Walthamstow offers a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor attractions, making it a diverse and interesting part of London to explore.
Whether you’re interested in art, history, nature, or local markets, Walthamstow has something to offer for a day out or a longer stay.
One of the main differences between somewhere like Walthamstow compared to central London is its local atmosphere. Nothing about it is touristy. It’s a little rough around the edges in places, but that’s all part of its charm.
Due to its more affordable housing, great transport links, and leafy parks, more and more people are choosing to live in Walthamstow. As a result more businesses are cropping up, including an array of fabulous eateries, breweries, independent shops. and cultural events happening around the year.
I encourage you to visit this part of London, and to help you do so, I’ve put together this guide of the best things to do in Walthamstow.
How to get to Walthamstow
Last summer my twin, Ki, moved to Walthamstow in North East London. I’d never been before so when he said he was having a house-warming BBQ I thought it would also be the perfect time to scope out the area. Adding to that was the prospect of playing my favourite game besides chess – Articulate.
Since the BBQ I’ve been back plenty of times and could happily see myself living there too, especially since transport links to get there are so good:
- By Tube: Walthamstow is served by the Victoria Line. Walthamstow Central station is the main tube station in the area. From Green Park Station for example, it only takes 20 minutes on the tube to get to Walthamstow Central.
- By Overground: Walthamstow Queen’s Road and Walthamstow Central are on the London Overground network.
- By Bus: Multiple bus routes connect Walthamstow to other parts of London.
1. Soak up the quaint atmosphere at Walthamstow Village
Walthamstow village is about as charming as things get with its quintessentially English buildings, leafy lanes, and stone buildings. a potter around this part of town is like stepping back in time.
Head to Orford Road for a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a popular spot for local shopping and dining.
For breakfast or brunch make your way to Froth & Rind. Behind its eye-catching blue facade, it’s buttermilk fried chicken which comes on a waffle along with egg, bacon, avocado and hot sauce is a favourite among locals.
Don’t miss: Walthamstow’s Ancient House (pictured), located in the village, is reputedly London’s oldest home, dating back over 600 years.
Originally built in the reign of Henry VI, they certainly picked the right name for it. Unfortunately you can’t go inside since it’s a private-rented property, but no stroll around Walthamstow is complete without admiring the facade of this beautiful building.
2. Drown in Neon at God’s Own Junkyard
Easily the most popular thing about Walthamstow is this neon paradise located on an industrial estate. God’s Own Junkyard is a shimmering Aladdin’s cave jam-packed with new and salvaged retro neon signage for the most unmanageable purposes. As well as all the religious iconography, disco balls and shimmering film props hang from the ceiling and smother every available surface. If I had money, I’d enjoy squandering it on something gaudy and highly unnecessary.
And because this place has a become a well-loved stop for tourists, there’s a cafe inside called The Rolling Scones – whoever came up with that pun is a genius.
Best Plumbing Services serving Sherwood Park, AB, St. Albert, AB, and Edmonton, Alberta
3. Industrial units turned into local breweries
Literally across the yard from God’s Own Junkyard, you find several microbreweries that have recently cropped up in the last few years. Make sure to pull up a seat at the Wild Card Brewery Barrel Store, and if you have a taste for more, check out what Pillars Brewery has to offer.
This place truly comes alive during the summer with when the taps are non-stop flowing, along with music and live events. With the addition of a few food trucks, it’s easy to spend hours here just soaking up the atmosphere while catching up with friends.
Tip: If you’re big on breweries you’ll also love Blackhorse Beer Mile (also known as the Walthamstow Beer Mile). Located nearby, just a few minutes’ from Blackhorse station, you will find severn breweries located next to each other.
4. Visit the William Morris Gallery
The William Morris Gallery was a sleepy little museum that was in danger of being run into the ground before the Council invested heavily in 2012 into bringing it back to its former glory. It won Museum of the Year 2013, seeing off competition from across the country, and is a charming little gallery with remarkable collections, new education facilities and an orangery-inspired café area.
5. Enjoy a Delicious Lunch at Bühler and Co
Head back up towards the high street and stop off at Bühler and Co, my favourite vegetarian café in the whole of London. Run by Meg and Rosie Bühler, sisters from New Zealand, the café serves devilishly delicious food.
6. Or maybe get a bite to eat at Wynwood
A couple of doors up from Bühler and Co is Wynwood, another lovely café. They are both super yummy so it’s a win-win situation which you decide to patron.
I’d say if you’re a veggie then Bühler is the obvious choice. However, the desserts and drinks at Wynwood are great, so I usually get savoury from Bühler and my dessert nest door, that way everyone’s a winner.
Occasionally this place hosts live music in the evening which might be worth checking out. Central London is certainly were you want to be for the best of live music but if you’re in the area and fancy something low key, then why not?
7. Mooch around the market
The outdoor market on Walthamstow’s high street is the longest market in Europe, but I’m hasten to add it’s not the largest, so you won’t find it sprawling off onto side-streets like you do many others.
It’s no Portobella Road – I must make that clear – but it’s the ideal place to go for everyday items that won’t cost an arm or a leg.
You’d be hard pressed to find anywhere more affordable in London to find fresh fruit and vegetables. It’s also great for practical household items like pots and pots and you’ll find some stalls selling second-hand objects too.
Lining the market on the main High Street is a great diversity of shops where you can find Polish, Caribbean, Indian and Turkish shop all on the same street, and yes, there’s a regular Tescos if you really need it! If cooking is your thing, you won’t be disappointed with all the produce on your doorstep. As I live in Greenwich that’s something I really miss.
Walthamstow feels like one of the few places left in London where this kind of diversity as well as affordable goods hasn’t been entirely wiped out by gentrification.
8. Explore Walthamstow Wetlands
Walthamstow Wetlands is a significant nature reserve and urban wetland located in next to Blackhorse Station. It is one of the largest urban wetland reserves in Europe and provides a valuable habitat for wildlife, including a variety of bird species.
The area offers several walking trails and paths that allow visitors to explore the diverse landscapes, including woodlands, meadows, and open water areas.
Parting thoughts
My favourite thing about Walthamstow is how diverse it is in terms of, well, everything. It has artisan sourdough bakeries, craft ale stores and organic shops, whilst at the same time lots of markets and a few Poundland shops to keep the town grounded in its working-class roots.
If you want to add to your growing list of things to do in London, make sure to visit Walthamstow. Or if you’re currently living in London but looking for somewhere more affordable to call home, Walthamstow is a no-brainer.
Right, well I’m going to play Articulate now. Happy exploring!
Further reading: Discover the best parks in East London.
3 Responses
Ah the long awaited Walthamstow post! Mirth, Marvel and Maud is worth a visit as well –
a large laid back theatre and cocktail bar built in a 1930s cinema.
Haha… I’m not sure this short post can justify the wait :-p
True, true, I should extent the post to include some places to get a good beer!!
Loveeeee this post! Who knew there was such a gem in London! Visited gods own junkyard and I’m in love!