Walthamstow

Welcome to Walthamstow

When it comes to cool East London neighbourhoods, reigning hot spots Dalston and Hackney have in recent years been usurped by the quiet charms of E17. First and foremost a locals neighbourhood, Walthamstow has an up and coming dining scene, popular residential areas, and even it's own Beer Mile. There's plenty of things to do in Walthamstow when you're not eating and drinking, too - the area is home to galleries, community spaces, and plenty of nature.

Walthamstow is also conveniently located with close transport links to central London. It's just 20 minutes into Oxford Circus on the Victoria Line, or Liverpool Street on the Weaver Line. It's therefore become a popular area with young professionals seeking a more low key London living experience. But it's also great for an unusual London day trip if you fancy venturing outside the tourist areas.

I've been a Walthamstow local for 9 years now, and have been meaning to put a guide to the area together for pretty much just as long. In this time I'd like to think I've gotten to know the area pretty well - although hot new restaurants, bars, and events spaces are popping up thick and fast! If you're planning a visit to Walthamstow, or perhaps thinking of moving to the area, hopefully this Walthamstow area guide will help showcase a small part of why I love to call this neighbourhood home.

Walthamstow Essentials

Walthamstow Cafes

Walthamstow Restaurants

Blackhorse Beer Mile

Walthamstow 101

Where is Walthamstow: Walthamstow is a neighbourhood in North East London, located in the Borough of Waltham Forest. It's made up of a number of smaller areas, including Blackhorse Road, Walthamstow Village, Wood Street. It's bordered by Leyton, Tottenham Hale, and Highams Park.

How long to spend in Walthamstow: Whilst you won't be able to see everything, Walthamstow makes for an excellent London day or half day trip. See a sight or two, grab lunch, or explore in the evening to discover the popular drinking and entertainment scene. A lot of activities are Friday-Sunday, so I'd recommend a weekend visit to get the most out of your time.

How to get to Walthamstow: Walthamstow is served by a number of tube and overground lines, making it easy to get to from other parts of London. The Victoria Line runs into Blackhorse Road and Walthamstow Central. The Overground from Liverpool Street stops in at Wood Street, Walthamstow Central, and St James Street.

Getting around Walthamstow: Walthamstow is a large neighbourhood, so I'd generally recommend picking an area you want to explore, and discovering it on foot. However, if you want to see it all, there's plenty of local buses - though they tend to spend a lot of time stuck in traffic!

Safety in Walthamstow: I've never had any issues with safety since I've lived in the area, but never say never. Like the rest of London, it's best to be vigilant. Phones being stolen by thieves on bikes happens across the city, so avoid having your phone out, particularly near active bike lanes.

Top 5 Things To Do in Walthamstow: Ogle the neon lights at God's Own Junkyard, catch an event at Big Penny, Soho Theatre, or the Trades Hall, drink your way through the local breweries of Blackhorse Beer Mile, Dine in a denim factory or disused tube carriage, and discover the green spaces of the Marshes and Wetlands.