Area by area

Did you know?

• At 800 feet, the tower at Canary Wharf (1 Canada Square) is the tallest building in the UK.
• Frank Bruno used to train in a gym above the Royal Oak pub in Canning Town.
• The name the Isle of Dogs came about because there used to be royal kennels in the area.

SHOPPING

Are you walking correctly?

Billingsgate Fish Market

The original Billingsgate Market traded in Lower Thames Street for 900 years, moving to West India Docks in 1982 but maintaining its reputation as the best place to buy fish. More than 65 merchants sell almost every type of fish and seafood you could imagine; from jellied eels and salted cod, to salmon from Norway or lobsters from Canada.
ADDRESS: Trafalgar Way, Isle of Dogs E14 5ST  TEL: 020 7987 1118  OPEN: Tues-Sat 5.00am-8.30am; Sun 6.00am-8.00am Shellfish market only.

Canary Wharf Shopping Centre

Made up of three arcades: Canada, Cabot and Jubilee Place, this is an upmarket shopping centre with over 200 shops, cafés and restaurants. There's a good mix of popular high street names as well as independent retailers and the area is especially good for clothes shopping. The centre also contains a rather large branch of Waitrose.
ADDRESS: Canary Wharf Shopping Centre, Canada Place E14  TEL: 020 7418 2000  OPEN: Mon-Fri 9.00am-7.00pm; Sat 10.00am-6.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-6.00pm. Disabled access and toilets.

Friends Organic Health Food 

Associated with the Buddhist Centre, this vegetarian food store offers whole foods, fruit and vegetables, bread, snacks, sandwiches, natural remedies, herbal & homeopathic remedies, supplements and body care.
ADDRESS: 83 Roman Road, Bethnal Green E2 0QN  TEL: 020 8980 1843  OPEN: Mon 10.00am-6.30pm; Tues 10.30am-6.30pm; Wed-Thurs 10.00am-6.30pm; Fri 10.00am-7.00pm; Sat 10.00am-6.00pm. Disabled access (one small step).

antique prints and maps

French Connection and Nicole Farhi Factory Shop

Stocking seconds, last season and basic clothing, all with the FCUK & Nicole Farhi label, this is a great place to rummage for a beautiful bargain.
ADDRESS: 3 Hancock Road, Bromley-by-Bow E3 3DA  TEL: 020 7036 7000  OPEN: Sat-Weds 10.00am-3.00pm; Thurs 11.00am-6.30pm; Fri 10.00am-5.30pm. Disabled access.

Frontispiece

Perhaps one of the East End's most interesting shops, Frontispiece sells antique prints and maps. They have over half a million prints in stock, but if you can't find what you're looking for, don't despair as they will search for it for you. This shop is perfect for both the serious collector and for those looking for a special gift. An instant bespoke framing service is also available.
ADDRESS: Concourse Level, Cabot Level East, Canary Wharf E14 4QS  TEL: 020 7363 6336  OPEN: Mon-Fri 9.00am-7.00pm; Sat 10.00am-6.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-6.00pm. Disabled access.

super stylish pens

KSM Sports

This shop boasts England player Ashley Cole as one of its regular customers. Its specialities are imported trainers and hip-hop wear.
ADDRESS: 439, Roman Road E3 5LX  TEL: 020 8981 8367  OPEN: Mon-Sat 10.00am-6.00pm. Disabled access.

Mont Blanc

With a reputation that you wouldn't shake a 'Biro' at, the Mont Blanc shop at Canary Wharf stocks some incredibly stylish pens and may inspire unusual gift ideas for the loved ones in your life.
ADDRESS: 6 Canada Place, Canary Wharf E14 5AH  TEL: 020 7719 1919  OPEN: Mon-Fri 9.00am-7.00pm; Sat 10.00am-6.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-6.00pm. Disabled access.

Perfect Presents

The perfect place to buy presents for 'difficult' friends. They have a wide range of collectables, silver, watches, cuddly toys and picture frames, as well as more unusual items. You can buy your cards and wrapping paper here too.
ADDRESS: Concourse Level, Cabot Place East, Canary Wharf E14 5AB  TEL: 020 7512 9440  OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.30am-7.00pm (Thurs 8.00pm); Sat 10.00am-7.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-6.00pm. Disabled access.

