Things to Do in Stratford London: Exploring for Visitors

Introduction

Stratford, London, has undergone a significant transformation over the past decade, evolving into a vibrant destination that combines historical charm with modern attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast, Stratford has something for everyone. This comprehensive guide explores the best things to do in Stratford London, ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Stratford Attractions

Stratford offers a diverse range of attractions, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Here’s an in-depth look at what you can explore in this exciting part of London.

Popular Spots

Stratford is home to several iconic spots that should be on every visitor’s list. These locations offer a blend of history, culture, and modern entertainment.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Highlights: This park is a lasting legacy of the 2012 London Olympics. It features the Olympic Stadium, the London Aquatics Centre, and beautiful parklands.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy biking, walking trails, guided tours, and various sporting events. The park also hosts concerts and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Westfield Stratford City

Highlights: One of the largest shopping centers in Europe, Westfield Stratford City boasts a vast array of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.
Activities: Spend a day shopping at high-end boutiques and popular high street stores. Enjoy dining at a wide range of restaurants offering international cuisine. Don’t miss the state-of-the-art cinema and bowling alley for some entertainment.

ArcelorMittal Orbit

Highlights: The ArcelorMittal Orbit is the tallest sculpture in the UK and offers stunning views of the London skyline.
Activities: Take a ride down the world’s longest tunnel slide, or simply enjoy the panoramic views from the observation deck. This unique structure is both a piece of art and an exciting attraction.

Best Restaurants

Stratford boasts a vibrant culinary scene with options to satisfy all tastes. Here are some top restaurants you should try:

The Cow

Cuisine: British
Specialties: Known for its traditional roast dinners and a wide selection of craft beers. The ambiance is cozy and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for a relaxed meal.

Jamie’s Italian

Cuisine: Italian
Specialties: This restaurant by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver offers fresh pasta, delicious pizzas, and mouth-watering Italian desserts. It’s a great place for a casual yet high-quality dining experience.

Allegra Restaurant

Cuisine: Modern European
Specialties: Located on the seventh floor of The Stratford Hotel, Allegra offers seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The rooftop dining experience provides breathtaking views of the city.

Family Attractions

Stratford offers numerous family-friendly activities that are perfect for a fun day out with the kids:

Discover Children’s Story Centre

Activities: This interactive museum is designed for children to engage with stories through play and imagination. It features themed play areas, storytelling sessions, and creative workshops.

The Theatre Royal Stratford East

Activities: This historic theatre offers a range of family-friendly shows and workshops. It’s a great place to introduce children to the magic of live theatre.

Stratford Park

Activities: A large park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces for sports and games. It’s an ideal spot for a family picnic or a leisurely afternoon outdoors.

Nightlife Spots

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Stratford with these top spots:

Roof East

Features: This rooftop bar offers stunning views of the London skyline, along with a variety of entertainment options such as mini-golf, outdoor cinema, and games.
Activities: Enjoy cocktails, play games like table tennis and bowling, and catch a movie under the stars.

Aspers Casino

Features: Aspers is one of the largest casinos in the UK, offering a wide range of casino games, live entertainment, and dining options.
Activities: Try your luck at poker, blackjack, and roulette, or enjoy live music and shows. The casino also has several bars and restaurants for a complete night out.

The Bat and Ball

Features: A lively bar with a focus on social games like ping pong and pool.
Activities: Have a few drinks, play some games, and enjoy the upbeat atmosphere. It’s a great place for a fun night out with friends.

Outdoor Spaces

Stratford is home to some beautiful parks and green areas where you can enjoy outdoor activities:

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Features: This expansive park offers landscaped gardens, waterways, and sporting facilities.
Activities: Rent a bike and explore the park’s many trails, have a picnic by the river, or join one of the park’s guided tours to learn more about its history and significance.

Victoria Park

Features: One of London’s oldest public parks, featuring lakes, gardens, and historic monuments.
Activities: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on the lake, take a stroll through the rose garden, or attend one of the many festivals and events held in the park.

Lee Valley VeloPark

Features: A world-class cycling facility that was used during the 2012 Olympics.
Activities: Try your hand at track cycling, BMX, or mountain biking. The park offers rental bikes and professional coaching for all skill levels.

