There is something about East-end living that has a unique appeal, whether you're in Shoreditch or Walthamstow. The E16 postcode of Custom House is no different, with this East London neighbourhood offering a blend of old and new.
The "new" comes in the form of shiny apartments and travel links that will include a stop on the Crossrail (Elizabeth Line). While the "old" provides period properties and the current station, which was built in 1855.
In our latest London guide, we're exploring what it's like to live in Custom House. So, read on and discover the history of E16, as well as its rental prices and the fun things to do.
On a map
Custom House is an area of the Silvertown region and falls under the London Borough of Newham in East London. Neighbouring areas include Canary Wharf, Poplar, West Ham Canning Town and Beckton.
Custom House history
As trade expanded with the British Empire, the royal docks were constructed to meet demand. That demand bought with it serious expansion, with Newham rapidly increasing its residents – most of whom were dockworkers, warehouseman and manufacturing.
However, the population decreased drastically after the area was devastated during World War II. Since then, there have been significant rebuilds, and Custom House has become a prominent dockside neighbourhood with plenty of regeneration.
Who lives there?
Custom House acts as a microcosm of London, featuring a diverse range of residents from all over the world. Many young professionals choose Custom House over Canary Wharf, thanks to its more affordable rental prices. Just under 70% of people in Custom House rent their home.
Renting in Custom House
There are plenty of new builds along the docks, offering shiny high-rises with riverside views. Capital East is known as one of the best developments in the area and features a gym and on-site concierge.
Expect to pay around £1,300 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in Custom House and £1,600 per month for a two-bedroom property. Three-bed-and-up homes go on the market from £2,000 per month.
Custom House travel
Custom House and the surrounding areas offer excellent connection via the DLR, which goes into Canary Wharf and The City. Nearby Canning Town is on the London underground (Jubilee Line) and has direct links to the West End.
London City Airport is just 1.5 miles away from Custom House, meaning you're never far from a last-minute weekend away or longer holiday to far-flung destinations.
Residents in Custom House can look forward to even better transport connections in the coming years with a stop of the much-anticipated Elizabeth Line. Custom House is located in travel Zone 3.
Custom House eateries
The Custom House Pub
If you're looking for a local boozer, then look no further than the Custom House Pub. This watering hole is so much than a place to grab great wines and beers, though. There's tasty pub grub, from mini bites to delectable burgers and options from the grill.
Yi-Ban
Sample authentic Chinese food at Yi-Ban, a popular restaurant in the heart of Custom House. You can even watch planes take off at nearby London City Airport as you tuck into some top-notch dim sum.
Eeshi's Kitchen
Head to Eeshi's Kitchen and enjoy a waterfront location, where you can take in local views while sampling the all-day bistro. Grab a coffee and snack or something more substantial, such as lamb chops or pan-fried sea bass.
Things to do in Custom House
Thames Barrier Park
Opened in 2000, Thames Barrier Park overlooks the Thames Barrier and provides a tranquil experience. The seven-hectare space offers somewhere to go for a stroll and has a green wave garden with lines of undulating hedges scattered among perennial plantings.
ExCel Centre
Visit the London ExCel Centre, where some of the world's leading events take place. There's also a variety of restaurant and bars at the centre, just in case you feel like grabbing a bite to eat or something to drink after visiting one of the events.
Royal Victoria Dock
The largest of three docks, the Royal Victoria Dock is a prime part of the redeveloped Docklands area. During the summer months, the western end features a beach for sunbathing and swimming. There are also bars and a wakeboarding park.
Moving to Custom House
With plenty of regeneration and riverside settings, Custom House is proving to be a popular area with anyone looking for more bang for their buck. Affordable rents, a variety of shops, restaurants and pubs and open spaces make Custom House a strong contender when it comes to dockside living in East London.