Roman Road Market

Big, colourful and full of character, this is a true East End market where you can buy fabric, shoes, clothes, hardware and fruit and veg (and almost anything else) at knock-down prices. The market gets crowded at weekends, but there are plenty of food stalls, cafés and authentic pie and mash shops for weary shoppers.
ADDRESS: Roman Road, Bow E3 5LU  TEL: 020 7364 1717  OPEN: Tues, Thurs, Sat 8.00am-6.00pm.

Romford Road Market

Famed in the 18th and 19th centuries for its brewery and scores of busy pubs, the Romford Road is now a good place to seek out a bargain. The market has a typically diverse selection of goods on offer, from books to bread, flowers to fish.
ADDRESS: Romford Road, Mile End E3  OPEN: Wed, Fri & Sat 8.30am-5.30pm.

Whitechapel Market

A long established, thriving local street market bordering the East End and the city, Whitechapel is brilliant for soaking up the sights and sounds of the local culture. Amongst the stalls selling clothes, carpets, bedding and electrical goods, you'll find Indian jewellery and spices, exotic vegetables, and fabulous silks and sari materials. Hungry visitors can choose from a fry-up in a local workman's café and a pint of lager in an East End pub, or a curry and refreshing fruit lassi in one of the many good quality Indian restaurants.
ADDRESS: Whitechapel Rd, Whitechapel E1 5BS  TEL: 020 7364 1717  OPEN: Mon-Sat 8.00am-6.00pm.

Zee and Co.

Two stylish shops selling designer clothing for men and women; names such as Armani, D&G and Maharishi to get the label luvvies going.
ADDRESS: 416/454 Roman Road E3 5LU  TEL: Men's: 020 8983 3383 Women's: 020 8980 2122  OPEN: Mon-Fri 9.30am-6.00pm; Sat 9.00am-6.00pm. Disabled access.

BARS AND PUBS

Black Lion

A true locals' local, this former coach inn is one of the oldest pubs in the area. The staff are always friendly, they have Adnams and London Pride on draft, a jukebox which is always on and  a courtyard beer garden.
ADDRESS: 59-61 High Street, Plaistow E13 OAD  TEL: 020 8472 2351  OPEN: Mon-Tues 11.00am-3.30pm, 5.00pm-11.00pm; Wed-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. No disabled access.

slick and modern

Bow Bells

Don't let the bright orange colour of this listed building put you off. This is a traditional East End boozer with real ale on tap and friendly bar staff to serve it. There's a pool table, big screens for those all important matches and karaoke for when you fancy a sing-song. They even have their own resident ghost in the ladies' toilet!
ADDRESS: 116, Bow Rd, Bow E3 3AA  TEL: 020 8981 7317  OPEN: Mon-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Disabled access.

The Crown

An East End treasure with a difference: everything on the menu is organic, including all the drinks, and where possible Fair Trade. This means it's a little bit more pricey than your average gastropub, but well worth it. The food is rustic in style and the menu is changed twice daily. There is an excellent choice of locally brewed real ales and over 50 organic wines.
ADDERSS: 223 Grove Road, Bow E3 5SN  TEL: 020 8981 9998  OPEN: Mon 5.00pm-11.00pm; Tues-Fri 12.00pm-11.00pm; Sat 12.00pm-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Disabled access and toilets.

The Fine Line

The Fine Line is a slick bar, with modern art work on the walls and plush soft furnishings. There's a great selection of cocktails and a large restaurant area with a Mediterranean influenced menu.
ADDRESS: 29-30 Fishermans Walk, Canary Wharf E14 4DH  TEL: 020 7513 0255  OPEN: Mon-Wed 12.00pm-11.00pm; Thurs-Fri 12.00pm-12.00am; Summer only: Sat&Sun 12.00pm-11.00pm. Disabled access and toilet.

homemade steak and kidney pie

The Golden Grove

As part of the Wetherspoon's chain, you know what to expect with The Golden Grove - a no-music policy, bar snacks, cheap pints and drinks promotions. There are also two gardens that are great for a little summer supping, with gas heaters on hand for less forgiving seasons. There's a no smoking section, a 'Try before you buy' promotion on all ales and a couple of gaming machines to play with your mates.
ADDRESS: 146-148 The Grove, Stratford E15 1NS  TEL: 020 8519 0750  OPEN: Mon-Sat 10.00am-11.00pm; Sun 10.00am-10.30pm. Disabled access and toilet.