Historical Places

Stratford has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical landmarks and sites:

Stratford Old Town Hall

Features: A beautiful Victorian building that now serves as a venue for various events.
Activities: Take a guided tour to learn about the building’s history and architecture. It’s also a popular spot for weddings and other celebrations.

The House Mill

Features: A historic tidal mill that dates back to the 18th century.
Activities: Visit the mill to see how it operated and learn about its role in London’s industrial past. The site also hosts exhibitions and events throughout the year.

St. John’s Church

Features: A historic church with beautiful architecture and a peaceful churchyard.
Activities: Explore the church and its grounds, attend a service, or join one of the heritage tours to learn more about its history.

Shopping Areas

Stratford is a shopper’s paradise with a variety of shopping destinations to explore:

Westfield Stratford City

Features: A massive shopping center with over 250 stores, including high-end boutiques and popular high street brands.
Activities: Spend the day shopping, dining at one of the many restaurants, or catching a movie at the state-of-the-art cinema.

Stratford Centre

Features: A more traditional shopping center with a range of local shops and markets.
Activities: Find unique bargains, enjoy the bustling market atmosphere, and grab a bite to eat at one of the food stalls.

East Village Market

Features: A vibrant market offering local produce, crafts, and street food.
Activities: Browse the stalls, sample delicious food, and pick up some unique souvenirs.

Cultural Venues

Stratford boasts a rich cultural scene with several venues dedicated to the arts:

Stratford Circus Arts Centre

Features: A multi-disciplinary arts venue offering theatre, dance, and music performances.
Activities: Attend a show, participate in a workshop, or explore the art exhibitions.

Picturehouse Cinema

Features: An independent cinema showing a mix of mainstream and art house films.
Activities: Catch a movie, join a film club, or attend one of the special events and screenings.

Gerry’s Kitchen and Bar

Features: A popular spot for dining and live music.
Activities: Enjoy a meal, listen to live bands, and soak up the lively atmosphere.

Art Galleries

For art lovers, Stratford offers several galleries showcasing contemporary and classic works:

Here East

Features: A creative hub with studios, galleries, and exhibition spaces.
Activities: Visit the art shows, participate in workshops, and meet local artists.

The White Building

Features: An art and technology center located in Hackney Wick.
Activities: Explore the exhibitions, attend events, and enjoy the unique blend of art and innovation.

Chisenhale Gallery

Features: A contemporary art gallery known for its cutting-edge exhibitions.
Activities: View the latest works from emerging artists, attend artist talks, and participate in gallery events.

Sports Facilities

Stratford offers top-notch facilities for sports enthusiasts:

London Aquatics Centre

Features: An Olympic-sized swimming pool and diving facilities.
Activities: Swim in the same pool used by Olympic athletes, take diving lessons, or enjoy a family swim session.

Copper Box Arena

Features: A multi-use sports arena that hosts basketball, boxing, and other sporting events.
Activities: Attend a match or event, or participate in one of the fitness classes and programs.

Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis Centre

Features: State-of-the-art hockey pitches and tennis courts.
Activities: Play a match, take lessons, or watch professional games.

Leisure Parks

Relax and unwind in Stratford’s leisure parks:

West Ham Park

Features: Beautiful gardens, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
Activities: Enjoy a walk in the gardens, play a game of tennis, or have a family picnic.

Hackney Marshes

Features: Extensive open fields and sports pitches.
Activities: Play football, rugby, or cricket, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk.

The Greenway

Features: A popular walkway and cycle path with scenic views.
Activities: Walk or bike along the path, taking in the sights and sounds of Stratford.

Hidden Cafes

Discover Stratford’s quaint and cozy cafes:

Darkhorse Restaurant & Bar

Features: A stylish and cozy spot offering a variety of meals and drinks.
Specialties: Brunch, cocktails, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Signorelli Bakery

Features: An artisan bakery known for its delicious pastries and coffee.
Specialties: Freshly baked bread, pastries, and specialty coffees.

The Last Drop

Features: A charming cafe with riverside views.
Specialties: Light meals, drinks, and a perfect spot for relaxing by the water.

Unique Shops

Explore Stratford’s unique shopping experiences:

Stratford East Picturehouse Shop

Features: A shop offering film memorabilia and merchandise.
Specialties: Posters, film-related merchandise, and unique gifts.

