West Ham, London: A Guide to Dining, Exploring and Property

2025-05-30

West Ham is a dynamic neighbourhood in East London, known for its rich history, diverse community, and increasing popularity among professionals and families alike. Situated within the London Borough of Newham, it borders Stratford, Plaistow, and Canning Town. With major regeneration projects transforming the area in recent years, West Ham now offers a mix of traditional East End charm and modern urban living.

Popular Restaurants and Bars in West Ham

While West Ham itself has a more residential feel, the surrounding area offers a growing number of places to eat, drink, and unwind:

The Greyhound: A traditional East End pub serving hearty British fare and a good selection of ales. A community favourite, it blends a laid-back setting with live sports and weekend entertainment.

Pie Republic: Located nearby in Canning Town, this local gem specialises in handcrafted pies and craft beers, offering comfort food with flair in a relaxed environment.

The Queen’s Head: Nestled in Stratford, just minutes away, this historic pub features modern British dishes and an elegant outdoor seating area.

The Abbey Tap: A vibrant bar near Stratford High Street known for its lively atmosphere, sharing platters, and eclectic cocktails. It’s popular with the after-work crowd and match-day fans alike.

Al Masar: For something different, this Lebanese restaurant near Plaistow offers delicious grilled meats, mezze, and shisha in a stylish setting.

Other Entertainment

West Ham and its nearby surroundings offer plenty of leisure activities, sports venues, and cultural hubs:

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park: Just a short distance away, this sprawling park is home to iconic landmarks like the London Stadium and the Aquatics Centre. It’s perfect for outdoor walks, fitness activities, and major sports events.

Westfield Stratford City: One of Europe’s largest shopping malls, Westfield features luxury retailers, casual and fine dining, and a multi-screen cinema.

Theatre Royal Stratford East: A historic venue promoting diverse performances, from contemporary plays to musicals, and supporting local talent.

ArcelorMittal Orbit: A striking sculpture and observation tower with panoramic views of London, including the world's longest tunnel slide for thrill-seekers.

Transport Links in West Ham

West Ham boasts excellent connectivity, making commuting to central London and beyond convenient and efficient.

London Underground & DLR:

West Ham Station serves the District, Hammersmith & City, and Jubilee lines, plus the Docklands Light Railway (DLR).
Stratford Station, just one stop away, is a major hub with Central and Overground lines, National Rail, and the Elizabeth Line.

Buses and Cycle Routes: Extensive bus services and new cycle infrastructure make travel around East London simple and sustainable.

London City Airport: A short drive away, ideal for business and leisure travellers needing quick domestic and European flights.

Business and Education

As part of East London’s broader economic development, West Ham is increasingly attractive for professionals and families.

Proximity to Key Business Districts:

Canary Wharf is just a 15-minute journey, making West Ham ideal for financial sector professionals.

Stratford's International Quarter and Here East are fast-growing business hubs attracting tech and creative industries.

Education:

Primary and Secondary Schools:

Hallsville Primary School and Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Centre (The NCS) are among the top-rated educational institutions in the area.

Higher Education:

University of East London (UEL) and Queen Mary University of London are accessible via public transport, providing strong options for higher learning.

Property in West Ham

The property market in West Ham is experiencing a renaissance, thanks to regeneration and investment.

New Developments:

TwelveTrees Park, Hallsville Quarter and Upton Gardens offer modern apartments with landscaped communal areas, concierge services, and fitness facilities.

Period Homes and Conversions:

Victorian terraces and warehouse-style conversions offer charm and character, often more affordable than neighbouring areas.

Rental Appeal:

Increasingly popular with young professionals due to excellent transport links and value for money compared to central locations.

Why Move to West Ham?

West Ham offers a balanced lifestyle: affordability, connectivity, and urban transformation. With ongoing development, excellent transport links, and growing cultural and business opportunities, it’s a smart choice for first-time buyers, investors, and families seeking space and convenience in the capital.