Grapes

A quaint, narrow little pub with a timelessly traditional atmosphere. Charles Dickens knew it well: as a child he was made to stand on a table and sing to the customers. In adult life he wrote about the pub in 'Our Mutual Friend' changing its name to "The Six Jolly Fellowship Porters". Up some very narrow stairs is a small restaurant that serves some of the best fish town and looks out over the river.
ADDRESS: 76 Narrow Street, Limehouse E14 8BP  TEL: 020 7987 4396  OPEN: Mon-Fri 12.00pm-3.00pm & 5.30pm-11.00pm; Sat 12.00pm-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. No disabled access.

The Henry Addington

With waterside doors opening out to the docks, The Henry Addington is a great place to have a few pints during the summer months. The large bar features gaming machines and televisions, whilst the food consists of, amongst other things, a particularly tasty homemade steak and kidney pie.
ADDRESS: 22-28 Mackenzie Walk, Canary Wharf E14 4PH  TEL: 020 7513 0921  OPEN: Mon-Thurs 11.00am-11.00pm; Fri-Sat 11.00am-12.00am; Sun 12.00pm-7.00pm. Disabled access and toilet.

Queen’s Head

A friendly pub with two big screen televisions, pool tables, darts and gaming machines. The favourite bar snacks here are the double-decker sandwiches, burgers and steaks.
ADDRESS: 5-7 West Ham Lane, Stratford E15 4PH  TEL: 020 8536 1066  OPEN: Pub Mon-Sat 11.00am-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Food Mon-Fri 12.00pm-2.30pm. Disabled access.

RESTAURANTS

authentic Tapas

Café Mondo

With two little coffee emporiums in the Town Centre, Mondo is great place for snacks, hot bevvies and some R&R. The branch attached to the library has a couple of sofas, some funky contemporary art on the walls and a whole pile of books just inches away from your table.
ADDRESS: @ The Library, 5 The Grove, Stratford E15 1EL OR 3 West Ham Lane, Stratford E15 4PH  TEL: 020 8555 1319 OR 020 8519 4013  OPEN: Mon-Fri 8.30am-5.30pm; Sat 9.30am-5.00pm; Sun closed. Disabled access and toilet at The Library.

Carluccio’s

Located in the heart of the Docklands, Carluccio's can be found basking in the shadow of the Canary Wharf skyscrapers. Expect the usual offerings from this small Italian chain, with antipasto, pastas, soups and salads all gracing the menu. This is not only a great place for a full blown meal, but also some snacks, a good glass of wine and some incredible coffee.
ADDRESS: Nash Court, Canary Wharf E14 5AJ  TEL: 020 7719 1749  OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.00am-11.00pm; Sat 10.00am-11.00pm; Sun 10.00am-10.00pm. Disabled access and toilet.

excellent Dim Sum

G Kelly

For some true East End tucker, only one dish will do...Pie and Mash! G Kelly has been serving up some spectacular pies in Roman Road market since 1929. If the homemade meaty and vegetarian pies don't float your boat, try the hot or jellied eels. 
ADDRESS: 526 Roman Road, Bow E3 5ES  TEL: 020 8980 3165  OPEN: Mon&Wed 10.00am-2.00pm; Tues 10.00am-3.00pm; Thurs 10.00am-3.45pm; Fri 10.00am-4.30pm; Sat 10.00am-5.30pm. Disabled access.

La Tasca

Serving up a varied Spanish menu in a traditional setting, La Tasca always has a warm atmosphere. Tapas is their speciality, made to authentic recipes and perfect for sharing with a loved one or group of friends. They also serve four different types of Paella and have an excellent wine list.
ADDRESS: Hertsmere Road, West India Quays E14 4AE  TEL: 020 7531 9990  OPEN: Mon-Sat 12.00pm-11.00pm; Sun 12.00pm-10.30pm. Disabled access and toilets.

japanese peruvian fusion

New Tayyabs

This popular Punjabi restaurant has just been extended to try to keep up with demand; the food here is so good that previously people had to queue for ages to get a table. Most people who come here rave about the lamb chops so do give them a go. Other favourites include baby pumpkin and aubergine and lentils. The food is incredibly good value for money with main dishes priced between £3 and £10. The restaurant is BYOB.
ADDRESS: 83 – 89 Fieldgate Street, Whitechapel E1 1JU  TEL: 020 7247 9543  OPEN: Mon-Sun 5.00pm-11.30pm. Disabled access and toilet.

