Walthamstow has an abundance of art, culture and unbelievable coffee shops
As well as being one of the most geographically convenient places to live in London, Walthamstow has an abundance of art, culture and unbelievable coffee shops. Here’s a list of what to eat, where to drink and the general best things to do in this wonderful area.
What to eat
For weekend brunch, head to Buhler + Co, situated on Chingford Road. This is a great new addition for vegetarians and vegans in London, and the food is simply on another level. Try their delicious savoury breakfast muffins or their wonderful veggie fry up. Their coffee could well be the best in Walthamstow, and with beautiful contemporary décor and a spacious garden which hosts artist and music gigs, it's simply too good to miss. For dinner, look no further than Eat 17 on Orford Road. Right in the heart of Walthamstow Village, the restaurant prides itself on its homemade bacon jam. There's an excellent and affordable menu of fresh wholesome food, with the veg curry and steak and chips among its stand-out dishes.
Where to drink
Mirth, Marvel and Maud is, without a doubt, the standout destination here. After decades of sad decline, Walthamstow’s historic EMD Granada cinema has been refurbished and now serving as one of the most quirky and atmospheric pubs in London. Cocktails, regularly sourced ales, craft beer and decent wine all feature on the menu. Mix that in with wholesome pub grub and stunning ambience and you have a real gem here. The Bell pub also has a fine selection home made ales, board games and general merriment. Expect musicians, poets and spoken word in full flow! Lastly, Ye Olde Rose and Crown pub is an award winning theatre pub located on Hoe Street. This is a ‘proper pub’ with a relaxed atmosphere which also keeps abreast of the latest cultural happenings in London.
Things to do
Head to the William Morris Gallery for a family-friendly afternoon well-spent. This stunning Georgian house is set in Lloyd Park, celebrating the work of Walthamstow’s famed son, William Morris, the arts and crafts designer. The gallery is full of charm and explores the impressive history of the great man, his work and his influences on art and culture. It’s also worth pointing out that Lloyd Park makes a beautiful backdrop for the museum.
For something a bit quirkier, visit Gods Own Junkyard on the Ravenswood Industrial Estate (behind Walthamstow Village). It’s basically neon art everywhere, on all surfaces. Vintage signs, new signs, provocative signs, hip signs, it’s all here. And with more great coffee and food, what’s not to love?
Lastly, take a walk to Epping Forest, approximately 20 mins from Walthamstow and a beautiful, vast open landscape of natural beauty. It’s got woods, open grassy areas, a boating lake and stunning footpaths for decent walks. If you’re looking for something different and want to take your mind off the London bustle, the look no further. The ultimate easy getaway!