The River Thames
The River Thames, a timeless symbol of Britain, flows serenely through the heart of London and beyond, weaving a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Stretching over 215 miles, it is the longest river in England and has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s narrative. From ancient times to the modern era, the Thames has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, inspired countless artists, and continues to be a vital artery for commerce and leisure. It is also the backdrop for our Borough market food tour when we meet on London bridge.
Ancient Beginnings
The Thames has been a crucial part of British history since prehistoric times. Archaeological findings suggest that humans have settled along its banks for thousands of years, with evidence of Neolithic tools and Bronze Age artifacts. The river provided a natural highway for early settlers, facilitating trade and communication.
When the Romans invaded Britain in AD 43, they recognized the strategic importance of the Thames. They established Londinium (modern-day London) along its banks, constructing bridges, ports, and roads that transformed the river into a bustling hub of commerce and military activity. On our Borough market food tour we meet at London bridge. There has been a bridge here since Roman times which is why we have the market where it is.
Medieval and Renaissance Eras
Throughout the Middle Ages, the Thames continued to be a lifeline for the city. It was central to the growth of trade guilds and the establishment of markets, such as Billingsgate Fish Market. During the Renaissance, the river was lined with grand palaces and estates, including the Tower of London and Hampton Court Palace, showcasing the wealth and power of the monarchy and nobility.
Literary Influences
The river Thames has been a muse for countless writers and poets. It features prominently in the works of William Shakespeare, Charles Dickens, and T.S. Eliot, among others. Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre was located near the Thames, and many of his plays, including “The Tempest” and “Twelfth Night,” reference the river. Dickens’ novels, such as “Great Expectations” and “Our Mutual Friend,” vividly depict the Thames as a symbol of both opportunity and peril.
Artistic Expression
Artists have long been captivated by the Thames’ ever-changing moods and landscapes. The river has been immortalized in the works of J.M.W. Turner, Claude Monet, and James Whistler. Turner’s atmospheric paintings, in particular, capture the ethereal beauty of the Thames, while Monet’s series of views of the Houses of Parliament reflect the interplay of light and water.
Modern-Day Thames
Today, the Thames is flanked by some of London’s most iconic landmarks. The Tower Bridge, completed in 1894, remains a quintessential symbol of the city. The London Eye offers panoramic views of the river and the cityscape. Modern developments like the Shard and the Tate Modern art gallery sit harmoniously alongside historic sites, creating a dynamic urban landscape.
Leisure and Tourism
The Thames is a magnet for tourists and locals alike, offering a plethora of recreational activities. River cruises provide a unique perspective on London’s landmarks, while the Thames Path, a long-distance walking trail, invites explorers to discover the river’s natural and urban beauty. Rowing and sailing are popular sports, with annual events such as the Oxford-Cambridge Boat Race drawing large crowds.
Environmental Initiatives
In recent years, there has been a concerted effort to improve the ecological health of the Thames. Once heavily polluted, the river is now home to a diverse range of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and over 125 species of fish. Organizations like the Thames Estuary Partnership and the Zoological Society of London work tirelessly to monitor and protect the river’s ecosystem.
The Thames Beyond London
While the Thames is often associated with London, its influence extends far beyond the capital. The river flows through picturesque towns and cities like Oxford, Windsor, and Henley-on-Thames, each with its unique charm and historical significance. These areas offer serene landscapes, historic sites, and cultural festivals, making the Thames a continuous thread in the fabric of England.
How to explore London like a local
If you’d like to really get under the skin of London why not join one of our small group food tours. We run tours in the East end and Borough market throughout the week. Focusing on supporting independent food and drink businesses, our tours are full of history, fun facts and fascinating anecdotes. You can see more here; https://londonbitestours.com/london-food-tours/
London’s best street food stalls.
We have one of the best jobs in the world here at London Bites. We don’t just run food tours but we also need to go and test out as many different food stalls as we can in order to make sure all of the tours visit the best places possible.
There’s thousands of amazing street food vendors in London and we keep finding new and different flavours.
Here, we explore some of the best street food stalls in the city that promise to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Borough Market: The Heart of Food Lovers
Borough Market, located near London Bridge, is a historic market that has become a haven for food enthusiasts. Among its many stalls, Kappacasein Dairy stands out with its legendary cheese toasties. Made with Montgomery cheddar, onions, and leeks, these toasties are grilled to perfection, resulting in a gooey, crispy delight that is simply irresistible. There’s always a big queue though so prepare yourself.