Royal China

This restaurant serves up excellent Dim Sum and seductive views over the Thames. The service can be a little slow, but the delicious food should make up for it.
ADDRESS: 30 Westferry Circus, Canary Wharf E14 8RR  TEL: 020 7719 0888  OPEN: Mon-Thurs 12.00pm-11.00pm; Fri&Sat 12.00pm-11.30pm; Sun 11.00am-10.00pm. Disabled access and toilets.

home to seven youth companies

Spice Inn

Take your pick from a menu full of Indian delights, such as Chicken Tikka, Prawn Dhansak, Lamb Korma and Saag Aloo. The Chef's speciality at Spice Inn is Lamb Badshahi - a hot and spicy recipe with lemon juice, onion seeds, fennel and mustard seeds. The interior is your standard Indian fare, with potted plants and some beautiful oil paintings imported from India and Bangladesh. There is a take-away service, Cobra beer in the fridge and a large private car park available at weekends.
ADDRESS: 22-28 Romford Road, Stratford E15 4BZ  TEL: 020 8519 1399  OPEN: Sun-Thurs 12.00pm-2.30pm & 6.00pm-11.30pm; Fri-Sat 12.00pm-2.30pm & 6.00pm-12.00am. Disabled access.

Ubon

Ubon offers up fusion cuisine combining Japanese and Peruvian ingredients. Expect to find Sushi, Sashimi and the now legendary Black Cod with Miso, whilst the wine list offers a carefully selected range. The restaurant has floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning views across the Thames and City of London.
ADDRESS: 34 Westferry Circus, Canary Wharf E14 8RR  TEL: 020 7719 7800  OPEN: Mon-Fri 12.00pm-2.15pm & 6.00pm-10.15pm; Sat 6.00pm-10.15pm; Sun Closed. Disabled access and toilet.

history of the river and its people

Wapping Food

The food at this award-winning restaurant is modern European and the menu changes daily. It is situated at the Wapping Project (see Arts and Culture) in the beautifully adapted Turbine and Engine Houses of the old Hydraulic Power Station. As well as sampling the sumptuous food, customers can try out and buy outstanding contemporary furniture as part of an ongoing exhibition.
ADDRESS: Wapping Hydraulic Power Station, Wapping Wall E1W 3ST  TEL: 020 7680 2080  OPEN: Mon-Fri 12.00pm-3.30pm & 6.30pm-11.00pm; Sat&Sun Brunch 10.30am-12.30pm. Dinner 7.00pm-11.00pm (Sat). Disabled access and toilets.

ARTS AND CULTURE

once run by Dr Barnardo

Half Moon Young People's Theatre

Perfect entertainment for the little ones in your life, The Half Moon People's Theatre produce all sorts of shows utilising a myriad of methods. The theatre is home to seven youth companies for young people of all abilities aged 5-20 years, including specialist work with young people with physical disabilities and sensory impairments.
ADDRESS: 43 Whitehorse Road, Limehouse E1 0ND  TEL: 020 7709 8900  OPEN: Call for details  COST: Adults £5.00; Under 18's & Concs. £3.50. Disabled access and toilets - call for other information.

Jongleurs

One liners, jugs of beer, raucous laughter and the odd heckle: the Jongleurs chain has developed a comic reputation in the last 21 years. Since its conception a number of little known comics have climbed on to stage - many are now household names.
ADDRESS: 221 Grove Road, Bow E3 5SN  TEL: Box Office 0870 78 70 707  OPEN: Fri&Sat doors open 7.00pm, last entry 8.00pm  COST: £14.00. Disabled access and toilets.

Museum in Docklands

Charting an unfamiliar area of London's history, the Museum in Docklands tells the story of the river, port and its people, from the arrival of the Romans to the rise of Canary Wharf. The galleries take a multi-media approach with cutting edge technology, making it a truly memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
ADDRESS: 1 Warehouse, West India Quay, Hertsmere Road E14 4AL  TEL: 0870 44 43 857  OPEN: Mon-Sun 10.00am-6.00pm  COST: Adults £5.00; Concs. £3.00; Children under 16 Free. Disabled access and toilet.

Prenelle Gallery

The Prenelle Gallery, in West India Quay, is housed on a converted Dutch barge with 1000 sq. ft. of internal gallery space and an 800 sq. ft. sculpture deck.  The gallery exhibits contemporary work by new and established artists working in sculpture, photography, painting, site specific installations, film&video and performance. Artists include Sarah Jones and Eric and Adam Thompson.
ADDRESS: Barge Prins, West India Quay, Hertsmere Road E14 4AE  TEL: 020 7093 0628  OPEN: Wed-Sat 1.00pm-6.00pm (during exhibition)  COST: Free.

The Ragged School Museum

Located on the banks of the Regent's Canal in a characteristic building with a fascinating past, the Ragged School Museum is one of London's historic treasures. The building was run by Dr Barnardo from 1877 to 1908 when it operated as London's largest free school for poor children. The Museum runs exciting programmes for schools and families throughout the year and boasts a collection of objects and stories from the Victorian era to the present day.
ADDRESS: 46-50 Copperfield Road, Mile End E3 4RR  TEL: 020 8980 6405  OPEN: Wed&Thurs 10.00am-5.00pm; First Sun of the month 2.00pm-5.00pm  COST: Free. Disabled access and toilets (ground floor).

Stratford Circus

Stratford Circus is a centre for the performing arts. Three spaces host a variety of events including dance, music, theatre, comedy nights, story-telling sessions and youth showcases. Classes and workshops are available for all ages.
ADDRESS: Theatre Square, Stratford E15 1BX  TEL: Box Office: 020 8279 1000 9.00am-6.00pm  OPEN: Call for performance times  COST: Call for details. Disabled access, toilets and lifts.

The Space Arts Centre

Located within a restored 19th Century Presbyterian Chapel, The Space is a performing arts venue providing a platform for music, dance, theatre, film, cabaret and poetry, as well as being a daytime resource for educational projects, art exhibitions and community use. Monday nights play host to the Free Jazz Jam which has been running for five years.  Wednesdays to  Fridays are  theatre, cabaret or bands night  featuring the up and coming artists from London's underground scene, as well as some surprisingly well known names. There are many more regular events, plus guest and touring exhibitions.
ADDRESS: 269 West Ferry Road E14 3RS  TEL: 020 7515 7799  OPEN: Centre please call for details; Bar 12.00pm-11.00pm  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access and toilet.

The Wapping Project

Since its opening in 2000, this incredible arts space has received critical acclaim for the transformation of the 1890 Wapping Hydraulic Power Station. Its diverse arts programme comprises of works by visual artists, choreographers, composers, writers, poets, designers and film-makers. The Project is also home to the award-winning restaurant Wapping Food (see Eating Out for more details).
ADDRESS: Wapping Hydraulic Power Station, Wapping Wall E1W 3ST  TEL: 020 7680 2080  OPEN: Gallery Mon-Sat 12.00pm-10.30pm; Sun 12.00pm-6.00pm  COST: Free. Disabled access and toilets.

Whitechapel Art Gallery

The Whitechapel has hosted premier exhibitions from many influential artists in their emerging years, such as Picasso, Rothko and Pollock. It continues to exhibit work from both established and emerging artists.
ADDRESS: 80-82 Whitechapel High Street, Whitechapel E1 7QX  TEL: Recorded information 020 7522 7888  OPEN: Tues-Sun 11.00am-6.00pm; Thurs 11.00am-9.00pm  COST: 5 shows a year, 4 of which are free. Disabled access and toilet; please call for further information.

Whitechapel Bell Foundry

Britain's oldest manufacturing company (in business since the days of Elizabeth I) makes everything from the smallest hand bell to large pealing bells for church towers. The Big Ben bell was made here in 1858, weighing in at over 13 tonnes. Tours of the Grade II listed buildings are run on Saturdays although prior bookings are essential. There is also a small museum area and shop.
ADDRESS: 32/34 Whitechapel Road, London E1 1DY  TEL: 020 7247 2599  TOURS: Sat 10.00am & 2.00pm  COST: £8.00. Disabled access to ground floor.

