Most people know Walthamstow as the trendy area in “proper” East London. Over the last few years, however, Leyton has found itself on the list of those looking to sample the East End lifestyle.
The E10 postcode is just a stone’s throw away from Stratford, yet offers affordable rental prices compared to E15, while also benefiting from its proximity to the popular Olympic Park. As a result, it’s the residents who are reaping the benefits.
The London town has received cosmetic upgrades, offers easy access to nearby amenities, and features a tube station on the Central Line. Leyton living is on the rise.
On a map
Leyton comes under the London Borough of Walthamstow Forest and is located 6.2 miles north-east of Charing Cross. It borders Walthamstow and Leytonstone. The district includes part of the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
History
Photo credit: pubshistory.com
There are signs that early man hunted in Leyton, thanks to palaeolithic implements and fossil bones. The foundations of a Roman villa and cemetery have also been found in the area. Leyton was part of the County of Essex as early as Anglo-Saxon times.
Its name means “settlement on the River Lea”, and was known as “Low Leyton” until as recently as 1921. It has grown significantly from its population of 43, yet wasn’t a recognised London borough until 1965.
The depiction of the area has changed over the years – in the 18th century, it was known as a “pretty retiring place from London” for wealthy merchants and bankers. The arrival of the railway shifted Leyton to a residential and industrial suburb in the late 19th century.
Renting in Leyton
Victorian properties and purpose-built flats make up the majority of homes in Leyton. There is a substantial number of sharers living in the area, thanks to many of the period homes remaining intact rather than being converted into flats.
Several new residential developments have been built to keep up with demand, which is mainly due to the overspill of people looking for homes in areas other than Stratford and Walthamstow. Leyton Central is the most well known.
Those looking to save a pretty penny on rental prices will be drawn to Leyton’s affordability. One bedroom properties achieve in the region of £1,050 per month, two bedroom homes fetch £1,323, and three-bed houses average £1,643.
Find the latest Leyton rental properties
Who lives there?
Leyton is a diverse district, with origins from Russia, North Africa, Ghana, Jamaica, Ireland, Portugal, Cyprus and Italy making up significant number of residents. It’s also a relatively young area, with half the population under the age of 30.
Travel
The Tube station, aptly named Leyton, is on the Central Line and has services to some of London’s most popular areas, including Oxford Circus, Bond Street, St Paul, Bank and Liverpool Street. Trains go to nearby Stratford in just two minutes, while Oxford Circus is accessible in a little over 20 minutes.
Leyton’s accessibility makes it popular with professionals. Leyton Midland Road is another station in the area and is on the Overground. It has direct services to both Barking in East London and Gospel Oak in North West London. Both stations are in Zone 3
Things to do in Leyton
Leyton doesn’t have the same extensive list of amenities as nearby Stratford and Walthamstow. But there is still a selection of places to grab a bite and do a spot of shopping.
Restaurants
Oceano Restaurant
If you’re looking to mix it up with some international cuisine, head over to Oceano, an authentic Portuguese restaurant in E10. They have tasty fish dishes, as well as favourites that will make you forget that you’re in London. Delicioso!
Address: 381 High Rd Leyton, London E10 5NA
Five Lads
Despite its name, everyone is welcome at Five Lads, a flame-grilled, peri peri chicken restaurant/fast food shop. The menu includes, you guessed it, chicken, chicken, and more chicken. A chicken shop connoisseurs’ delight.
Address: 308 High Rd Leyton, London E10 5PW
Cafe Lolita Tapas
Keeping with international flavours, Cafe Lolita Tapas is a little gem in the heart of Leyton offering a slice of the Mediteraneana. Enjoy all types of tapas, from seafood to paellas and a selection of delicious meats.
Address: 350 High Rd Leyton, London E10 6QE
Amenities
Westfield Stratford City
Stratford is practically next door to Leyton, which means a trip to Westfield Stratford City should be high on the agenda of E10 postcode residents. Open until 9pm every night; there is an array of shops, from high fashion to high-street favourites. There is also a selection of eateries to try.
Address: Olympic Park, Montfichet Rd, London E20 1EJ
Brooks Farm
Who says you can’t enjoy a slice of the country right in the heart of London? Brooks Farm has been going strong in Leyton for over 20 years and features a range of animals including sheep, donkeys, ponies, goats and much more. A great day out with the kids.
Address: Skeltons Lane Park, Leyton, London. E10 5BS
Star Command Laser Tag
Take yourself to a galaxy far, far away. Actually, you can pop over to nearby Newham for a game of laser tag instead. They cater for large parties or just a few friends looking to partake in a game of laser tag. They also implement the latest VR technology to bring a retro activity into modern times.
Address: East Village, 31-34 Victory Parade, London, E20 1FS
Leyton living
While most think of Stratford and Walthamstow as the sought-after areas in East London, Leyton has managed to remain under the radar – great news for keeping rental prices down. It might not have the sheer volume of things to do, but excellent travel links and a strong community spirit make Leyton an appealing town to call home in London.
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