When visiting Britain’s bustling capital, it’s easy to get swept up in the grandeur of its world-famous attractions. However, for those looking to delve deeper into the city’s rich cultural heritage and history, a visit to East London is a must. Here are the best 7 East London places for the real cockney culture, from buzzing markets to historical theatres and famous landmarks.
The area’s strong connection to the working-class cockney traditions offers an authentic and unfiltered glimpse into the lives of Londoners.
St Mary-le-Bow Church
Visit the Church of St. Mary-le-Bow on Cheapside, a building intrinsically linked with cockney heritage. While many Londoners, especially those from the East End, now identify as Cockneys, the term was historically reserved for those born within earshot of St Mary-le-Bow church.
Enjoy the famous bells ringing out every 15 minutes, appreciate Sir Christopher Wren’s architecture, and treat yourself to a rustic meal at the café nestled within the church’s ancient crypt.
Wilton’s Music Hall
Situated in the heartland of cockney London, Wilton’s Music Hall is one of the last surviving grand music halls of its kind. Step back in time and experience the authentic charm of traditional cockney entertainment.
Join in for a traditional East End sing-along, including classic tunes from the Music Hall era, songs that lifted spirits during the World Wars, showstoppers from the West End, and other popular songs from various decades.
Brick Lane Music Hall
Experience the flavour of cockney culture at the Brick Lane Music Hall. This glamorous venue, located in a former church, offers traditional ‘Cockney Sing-Song’ shows accompanied by a classic afternoon tea.
Keep an eye out for the Pearly Kings and Queens, who are often part of the entertainment. These iconic figures of cockney culture can be seen dressed up in their eye-catching outfits covered in shiny mother-of-pearl buttons.
G Kelly
Visit G Kelly on Roman Road to enjoy a taste of old-school, working-class food, popularised as ‘a cockney classic’.
The facade of this unpretentious family-run shop has retained its nostalgic charm since its inception in 1939. Expect hearty servings of homemade pie and mash for just under a fiver.
Those with adventurous palates can also try jellied or stewed eels, a throwback to 18th-century London foodways.
The Blind Beggar
Step into the Blind Beggar on Whitechapel Road, one of the most popular pubs in London with a real cockney vibe.
Standing on what used to be an old inn, this Victorian establishment served as the cradle for the Salvation Army and gained notoriety for its connections with the East End’s infamous gangsters.
Sip on a pint within the historic walls of the place that has silently witnessed the events of London’s local life for hundreds of years.
Yotel Shoreditch
Stay at Yotel Shoreditch for a taste of the authentic cockney culture. Not only is the hotel conveniently located among East London’s prime attractions, but its restaurant also pays tribute to the local lingo.
It offers snacks and main courses described in the hotel’s cockney rhyming slang, such as ‘Uncle Reggie Murray’ (veggie curry), ‘Mona Lisa’ (pizza Margherita), or ‘Uncle Reg Rolls’ (vegetable spring rolls).
East End Markets
Visit the East End’s local markets to catch a glimpse of the daily lives of generations of Cockneys. Wander through the Old Spitalfields Market, Colombia Road Flower Market, and Brick Lane Market to hunt for a bargain from the local stallholders.
Rifle through racks of vintage clothes, browse arts and crafts stands, and get a feel of the hip vibe, creative energy, and authenticity that all define this fascinating part of the city.
If you would like to go on a guided walk of East London, these are some of the best ones:
