Tower Hamlets is a London Borough in East London known for its multicultural cuisine, edgy art scene and trendy bars. A mix of old and new, the borough is home to both historic landmarks such as the Tower of London, while the modern buildings in the Canary Wharf complex are some of the tallest in Europe.

Things to do

If you’re interested in exploring the history of the area, spend some time at the V&A Museum of Childhood and admire the huge collection of dolls houses and board games or learn about London’s sailors and pirates at the Museum of London Docklands. You can follow the footsteps of Jack the Ripper, and take a tour through the streets and alleyways where the unsolved crimes took place in 1888.

The bohemian atmosphere of Tower Hamlets has long made it a haven for artists. The Art Pavilion has both indoor and outdoor exhibitions and a lovely view of the small lake outside. Alternatively, head to Whitechapel Gallery, a contemporary art gallery that has premiered dozens of famous artists including Mark Rothko, Frida Kahlo and Pablo Picasso.

Are you a fan of spicy food? Brick Lane’s Indian and Bangladeshi population makes it the best place in London for curry, particularly at Sheba, which has won the Cobra Good Curry Guide. Billingsgate Fish Market is the best place to buy high-quality salmon, lobster and oysters. Get there early for the pick of the best seafood, before enjoying breakfast in one of the nearby cafes.

Getting around

Tower Hamlets is serviced by four reliable London Underground lines, which are complemented by above-ground trains running north to south through the borough. There are multiple bus routes and walking is also possible throughout certain areas of Tower Hamlets.