CINEMA

Mile End Genesis Cinema

ADDRESS: 93-95 Mile End Road, Stepney Green E1 4UJ  TEL: 020 7780 2000  COST: Call for details. Disabled access and toilets.

woodland walks or football pitches

UGC Cinema

ADDRESS: 9 Hertsmere Road, West India Quay E14 4AL  TEL: 0871 200 2000  COST: Call for details. Disabled access and toilets.

Stratford Picture House

ADDRESS: Theatre Square, Stratford E15 1BX  TEL: 020 8555 3366  COST: Call for details. Disabled access, toilets and lift.

CLUBS AND MUSIC

largest inner-city farm in Europe

Copywright

Relax and socialise in this stylish and friendly club. Enjoy a cocktail in their comfortable bar or sample the Latin flavours from the delicious Tapas menu. Then dance until the early hours on the intimate dance floor to club classics with Latin and familiar Urban beats.
ADDRESS: 110 Pennington Street, Shadwell E1 9BB  TEL: 020 7488 9000  OPEN: Thurs-Sat: 9.00pm-3.00am  COST: £5.00 before 10.00pm, £10.00 after 10.00pm, £20.00 after midnight. Disabled access and toilets.

see how a farm works

Purple E3

Nominated in 2004 as London's best nightclub (Smirnoff awards) this is a great place to come and end of the week. There are three rooms each with their own style of music - Funky House in one, Garage and club classics in another and R'n'B in the last. The club gets very full with the fun loving fashionable set so it's advisable to apply for a place on the guest list.
ADDRESS: 562 Mile End Road, Mile End E3 4PH  TEL: 020 8980 3030  OPEN: Thurs-Sat 10.00pm-3.00am  COST: £8.00 before 11.00pm, £10.00 after 11.00pm. Disabled access to ground floor.

The Rhythm Factory

By day The Rhythm Factory serves up fresh coffee and a Thai menu: there are comfortable sofas for people to relax on and the walls are adorned with contemporary art and photographic works. By night it turns into a busy meeting place playing laid-back tunes. But behind the bar is a hidden gem: a popular club where the only thing you can be certain of is a good time. The club always has a different feel to it with live bands and guest promoters playing cutting edge club music, Breaks, Funk and Hip Hop.
ADDRESS: 16-18 Whitechapel Road, Whitechapel E1 1EW  TEL: 020 7375 3774  OPEN: Mon-Thurs 11.00am-1.00am; Fri 11.00am-4.00am; Sat 9.00pm-5.00am  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access and toilet.

PARKS AND OPEN SPACES

Beckton District Park

The park is home to a woodland walk, a millennium tree trail, football pitches, a tranquil lake, ecological area and summer wildflower meadow. Fishing is also available for members of Newham Angling Club – new members are welcome.
ADDRESS: South - Stansfeld Road, Beckton E6. North - Tollgate Road, Beckton E6  TEL: 020 8552 0939  OPEN: Dawn-Dusk. Disabled access.

Island Gardens

A charming riverside park with stunning views over Greenwich. The view has remained unchanged in over 250 years and was famously depicted in a picture by Caneletto.
ADDRESS: Saunders Ness Road, Docklands E14  TEL: 020 7364 5000  OPEN: Visitor Centre Tues-Fri 10.00am-5.00pm; Sat-Sun 2.00pm-5.00pm. Winter Sun 1.00pm-4.00pm. COST: Free. Disabled access and toilet.

Mile End Park

Having undergone a major refurbishment, Mile End Park is now home to a selection of interactive and community based activities. There's a children's park with a large play area, a climbing wall and a millennium bridge designed by Piers Gough. The park is ecologically friendly with a wind turbine, low energy buildings, and electric Go-Karts with no fumes and a low noise level. But that's not the end of it – look out for Connexions (a one stop advice shop for youth), a new adventure park for eleven to seventeen year olds and Concordia where there's a recoding studio. An extreme sports' centre, a dirt bike course and mini ramp for skating are all due to open soon.
ADDRESS: Rhodeswell Road, Mile End E14  TEL: Enquiries 020 7364 4147 Booking 020 7364 3106  OPEN: Dawn-Dusk. Disabled access.

