Sitting just eight miles from central London, East Ham offers quintessential East-End vibes and is a neighbourhood built around community. It's also one of London's most affordable areas, making it a solid choice if you're looking for a good deal.
There's a reason that East Ham has become a popular destination for those moving from Shoreditch, Dalston and Hackney: a charming civic quarter, busy town centre and plenty of Victorian and Edwardian homes offer plenty of appeal in the E6 postcode.
But what's it really like living in East Ham? In this London guide, we're bringing you everything there is to know about this understated London neighbourhood, from the homes to the things to do and see.
On a map
East Ham is located in East London and falls under the London Borough of Newham. It's identified as a Major Centre in the London Plan and neighbours West Ham, Plaistow and Forest Gate. It falls under the E6 postcode.
History of East Ham
The rivers of Lea, Thames and Roding all played their part in the origins of East Ham's name. First recorded as Hamme and then later as Hame, the name means "a dry area of land between rivers or marshland", which is a reference to its location as a settlement within the boundaries of the aforementioned rivers.
In 1859, the opening of East Ham railway station brought urbanisation to the area, which further increased with the District Railway in 1908. As its popularity grew, East Ham obtained county status in 1915 and remained that way until it joined the Borough of Newham in 1965.
Today, the town centre is the primary hub of the neighbourhood, and it features the clock tower, which was built in 1903 and forms part of the town hall. It's a Grade II Listed Building.
Who lives there?
East Ham has a significant population of 76,000 and is a vibrant, multicultural area with a strong sense of community. The median age is just 32, and around 60% of people living in the E6 postcode rent their homes.
Renting in East Ham
Much of East Ham's appeal comes from its period charm. Expect to find plenty of homes from the Edwardian and Victorian eras, some of which have been converted into flats; others that remain as terrace houses.
If you're renting in East Ham, expect to pay around £1,100 for a one-bedroom home, £1,350 per month for a two-bedroom apartment, and £1,600 per month for a three-bedroom property.
East Ham travel
East Ham tube station is serviced by the District and Hammersmith & City lines, offering good transport links into the City and central London. There's also an Overground line at nearby Woodgrange Park, while neighbouring Forest Gate will have a stop on the Elizabeth Line. East Ham is in Zone 3.
East Ham eateries
Vijay's Chawalla
A popular Indian restaurant, Vijay's Chawalla serves up authentic cuisine in the heart of East Ham. The distinctive pink facade helps it stand out, while the tasty dishes garner the kind of reputation that has The Guardian saying "Deep wafts of tomato, chilli and tamarind will draw you in, but the bhel poori will keep you coming back".
Rustix Gourmet
Sample a burger or two at Rustix Gourmet on Barking Road. This is a place where comfort food reigns supreme, and you're encouraged to indulge with hearty gourmet burgers that are bound to get the mouth-watering.
Central Park Cafe
Head to the Central Park Cafe for a selection of handmade bread, soups and pastries & cakes. Since opening, it has gone on to become a favourite with the locals, thanks to tasty bites and an on-site bakery.
Things to do in East Ham
Central Park
Located on High Street South, Central Park offers open spaces to wander, a children's playground, tennis courts, bowling green and a history trail. It's also the inspiration behind Central Park Cafe, which you will find in the park.
West Ham football club
Why not head to the London Stadium to watch Premier League side West Ham play in front of 60,000 fans? Not many neighbourhoods can boast a location right next to a premium sporting club, but living in East Ham means you can get behind your local team.
Red Door Studios
If you fancy flexing your creative chops, then find inspiration at Red Door Studios, a community that's run by artists. There are artist studios, regular classes and even pop-up cafes waiting to be discovered.
Moving to East Ham
There's plenty going on in East Ham, from charming homes to community-led creative spaces. If you're looking for an area that taps in to its surroundings and embodies an eclectic mix of cultures to offer a microcosm of London, then East Ham certainly won't disappoint.