Another must-visit at Borough Market is Portena. We visit here on our food tour and it’s a really popular stop. They make fresh empanadas daily in their small stall on Stoney street. Classic fillings like ham and cheese or tomatoe and beef go really well with a cold beer on a summers day.
Maltby Street Market: A Hidden Gem
Tucked away in Bermondsey, Maltby Street Market is a smaller, more intimate market compared to Borough Market, but it packs a punch with its eclectic food offerings. Mooncheese toasties is a standout here, serving up some of the best grilled cheese sandwiches in London. Using locally sourced cheeses, their sandwiches are gooey, cheesy, and utterly delicious.
Once you’ve had your lunch you can then enjoy an afternoon on the Bermondsey beer mile.
Brick Lane: A Flavor Explosion
Brick Lane is famous for its vibrant street art, bustling markets, and a plethora of food stalls offering flavors from around the world. Beigel Bake, a 24-hour bakery, is an institution in itself. Known for its salt beef bagels, this iconic spot serves up soft, chewy bagels stuffed with tender salt beef, mustard, and pickles. It’s a must-visit for anyone exploring Brick Lane. It isn’t a street food stall but you can’t really come to Brick lane without paying a visit here.
Southbank Centre Food Market: Riverside Delights
The Southbank Centre Food Market, located along the River Thames, is a bustling hub of food stalls offering an array of international cuisines. The Frenchie is a popular stall here, known for its gourmet duck confit burgers. Served with truffle mayonnaise, melted cheese, and rocket in a brioche bun, these burgers are a decadent treat that should not be missed.
If you’re in the mood for something sweet, head over Choco fruit. It’s actually a bit healthy as there’s plenty of fruit which is then drizzled with the most delicious belgian melted chocolate.
Camden Market: A Street Food Paradise
Camden Market is a street food paradise, offering a wide variety of food from different cultures. Three Uncles is definitely worth a visit. Cantonese roasted meats. think Charsiew pork, roasted pork belly and duck. It’s really popular but the queue does move quick.
Another good spot is Tropidog which knocks out amazing gourmet hotdogs. Great to eat as you wander around the market.
London’s street food scene is a reflection of its rich cultural diversity, offering a myriad of flavors and culinary experiences. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, exploring these street food stalls is a gastronomic adventure that will introduce you to some of the best bites the city has to offer. From the historic Borough Market to the eclectic Camden Market, each stall offers something unique and delicious. We could write millions of blogs like this and hardly even touch the sides. There’s so much great food to discover. So, grab your appetite and embark on a street food journey through London that you won’t soon forget.
We run daily food tours in London. Each tour explores either Borough market or the East End. We try some amazing dishes from our local vendors on the tour supporting the local food and drink community.
You can find out more here.
Christmas in London
Christmas in London has always been a special time, especially in the East End.
The area is well known for that tightknit community feel and no season shows this more than Christmas.
Famous for it’s Dickensian cobbled streets the area takes on a character of its own at this time of year.
Here we take a look at what Christmas was like in Victorian times here in the East End.
In the 19th century, London embraced the Christmas season with a blend of nostalgia, elaborate decorations, and heartwarming traditions that have left an indelible mark on the way we celebrate Christmas today.
Carol Singing
In Victorian London, the air on Christmas Eve was filled with the harmonious voices of carol singers. Groups would traverse cobblestone streets, spreading holiday cheer with timeless carols like “Silent Night” and “God Rest Ye Merry, Gentlemen.” The tradition of caroling was not only a form of entertainment but also a way to foster a sense of community and unity during the festive season.
Christmas decorations by gaslight
Though Christmas trees had been introduced to England by Queen Victoria’s German husband, Prince Albert, it was during the Victorian era that they became a popular feature in London households. Streets were adorned with festive greenery, and shop windows were meticulously decorated to create a magical atmosphere. The soft glow of gas lamps added an ethereal quality to the city, casting a warm light on the snowy streets and contributing to the enchanting ambiance.