Mudchute Park and Farm

Ideal for kids, the largest inner city farm in Europe is home to a host of farmyard animals, although the inquisitive llama is the star of the show. For the children there are loads of hands-on activities, horse riding, a nature trail and an education centre so that they can learn more about animal care. For the parents there's a handy café and a garden centre. All this with the stunning backdrop of Canary Wharf. 
ADDRESS: Pier Street, Isle of Dogs E14 3HP  TEL: 020 7515 5901  OPEN: Mon-Sun 9.30am-4.30pm  COST: Free. Disabled access and toilets.

Newham City Farm

Established in 1977, Newham City Farm has gone from strength to strength and is now a great place to take the kiddies for a country day in the middle of the city. With a wide collection of farm animals (including a number of rare breeds), a visitor centre, paddocks and educational facilities, children are able to get close to the animals and experience how a real farm works.
ADDRESS: Stansfeld Road, Beckton E6 5LT  TEL: 020 7474 4960  OPEN: Tues-Sun 10.00am-5.00pm  COST: Donations. Disabled access and toilet.

Stratford Park

Here you'll find trees and shrubs and an ornamental fountain. If you're feeling sporty why not try five-aside footie, tennis or a spot of bowls on the bowling green. For the children there's a paddling pool and play area and even a sensory garden.
ADDRESS: West Ham Lane, Stratford E15  TEL: 020 8552 0939  OPEN: Dawn-Dusk. Disabled access.

Victoria Park

This East End Park is often neglected by Londoners from other parts of the city, but locals will agree it's a fantastic spot to spend a summer's day. There are two lakes, some great playgrounds and sports facilities and The Victoria Model Boat Club, 'the world's oldest model boat club', which meets here most Sunday mornings. Other attractions include a Deer herd and animal enclosure, tennis, football and cricket pitches, a bowls green, café and outdoor cinema in July and August.
ADDRESS: Grove Road, Hackney E3  TEL: 020 7364 5000  OPEN: Dawn-Dusk. Disabled access.

Wanstead Park

Wanstead Park is a Grade II historic park owned and maintained by the Corporation of London. This large open space offers a number of restful ambles such as the avenue of Sweet Chestnut trees and the gardens of The Temple.
ADDRESS: Warren Road, Wanstead E11  TEL: 020 8532 1010  OPEN: Dawn-Dusk.

SPORTS AND LEISURE

Balaam Leisure Centre

At Balaam there are two swimming pools, a dance studio, sauna and steam facilities and a free weights and fixed weights gym.
ADDRESS: Balaam Street, Plaistow E13 8AQ  TEL: 020 7476 5274  OPEN: Mon-Thurs 7.30am-10.30pm; Fri 9.00am-10.30pm; Sat 9.00am-5.00pm; Sun 9.00am-5.00pm  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access, GP referral scheme, hoist for pool, disabled changing and toilet facilities.

Hollywood Bowl

Perfect for a family occasion but equally fun for a night out with friends, this is your chance to reveal your competitive streak and show who's the tenpin wizard. Food and drink can be ordered while you play and there's a licensed bar, a café and lots of games.
ADDRESS: 3a Teredo Street, Surrey Quays SE16 7LW  TEL: 020 7237 3773  OPEN: Mon-Wed & Fri 12.00pm-late; Thurs, Sat & Sun 10.00am-late  COST: Prices vary - call for details. Disabled access and toilets.

John Orwell Sports Centre

Here you'll find artificial grass pitches, a sports hall, fitness classes, a fitness gym and tennis facilities.
ADDRESS: Tench Street, Wapping E1W 2QD  TEL: 020 7488 9421  OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.00am-10.00pm; Sat 9.00am-6.00pm; Sun 9.00am-7.00pm  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access.

Mile End Stadium

Mile End Stadium is home to an athletics track and grass pitches. Cricket and Tennis facilities are available for hire, as are two artificial pitches for eleven and seven a-side football.
ADDRESS: Rhodeswell Road, Poplar, Mile End E14 7TW  TEL: 020 8980 1885  OPEN: Mon-Fri 9.00am-10.30pm; Sat-Sun 9.00am-6.00pm  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access, changing rooms and toilets.

Newham Leisure Centre

Newham Leisure Centre is home to a 25m pool, sports hall with eight badminton courts and five a-side football facilities, a 400m running track, two studios for classes, a fitness gym and a crèche.
ADDRESS: 281 Prince Regent Lane, Plaistow E13 8SD  TEL: 020 7511 4477  OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.30am-10.00pm; Sat 9.00am-5.30pm; Sun 9.00am-10.00pm  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access, changing facilities, toilet and lift for pool.

SAILING AND WATERSPORTS

Check out any of the following organisations for courses and training for the complete novice through to the more experienced skipper.

Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre

The centre has the best of both worlds with the sheltered waters of Millwall Dock providing the perfect place for people to learn. For the more experienced there's access to the more challenging currents of the river Thames. Sailing, canoeing, dragon boat racing and power boats are all offered. It's also a Royal Yachting Assocaition approved training centre.
ADDRESS: Docklands Sailing and Watersports Centre, 235a Westferry Road, Millwall Dock, Isle of Dogs E14 3QS  TEL: 020 7537 2626  OPEN: Call for details. Full disabled access.

Docklands Watersports Club

A members-only club for Jet-skiing. There's a public viewing area and the clubhouse is aboard the Tereza-Joanne, which holds up to 200 people and is available for private.
ADDRESS: Docklands Watersports Club, Gate 14, Tereza-Joanne (boat), King George V Dock, Woolwich Manor Way E16 2NJ  TEL: 020 7511 7000  OPEN: Winter Thurs-Sun, Summer Wed-Sun 10.00am-Dusk. Disabled access and toilets.

Peter Chilvers Windsurfing Centre

Windsurfing tuition for all abilities and ages. A great family day out.
ADDRESS: Peter Chilvers Windsurfing Centre, Gate 5, Tidal Basin Road E16 1AD  TEL: 020 7474 2500  OPEN: Call for details. Disabled access and toilets.

Royal Docks Waterski Club

A large area of water where you can learn to waterski, wakeboard or learn to drive a speed boat. It caters for beginners upwards and all the equipment you need can be hired on site.
ADDRESS: Royal Docks Waterski Club, King George V Dock E16 (entrance through City airport)  TEL: 020 7511 2000  OPEN: Call for details. Limited disabled access; disabled toilets.

St George's Pools

Alongside swimming lessons for children and adults, from beginner to advanced levels, there is also a timetable for inflatables sessions, casual swims, family swims and lane swimming. If swimming is not your thing check out the general fitness and exercise classes.
ADDRESS: 221 The Highway, Wapping E1 9BP  TEL: 020 7709 9714  OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.00am-9.00pm; Sat-Sun 8.00am-6.00pm  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access, lift, changing rooms, hoist and toilets.

Tiller Leisure Centre

This leisure centre offers a varied range of exercise activities, including a boxing gym, swimming sessions, sun beds, children's activities and fitness and health classes.
ADDRESS: Tiller Road, Docklands E14 8PX  TEL: 020 7987 5211  OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.00am-9.30pm; Sat-Sun 8.00am-5.00pm  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access, hoist, changing rooms and toilet.

Whitechapel Sports Centre

Whitechapel Sports Centre boasts a large multi-purpose hall, offering a variety of activities including badminton, netball, cricket and basketball. Artificial grass pitches are available for hire, and a fitness gym caters for a number of exercise programmes and classes.
ADDRESS: Durward Street, Whitechapel E1 5BA  TEL: 020 7247 7538  OPEN: Mon-Fri 7.00am-9.00pm; Sat 8.00am-6.00pm; Sun 8.00am-4.00pm  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access, changing rooms and toilet.

West Ham FC

This popular East End club, affectionately known to friends and foes as 'The Hammers', has seen the likes of Bobby Moore, Trevor Brooking and Geoff Hurst grace the pitch. Located at Upton Park, The Hammers are known for their stylish play on the field, yet their last big break was in the 1980's when they beat Man U to win the FA cup.
ADDRESS: Boleyn Grown, Green Street E13 9AZ  TEL: Box Office 0870 11 22 700  OPEN: Mon-Fri 9.00am-5.00pm; Non-match Sat 9.00am-1.00pm; Match Sat 9.00am-game  COST: Please call for details. Disabled access and toilet.

COUNCILS

London Borough of Tower Hamlets

ADDRESS: The Town Hall, Mulberry Place, 5 Clove Crescent E14 2BG  TEL: 020 7364 5000.

London Borough of Newham

ADDRESS: The Town Hall, Barking Road, East Ham E6 2RP  TEL: 020 8430 2000.