The Record Deck

Features: A floating record shop on a canal boat.
Specialties: Vinyl records, music collections, and a unique shopping experience.

Get Living London Market

Features: A market offering artisan goods and local produce.
Specialties: Crafts, food, and unique finds from local vendors.

Scenic Walks

Enjoy scenic walks and trails around Stratford:

Greenway Walk

Features: An urban trail with great views of the city.
Activities: Walking, running, and taking in the urban landscape.

River Lea Navigation

Features: A waterside path that follows the River Lea.
Activities: Walking, cycling, and enjoying the tranquil riverside setting.

Olympic Park Trails

Features: A network of trails through the parklands of the Olympic Park.
Activities: Hiking, sightseeing, and exploring the beautiful surroundings.

Event Venues

Attend exciting events at Stratford’s top venues:

London Stadium

Features: A versatile venue hosting sports events, concerts, and more.
Activities: Attend a football match, a music concert, or a cultural event.

Copper Box Arena

Features: A multi-use sports arena with a busy events calendar.
Activities: Watch a basketball game, attend a boxing match, or join a fitness class.

Theatre Royal Stratford East

Features: A historic theatre offering a range of performances.
Activities: Enjoy plays, musicals, and special events in a beautiful setting.

Top Theaters

Catch a show at Stratford’s renowned theaters:

Theatre Royal Stratford East

Features: A theatre with a rich history and diverse programming.
Activities: Watch live performances, from classic plays to contemporary productions.

Stratford Circus Arts Centre

Features: A venue for a variety of performing arts.
Activities: Attend theatre, dance, and music performances, and participate in workshops.

Gerry’s Studio Theatre

Features: An intimate theatre space for smaller productions.
Activities: Enjoy plays, workshops, and experimental performances.

Local Pubs

Relax and socialize at Stratford’s popular local pubs:

The Princess of Wales

Features: A riverside pub with a welcoming atmosphere.
Activities: Enjoy drinks, socializing, and riverside views.

King Edward VII

Features: A traditional pub offering a classic pub experience.
Activities: Dining, drinks, and enjoying a cozy atmosphere.

The Goldengrove

Features: A family-friendly pub with a variety of meals and games.
Activities: Have a meal, play games, and enjoy a relaxed setting.

Museum Visits

Explore Stratford’s local museums:

Discover Children’s Story Centre

Features: An interactive museum designed for children.
Activities: Explore exhibits, join storytelling sessions, and engage in creative workshops.

The Ragged School Museum

Features: A museum set in a former Victorian school.
Activities: Learn about Victorian education, join guided tours, and participate in hands-on activities.

The Geffrye Museum

Features: A museum showcasing the history of domestic interiors.
Activities: Explore period rooms, visit the gardens, and attend special events.

Concert Halls

Enjoy live music at Stratford’s concert venues:

Hackney Empire

Features: A historic concert hall with a diverse program of performances.
Activities: Attend concerts, comedy shows, and theatrical performances.

Theatre Royal Stratford East

Features: A venue for music and theatre performances.
Activities: Enjoy live music, attend musical theatre shows, and join special events.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park Events

Features: Outdoor concert venues within the park.
Activities: Experience live music festivals, outdoor concerts, and cultural events.

Adventure Parks

Thrilling adventures await at Stratford’s adventure parks:

Go Ape Battersea Park

Features: A treetop adventure park with zip lines and climbing challenges.
Activities: Zip-lining, climbing, and experiencing treetop adventures.

Oxygen Freejumping

Features: A trampoline park offering a variety of activities.
Activities: Jumping, games, and fitness classes.

Thames RIB Experience

Features: Speedboat tours along the Thames.
Activities: High-speed river tours, sightseeing, and adrenaline-pumping fun.

Street Markets

Experience the vibrant markets of Stratford:

East Village Market

Features: A market offering local produce and crafts.
Activities: Shopping, dining, and enjoying the lively market atmosphere.

Roman Road Market

Features: A traditional street market with a variety of stalls.
Activities: Bargain hunting, sampling street food, and exploring the market.

Broadway Market

Features: A market known for its artisan goods and street food.
Activities: Browsing unique items, enjoying food stalls, and soaking up the atmosphere.