Christmas food and drink
Christmas feasting in Victorian London was a lavish affair. Families would gather around tables laden with roast meats, mince pies, and plum puddings. The aroma of spices, roasted chestnuts, and mulled wine wafted through the air, creating a sensory delight. Wassailing, a traditional practice of toasting to the health and prosperity of the household, was a common occurrence, bringing together friends and family in shared celebration.
Christmas Gifting
The Victorian era witnessed the popularization of gift-giving as a central Christmas tradition. Exchanging handmade gifts and small tokens of affection became customary. However, the spirit of Christmas extended beyond personal exchanges, as Victorians embraced charitable acts during the festive season. Inspired by the charitable themes in Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” many Londoners took this time to support local causes and extend a helping hand to those less fortunate.
Pantomimes
Theaters in Victorian London flourished during the Christmas season, offering a variety of festive performances. One of the most enduring traditions was the Christmas pantomime – a lively and often humorous stage show that blended fairy tales, music, and audience participation. The pantomime became a cherished part of the holiday experience, providing entertainment for families and adding a touch of whimsy to the Christmas celebrations. If you have never been to one we would higjly recommend you do, they’re great fun. This year at the Palladium Jennifer Saunders and Julian Clary star in Peter Pan. You can get your tickets here.
Victorian London set the stage for many of the beloved Christmas traditions we hold dear today. From the timeless melodies of carol singers to the festive decorations adorning the streets, the Victorian era shaped the way we celebrate the holiday season. As we bask in the warmth of our own Christmas traditions, it’s worth taking a moment to reflect on the nostalgia and charm of a Dickensian Christmas, where the spirit of generosity, community, and festive joy took center stage in the heart of Victorian London.
Come and explore Christmas in the East end of London on our Eat the East End food tour.
You can even gift a loved one a food tour voucher this Christmas. Click here to buy a gift voucher.
How to visit Borough Market.
Borough Market is one of the oldest markets in London. It’s an absolute must do when in London and is our most popular food tour. Here we give tips on how to visit Borough market, including what to eat and when to go.
So how do you visit Borough market?
Well the obvious answer is to join one of our food tours of course. We run smaller group tours (no more than 10 people) so you can get closer to the action and experience the market like a local. If you don;t have the time to join our tours here’s some tips to get the most out of your visit to the market.
How to get to Borough market.
The market is right at the south end of London Bridge. London Bridge station is right next to the market itself and provides fantastic transport links to the rest of London. If the weather allows a really cool way to arrive at the market is to walk over London Bridge. The reason that Borough market is where it is is due to this bridge. The first to cross the river Thames and as a result the location of all the trade and activity back in London’s early days.
When to visit Borough market.
The market is open Tueaday to Sunday 10am to 5pm. We highly recommend getting there at opening times as the place does get crowded. Like many inner city markets it’s a labrynth of alleyways and passages. It’s really easy to get lost and not actually see a lot of the market. If you arrive early then you can at least beat some of these crowds.
What to eat.
We could talk for days about the amazing food on offer at the market. One must try would be the sausage rolls at Ginger Pig butcher. These guys were one of the first vendors to open up here in Borough and they pride themselves on farm to table produce. Another place we love is Juma kitchen which is a really cool Iraqi cuisine hut. They have won numerous awards including being finalists in the BBC’s food and farming awards.
What to buy.
The market itself has a small souvenir shop which a lot of our guests enjoy popping into. On the outskirts of the market are smaller, local vendors selling produce that you can take away. Don’t miss Pate moi who have a delicious mushroom pate which they claim is the wolrd’s most addictive. Also Bath soft cheeses sell amazing cheese that you can take home and enjoy with a nice glass of wine after your day of exploring.
Of course we’d love to host you on our Borough market food tours. We keep the groups small so that there’s less stress and everyone can feel involved. We also visit a few places not mentioned here and not that well known. You can book by clicking here.
The best markets in London
Some of the best markets in the country can be found in London. We are really lucky to be able to enjoy amazing art, antiques, fashions and no forgetting food right on our doorstep. Many guests who come on our food tours ask us what are our favourite markets in the capital so here’s a list of our top 5.
Borough Market
Known as one of the best street food markets in the UK a visit to Borough is a must for every food lover visiting London. Situated at the south end of London bridge the market is also one of the oldest in London dating back over 1,000 years. We host food tours on market days (Wednesday to Sunday) where we explore the market as well as the fascinating surrounding areas. Highlights of our tastings include freshly baked empanadas, traditional fish and chips and some of the best cheese in the country. Don’t miss it, book your spot here.
Alfie’s Antique Market
This is a really unique experience. Alfies is located in Marylebone and is open Tuesday to Saturday. If you are an antiques lover you’re in the right place. Spread over 4 floors there are over 100 dealers selling everything from old electronics to period furniture. It’s a great place to stroll around even if you aren’t buying anything.
Broadway Market
Hosted on Saturdays this Hackney market is for the hip and trendy. A traditional fruit and veg market has been here since the late 19th century but now it is the home of organic food, vintage clothing and books and gifts to tempt you in parting with your cash. It’s a great spot for food as well with some really good stalls but also some great restaurants in the local area.
Columbia road Flower Market
Get the instagram ready for your photos. Columbia market is hosted every Sinday just off the main drag of Shoreditch. The street is transformed with the coloruful plants, bulbs, flowers and trees on sale. It gets really busy so give yourself plenty of time to wnader the street and it’s surrounding area. There’s some great little coffee shops along the road as well so even if you go on a non market day, you’ll find something good there.
Greenwich Market
This indoor market dates back to the 18th century. There’s a great selection of gift stalls, including lewellery and other nic nacs. Theres even some popular furniture sellers based here. You are very close to the river so during the summer it’s a good market to visit with the breeze. There’s also some good street food to sample while you’re there.
Are you planning on coming to London in 2023? If so we’d love to show you around on one of our food tours. Explore London’s east end or Borough market with us.
Christmas in London
Christmas in London is a magical time. The shops are all decorated with colourful lights. The bars and restaurant are full of revellers and the mood across the city is one of excitement and fun. We always say that there’s no bad time to visit London but really one of our favourite seasons is the run up to Christmas.
So what can you do in London at Christmas. Well a festive food tour of course. But apart from that here’s a list of some of our favourite activites.
Christmas Markets.
All across the UK November brings the arrival of Christmas markets. Cities across the country are flooded with small stalls selling all sorts of wierd and wonderful things. From unique gifts for family and friends to some amazing food selections. Mulled wine and traditional german sausages are always high on the menu. London is no different. You can explore the christmas markets in Covent Garden, Leicester square and the Southbank centre as well as many other sites across the capital. Be warned though, they are a bit expensive.
A trip to the theatre.
One of everyone’s favourite christmas films comes to the west end this year. Elf the musical runs from 14th November to 7th January at the Dominion theatre and promises to be a treat for all the family. You could also try and catch the always popular Lion King which is on at the Lyceum theatre or Frozen at the Theatre Royal on Drury lane.
Christmas Lights tour.
You can take a tour of the Christmas lights with our friends at Visit London Taxi tours. You’ll explore Oxford street, Regent street and Mayfair just to name a few. And all from the comofrt of your own private London black cab. If you want to stop off at some Christmas markets along the way, no problem.
Try your hand at Ice Skating.
Whenever the temperature drops in the UK we like to challenge ourselves to a bit of ice skating. This probably dates back to the 1984 winter olympics when Torvill and Dean won gold at figure skating. Ever since then we’ve been a nation of wannabe ice skaters. Most of us fail miserably and to see this in action, or evben to join us in our falling and sliding about you can visit any of the pop up ice skating rings that appear over the christmas months. One of our favourites is at Hampton Court where you can skate away in Henry the 8th’s back garden.
Whatever you decide to do, London is an amazing city to visit at Christmas. We’d of course love to show you some of our favourite spots as well as food stalls this December. So if you’re visiting London get in touch and join our food tours.
London Street Art: The Chewing Gum Man
London is awash with some of the best street art in the world. Here’s the story of one of our most famous street artists, the chewing gum man.
From Discarded Chewing Gum to Art
If you walk around London, you can’t help to notice that we have a litter problem, and chewing gum is one of the most significant parts of this issue.
With careless people just spitting gum wherever they please, discarded gum has become a permanent part of the pavements around our city. And the time and effort required to remove gum are beyond most councils’ means.
In 2004 an inspired artist called Ben Wilson decided to take these tiny spots of selfish waste and turn them into something beautiful. Ben painstakingly makes patches of old chewing gum on the ground on his canvasses for tiny pieces of art – a uniquely modern take on the old British tradition of painting in miniature.
