Your Residential Welfare Team's guide to East London



The Residential Welfare Team would like to extend a warm welcome to you as an Associate Student joining us this Semester, we are delighted to have you as a resident.

You will no doubt be eager to start exploring central London and to see the iconic City landmarks however, there is so much to see right on the doorstep of your new home!

We have therefore put together a guide of some of the hidden and not so hidden gems of East London, many of which are even within walking distance of the Mile End Campus. These are some great trips and icebreaker activities to do with flatmates and other residents so why not suggest a trip out together?!

Always remember that if you ever decide to go anywhere alone, let someone know where you are going and keep in mind these safety tips. 

Rinkoff’s Bakery
Rinkoff’s have some of the best baked goods in London and have been serving customers since 1911! Their two only locations are both within walking distance to the Mile End Campus, one on Vallance Road and one on Jubilee Street. Their bestseller is the crodoughs which we recommend you try! Check out their website for opening times and directions.

Genesis Cinema
Genesis Cinema is a totally unique experience and cinema within walking distance from the Mile End Campus. They offer student discounted tickets and have plenty of choices when it comes to food and drink, there is even a bar! Visit their website for show times and prices.

Old Spitalfields Market
There is something for everyone at this market, fashion, art, food, music and so much more. Spitalfields is one of London’s oldest markets and is now open seven days a week! There are so many hard-to-find pieces. Find out more here.

Columbia Road Flower Market
This market is one of London’s best known and best-looking markets, a flower lover's paradise in East London where you will be sure to get some great photos! Columbia Road is filled with buckets of flowers every Sunday from 8am-3pm. There are plenty of places nearby to grab and drink and something to eat nearby at Treacle or the Nelson’s Head.

Brick Lane/Shoreditch
Once you have been to Brick Lane you will be planning your next trip back there! This is the place to go for vintage clothes and thrifting. Make sure to go to the Vintage Market in the Truman Brewery. Brick Lane is also home to ‘Rokit’ one of the best-known vintage shops in London. There is no found that cannot be found on Brick Lane and endless bars and cafes. Here is a great guide to visiting.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
A quick bus ride away or one stop away on the Central Line, the Olympic Park is located in Stratford and Hackney Wick. The park is free to visit every day and is home to former Olympic and Paralympic venues including London Stadium and the London Aquatics Centre.

Victoria Park
Victoria Park is open daily from 7am, it is the largest park in the area and one of London’s most visited green spaces. There are two Cafes at the park, plenty of walking and cycle paths, a skatepark and has a picturesque lake with pedalos and rowboats available for hire.

Roman Road Market
This is a traditional East End street market that has been in operation for over 150 years famous for its affordable women’s clothing, street food and quality homeware. Home to Andy the doughnut man, St. Sugar of London you can’t miss a trip to this market! Check opening hours here.

The Coffee Room
Right next to some other great eateries, the Greedy Cow, the Rusty Bike and the Pizza Room is the Mile End Coffee Room. Perfect for a quick study break to grab a coffee and a bite to eat!

Mackbear Coffee in Stepney Green
An open-late coffee space perfect for studying which is only a 10-minute walk from the Mile End Campus! A great place to work with friends or alone. Visit their website for opening times and to see their brilliant menu!

We look forward to meeting many of you during your time with us! Don't forget, you can get to know us at the following link or come along to our Welcome Event for all Associate arrivals - there will be a reward for attending!