Cozy Bistros

Dine at intimate bistros in Stratford:

The Breakfast Club

Features: A bistro known for its all-day breakfast menu.
Specialties: Pancakes, eggs Benedict, and specialty coffees.

Hand Cafe

Features: A cozy cafe offering a variety of meals.
Specialties: Pastries, lunch dishes, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Sawmill Cafe

Features: A relaxed cafe with a focus on quality ingredients.
Specialties: Brunch, cakes, and a friendly vibe.

Modern Landmarks

Visit contemporary landmarks in Stratford:

The London Stadium

Features: A versatile venue used for sports and entertainment.
Activities: Tours, sporting events, and concerts.

The Crystal

Features: A sustainable building showcasing green technology.
Activities: Exhibits, tours, and learning about sustainability.

International Quarter London

Features: A modern business district with impressive architecture.
Activities: Sightseeing, dining, and exploring the area.

Green Spaces

Relax in Stratford’s green areas:

Mabley Green

Features: An open space ideal for sports and relaxation.
Activities: Sports, picnics, and enjoying the outdoors.

Abbey Gardens

Features: A community garden with beautiful plantings.
Activities: Relaxing, attending events, and enjoying the garden.

Walthamstow Marshes

Features: A natural reserve offering a peaceful retreat.
Activities: Walking, birdwatching, and exploring nature.

Relaxing Spots

Find peace in these relaxing spots:

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Features: Beautiful gardens and parklands.
Activities: Walking, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery.

Here East Canalside

Features: Riverside views and a tranquil atmosphere.
Activities: Strolling, dining, and unwinding by the water.

Hackney Marshes

Features: Expansive fields and open spaces.
Activities: Leisure activities, sports, and relaxation.

Local Festivals

Join in local celebrations and festivals:

Hackney WickED Festival

Features: An art festival celebrating local creativity.
Activities: Exhibits, performances, and workshops.

Lovebox Festival

Features: A music festival featuring a diverse lineup.
Activities: Live music, food stalls, and festival fun.

All Points East

Features: A multi-day music and arts festival.
Activities: Concerts, cultural events, and markets.

Must-See Sites

Don’t miss these Stratford highlights:

Olympic Rings

Features: An iconic symbol from the 2012 Olympics.
Activities: Photo opportunities and exploring Olympic history.

London Aquatics Centre

Features: An Olympic-sized pool and diving facilities.
Activities: Swimming, tours, and learning about the venue’s history.

ArcelorMittal Orbit

Features: A unique observation tower and slide.
Activities: Viewing the city, riding the slide, and enjoying the experience.

Public Art

Admire public art installations in Stratford:

The Line

Features: An outdoor art trail featuring contemporary sculptures.
Activities: Walking, art appreciation, and photography.

Here East Street Art

Features: Urban art installations and graffiti.
Activities: Exploring, photographing, and enjoying street art.

Olympic Park Sculptures

Features: Sculptures and public art throughout the park.
Activities: Viewing, exploring, and appreciating art.

Historic Tours

Take a guided tour of Stratford’s historic sites:

East London Walking Tours

Features: Guided tours exploring the history of East London.
Activities: Walking, learning, and discovering hidden history.

Olympic Park Tours

Features: Behind-the-scenes tours of the Olympic venues.
Activities: Guided tours, exploring, and learning about the 2012 Olympics.

Hidden London Tours

Features: Tours of lesser-known historic sites.
Activities: Exploring, learning, and discovering hidden gems.

Local Eateries

Dine like a local at these eateries:

Darkhorse Restaurant & Bar

Features: A modern dining experience with a European menu.
Specialties: Seasonal dishes, cocktails, and a stylish ambiance.

Ginger & Mint

Features: A healthy food spot with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Specialties: Smoothies, salads, and nutritious meals.

The Print House

Features: A riverside restaurant with a relaxed vibe.
Specialties: British dishes, craft beers, and scenic views.

Conclusion

Stratford, London, is a treasure trove of experiences, offering something for everyone. From historical sites and modern attractions to vibrant markets and serene parks, there are countless things to do in Stratford London. Whether you’re exploring with family, enjoying the nightlife, or simply relaxing in a green space, Stratford promises an unforgettable visit. Explore, enjoy, and share your experiences to help others uncover the beauty and excitement of Stratford.