Visiting Mile End in East London? Read this First

First recorded in the 12th century, Mile End is an East London district located between Stratford and Liverpool Street, on the London to Colchester road. It began as an open field and later home to migrants and immigrants, but it’s today among the most desirable neighborhoods in East London.

Like most districts in the region, Mile End is also experiencing gentrification. Still, it retains its old school charm thanks to the 18th-century terraces, old Georgian homes, postwar tower blocks, and several other building blocks that nod to the district’s past.

Read on to acquaint yourself with the district’s historical journey and some fun things to do while visiting.

History of Mile End, East London

Mile End began as Mile End Road, an ancient route connecting London to the East. It was surrounded by open fields with no growth in sight. The area’s real growth began in the 16th century when working and low-class settlements for migrants and immigrants began cropping up along the route. These settlements eventually formed Mile End Old Town, a hamlet later incorporated into the Metropolitan Borough of Stepney.

By the 18th century, the area had evolved into a residential area with its own brewery and several other notable establishments. The establishment of Mile End Hospital spurred its growth. This facility began as an infirmary for the local population but slowly evolved into one of the most coveted medical facilities in the area to date.

Today, Mile End is no longer a residential area but a rapidly growing district in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets with something for everyone. Note, Wat Tyler and his 10,000 followers assembled in Mile End during the famous peasant revolt of 1381 due to the district’s direct access to London.

Must-See Places in Mile End, East London

Although Mile End has an abundance of exciting places to check out, here are five must-visit spots in the area:

  • Mile End Park: a 32ha park with an art pavilion consisting of a lake and well-manicured gardens, an ecology pavilion, a living bridge known as the Green bridge, and plenty of wildlife
  • Mile End Climbing Wall: a massive indoor climbing center featuring a 16,000sqft indoor climbing wall
  • The Palm Tree: an old watering hole with ancient Victorian architecture and traditional décor
  • Roman road market: a 150-year old traditional street market with everything, from vintage memorabilia, food stalls, homeware to fashion stores.

Getting to Mile End, East London

Mile End is conveniently located east of Bethnal and south of Hackney. It is connected to the London Underground and only takes twenty minutes from London via the Mile End Underground Station. London Bus Routes 25, 309, D6, and D7 have stops at Mile End, Burdett, and Grove roads. Besides the City of London, these buses link directly to areas like Canary Wharf, King’s Cross, and Stratford, meaning traveling to and fro via public commute shouldn’t be a hassle.