Each piece by Ben is usually inspired by someone he’s met, though sometimes it can even be a passerby.
How does the Chewing Gum Man do it?
Ben first softens the old chewing gum with a blow torch to create his unique street art. He then sprays it with enamel and lets it dry before beginning to create his art.
Using tiny brushes that would be otherwise used to paint model trains and cars, Ben carefully creates paintings and stories to commemorate the people of London and, indeed, the world.
It can take hours to finish each one, which is then covered in a protective lacquer. Many of his pieces of street art have lasted for years.
Lying on the Street Making Art
Sometimes, people who see Ben making his artworks think he’s drunk or on drugs. To paint, he has to lie on the street, often for hours at a time, without making much movement.
In fact, the police have been called, and on one occasion, he was forcefully dragged by his feet into a police van and arrested. He later won his appeal case and now carries a letter around with him that alerts any other policemen of his artistic endeavour.
Where Can You See Ben’s Work?
Ben lives in the Crouch End area of London, and you can see a lot of his work around here. Also, keep your eyes peeled around Shoreditch, especially on the Millennium bridge where Ben has made a special trail.
There’s a good chance you might bump into him while he’s touching up one of the pieces or creating a new piece.
Like many cities worldwide, London has so many stories to tell that are easy just to walk past.
If you’d like to see some of Ben’s art and hear some of London’s hidden stories, why not book a place on one of our Foodie Walking Tours of London?
Please contact us if you have any questions about our tours and services.
Fish and Chips in London
Fish and chips is a British food institution, and the nation’s capital has no shortage of fantastic places to find fish and chips of the best quality.
Whether you want a cheap and cheerful option for takeaway or you’re looking for a sit-down dining experience in a restaurant, you’ll find it in London.
Here we take a look at the history of our beloved national dish and give you some recommendations on where to find great fish and chips in London.
And if you’re looking to explore London’s foodie scene even further, please have a look at our range of London Food Tours.
The History of Fish and Chips in England
When we think of English cuisine, the one dish that comes to everyone’s mind is fish and chips. And like a lot of (read, most!) English food, the dish initially came to our shores with the arrival of refugees.
Yes, folks, our most famous dish isn’t entirely British. However, the internationalism of the UK food scene is unquestionably its greatest strength. (Take our London East End Food Tour to learn more about London’s multicultural culinary landscape.)
In the 16th century, Spanish and Portuguese Jews arrived in England after fleeing persecution in their homelands. With them, they brought a dish called “Pescado Frito”, which literally translates as “fried fish”.
The fish used was typically cod or haddock, which are plentiful around our shores. The fried fish was described as being cooked in “the Jewish fashion” (coated in flour before frying).
In the 17th century, London welcomed another group of refugees, this time French Huguenots. This group of Christian Protestant immigrants (also fleeing persecution in their homeland) brought the tradition of frying potatoes with them to England.
It was in 1860 that a Jewish man called Joseph Malin opened a shop right in the heart of London’s East End that combined the two delights – fish and chips was born!
Fish and chips is so important in our culinary history that in both WW1 and WW2, the British government safeguarded the dish from rationing. It was believed that a good portion of fish and chips would keep the people’s morale high.
Today, the dish sits alongside pies, tea (another long and winding history!), cooked breakfasts, and the Sunday Roast, as a quintessentially British foodstuff.
If you’re travelling in the UK for the first time, you must indulge in a portion of fish and chips. If you’re a UK native enjoying some time in the nation’s capital, don’t miss out on some of the best fish and chips you’ll find in the south.
Where to Eat Fish and Chips in London?
Our Eat the East End Food Tour features some truly delicious fish and chips!
We visit the famous East End fish and chip shop Poppies. The boss, Pat “Pop” Newland, has worked in the fish and chip world since 1952. The original Poppies is located in Spitalfields, but you can also find them in Soho and Camden. Although Poppies offers wallet-friendly prices, all the fish is cooked to order. We’re here regularly, and it never disappoints!
If you’re in Soho, you can also try Golden Union. These guys have been serving fish and chips since 2008, and they estimate that they’ve served almost 2 million customers. Known for their mammoth portions, you won’t leave this Soho favourite hungry.
