO and Nightjar just two of a plethora of speakeasies and basement boozers. You’ll never want to leave. Fortunately, if you’re looking for property, you won’t have to leave. It’s going to cost you though, with house prices on average standing at around £710,000. Instead, you might be better off going slightly further east for better value for money….
THE ISLE OF DOGS
With the River Thames to your East, your West and your South, the Isle of Dogs represents a peninsula right in the heart of London, and as a result, has the feel of being secluded whilst still very much connected to the action. You’re wondering about the name, right? Us too. Sadly, the origins of its quirky title are largely unknown.
What is known, however, is that the appeal of waterside property so close to Canary Wharf makes the Isle of Dogs a location with loads of potential for buyers. Should you move here, you’ll be connected by the dedicated DLR line and be a stone’s throw from the o2 arena (formerly the Millennium Dome) in Greenwich. Perfect for those who like to do business in the day and see some of the biggest rock stars on the planet at night, we think. If you’d prefer something a little more sedate, the Isle’s Mudchute Park and Farm is a superb day out for children and adults alike.
BOW
Still very much in the hip and trendy part of town, and just a short, straight bike ride from the financial district, Bow has been steadily growing in clout for years now. A certain amount of ‘gentrification’ has occurred accordingly, but that hasn’t knocked the unrivalled community spirit and inclusive vibes of the area. Part of Bow’s appeal is of course its proximity to the splendid, effervescent Victoria Park and Regent’s Canal, an open space of fun, frivolity and fitness which any London borough would be proud to call their own. Look out for regular events and internationally renowned festivals, such as the annual, critically acclaimed All Points East and August’s Art’s House . Superbly connected to the city by both London Underground’s District Line and the Docklands Light Railway, property in Bow represents a seriously wise investment opportunity.
STRATFORD
Home to the Olympic Park and Stadium, as well as the massive Westfield shopping complex, Stratford is an area currently benefiting massively from regeneration projects harking back to the 2012 Olympics and initiatives surrounding it. Seven years on, it’s going from strength to strength.
Although it’s one of London’s most densely populated areas, it still boasts green spaces to the tune of 10% of its area, making it a surprisingly uncluttered place to live. Stratford also has great transport links to the City of London, meaning increasing numbers of professionals are setting up shop here. And if you’re a fan of West Ham football club, the stadium is now their home. Back of the net!
STOKE NEWINGTON
Referred to by residents as ‘Stokey’, this is as close as you’ll get to village living in East London while still feeling, well, close to the city. It’s an area full of charisma and charm, with independent shops dominating the High Street and busy, buzzy Church street areas. That doesn’t mean there aren’t areas of peace and quiet in this hipster heartland; Clissold Park is one attractive green space, complete with butterfly park and a herd of deer. And you don’t get that everywhere in London, now do you? An overground train from nearby Dalston Junction into the city will only take you 6 minutes, but the vibe is world’s apart. Perfect for new families looking to straddle the comforts of the quaint with the convenience of the Capital, this one.