Want to dive deeper into the world of fish and chips? Have a read of Timeout London’s Best Fish and Chips Restaurants and discover a further nine top-class fish and chip shops!
Explore London’s Food Scene
If you’d like to explore the back streets of London, trying out some of our favourite dishes, book a food tour with us!
Our popular Eat the East End food tour explores Shoreditch, Brick Lane and Spitalfields.
Additionally, we also have Team Building And Corporate Activities In London – organise a truly unique London experience for your colleagues or friends.
On each of our tours, you can try a fantastic array of dishes while learning about London’s fascinating history and culture.
Spitalfields Market
One of our favourite places to take guests on our Eat the East End food tour is Spitalfields market. Here we talk about the history of the market and what you can expect to see when you visit today.
The Beginning of Spitalfields Market
After the great fire of London in 1666, the areas to the east of the city became hubs for markets and trade.
In 1682 King Charles II granted a royal charter that allowed a market to take place every Thursday and Saturday in Spital Square. The market quickly established itself as one of the city’s most popular fruit and vegetable markets.
Business throughout the 18th century flourished. For this reason, the area attracted French Huguenot immigrants weavers. The revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685 meant French Protestants were forced to flee France.
Those who arrived in the East End of London brought their silk weaving businesses with them. Some of the weavers’ homes can still be found today on Fournier Street.
The French weavers were later followed by Irish weavers who had to emigrate from Ireland due to a decline in the linen trade. This influx of people led to the building of a church in the Spitalfields area – Hawksmoor’s magnificent Christ Church, a site we recommend you visit.
Spitalfields’ Decline
During the 19th century the market declined and it became known for cheaper, less desirable goods.
The low costs made it an attractive area for new immigrants to settle. It was at this time that many Jews from across Europe settled here, many fleeing anti-semitic attacks in the Russian Empire. The area became one of the largest Jewish districts in probably all of Europe, home to a staggering forty synagogues.
But the Jewish community would also gradually move out as other areas of the city came into their own, enjoying their own boom periods. By the mid-20th century, the area was a shadow of its former self.
Towards the end of the 20th century, the market itself was closed down and moved to the outskirts of London.
Spitalfields Market Today
The area began to go through a period of cultural renewal in the 1970s as large numbers of Bangladeshis arrived, bringing with them their vibrant culture and amazing cuisine. Conditions, though, were still far from ideal.
In the early 2000s, a process of redevelopment was begun and today Spitalfields Market is a must-visit for food lovers in London.
Open every day, the market is full of some of London’s most well-loved food stalls. You can find anything here, from artisan pizza vans to Sri Lankan curry stalls. The market’s historic roof has been kept which gives a really cool atmosphere.
There’s also a really good section for local artists and fashion designers. It’s the perfect place to find that unique gift to take home!
Next door, there is also the Old Spitalfields Market, another space offering unique gifts, vintage items, and unmissable food and drink.
Though often thought of as one market, Spitalfields Market and Old Spitalfields Market are two separate entities. However, they’re right next door to each other and both offer a dizzying amount of choices!
What to Eat in Spitalfields Market?
On our London food tours, we like to come to Spitalfields and try some amazing dishes. A great place to visit is the Dumpling Shack. These guys make amazing Shanghai dumplings. There might be a queue but it moves pretty quickly and is well worth joining.
We also love the Chai Guys who have a small stall knocking out some amazing Chai. Perfect for a cold London morning.
There are always some new stalls popping up so it’s worth a walk around before you choose what to eat.
To find out more about Spitalfields market and all of the delicious food offerings there, consider joining us on our London East End Food Tour – a great way to discover London and some of its hidden food gems!
If you have any questions regarding this blog or our tours, please get in touch.
Brick Lane: A History
Brick Lane lies at the heart of London’s rich culinary culture and is the main destination of our own London East End Food Tour. The area is renowned for its vibrancy, offering travellers of all types plenty to do.
Possessing a fascinating history, the area is today famous for being home to the Brick Lane food market, top-class Bangladeshi and Indian restaurants (and plenty more international cuisine), vintage shops, and colourful street art.
Whether you’re heading out for something to eat and a few drinks or simply want to spend an afternoon getting a feel of authentic London life, Brick Lane is an excellent part of London to explore.
Why is it Called Brick Lane?
In the 15th century, Brick Lane was known as Whitechapel Lane. It wound its way through fields on the eastern edge of what was then the City of London.
The name Brick Lane came about following the Great Fire of London in 1666 as the area is situated on ground rich with clay, making it the ideal spot for the manufacture of bricks.
Following the devastating destruction of the Great Fire, there was a huge amount of construction to be undertaken and so a brickmaking industry grew up here.
Brewing Comes to Brick Lane
Another early Brick Lane industry was brewing.
Just after the Great Fire of London in 1666, a huge brewery opened up on Brick Lane. The site was first established by the local Bucknall family and in 1666 they hired the services of brewer Joseph Truman, who would take over the operation completely from 1679.
The early brewery was known as the Black Eagle Brewery due to its premises being on the corner of Black Eagle Street and it came to establish itself as one of the world’s largest breweries (by 1748 the Black Eagle Brewery was producing 40,000 barrels of beer annually).
By the mid-18th century, the presence of Huguenot immigrants from France greatly increased local demand for heavily hopped beer (much production before then would have been in unhopped ales).
It was also around this time that the porter style of beer was developed, taking its name from the fact that the heavy-tasting beer was popular with local street and river porters.
The Truman family initially imported all their hops from Belgium but before long Kent farmers were producing their own hops to meet the rising demand. By 1898, Brick Lane’s brewery covered an incredible six acres of land.
Sadly, the long history of the brewery came to a halt in 1989 when production was stopped. As with many of London’s traditional industries, large multinationals had a monopoly on beer production.
However, the story doesn’t end there. The Truman brewery is still on Brick Lane today, though many of the historic buildings are being used as an arts and events centre.
Recently a group of local beer lovers purchased the Truman name and have had success in reviving the Truman brewery.
Early Immigration and Brick Lane
As touched upon above, in the 17th century French Huguenots escaped religious persecution in France and came to London. Brick Lane was where they settled.
The Huguenots were skilled weavers and many of the weavers’ houses can still be seen on the roads around Brick Lane. You can see the top floors have large windows to allow as much sunlight in to help the weavers see their work.
In the 19th century, many Jewish people arrived in London, escaping from pogroms within the Russian Empire. Again Brick Lane (being close to the docks) was a popular place to set up home.
Today Brick Lane boasts two of the most famous Jewish bakeries in London and people come at all hours of the day to try their famous Beigels.
You too can try them on our Eat the East End food tour.
Banglatown
The most recent wave of immigration into the area has come from Bangladeshis.
Since World War II, many families from Bangladesh have escaped the troubles back home and moved to London.
This wave of immigration has brought with it an exciting food culture and gifted Brick Lane with one of its greatest attributes: lots of fabulous curry houses!
Yes, the vibrant, bustling streets around Brick Lane are the perfect place to sample amazing curries in London. Of course, being a tourist centre, the quality can vary dramatically, so we recommend doing some research before choosing where to eat.
We previously wrote a blog that could be of help: What Is The Best Indian Restaurant On Brick Lane, London?
The Art and Culture of Brick Lane
Brick Lane is a hive of street art. From the world-famous Banksy to lesser-known local artists, art is just about everywhere you look in Brick Lane.
There’s always someone creating something when we’re out on our food tour – this celebration of arts, colour, and all things creative is a central part of the Brick Lane magic.
Indeed, some companies offer walking tours focused exclusively on street art, such as the number of things to see. And the best bit? There’s always something new popping up!
In addition to looking at art, Brick Lane is an excellent place to shop for local crafts, with the streets being home to an array of indie businesses.
How to Get to Brick Lane?
Getting to Brick Lane is super easy, whether you want to cycle, take the Underground, catch an overground train, or jump on a bus.
If you’re already in areas such as Shoreditch, Spitalfields, or Whitechapel, you’ll be able to walk to Brick Lane in ten to fifteen minutes.
If taking the Underground, you’ll want to get out at Aldgate East. If on the Overground, your nearest station to Brick Lane will be Shoreditch High Street.
For buses, consult local timetables with Transport for London – several bus routes serve the area.
If you’d like to learn more about Brick lane and try some of the amazing food in the area, why not join us on our Eat the East End food tour.
If you have any questions about Brick Lane or any of London Bites’ services, please get in touch.
