How much do you know about this northeast suburb? Just a thirty-minute tube ride from Oxford Circus, the neighbourhood is an unexpected gold mine of cool bars and restaurants, as well as home to Europe's longest outdoor market and largest urban nature reserve. What can we say, E17 doesn't do things by halves. Take a look at our local guide to Walthamstow and see for yourself why the area's well worth a visit.
Eat At Supperclub.tube
Located inside a former train carriage, Supperclub.tube is by far one of the quirkiest dining experiences in London. Grab a table in the railway restaurant and spend an unforgettable evening tucking into a delicious Colombian-inspired tasting menu of tuna tostadas, corn dumplings and more, created by head chef Beatriz Maldonado Carreño.
Check Out God's Own Junkyard
No area guide to Walthamstow would be complete without mentioning the luminous emporium that is God's Own Junkyard. The perfect spot for film enthusiasts and snap-happy individuals, this fabulous utopia of neon signs, set props and fairground lights has been masterminded by Chris Bracey, the man behind some of the most iconic movie signs in modern cinema. So you know it's going to be good...
Get Boozy On The Blackhorse Beer Mile
The best way to get to know a place? With a pub crawl, of course. And, luckily for you, the bars here are second to none. Kicking things off from the nearby station, the Blackhorse Beer Mile will have you sipping on a range of pints from the likes of Exale Brewery and Signature Brew. There'll also be a tonne of alfresco seating options, as well as street food vendors and live music to keep you entertained.
Venture Around Walthamstow Wetlands
The crowning glory of this East London suburb has got to be Walthamstow Wetlands. The largest of its kind in Europe, the 520-acre nature preserve has 10 different reservoirs, 13 miles of paths and a multitude of birds and other animals. Take a walk along one of the numerous tracks or enjoy a summertime picnic while gazing out over the water.
Enjoy A Turkish Feast At Gökyüzü
A popular place to eat in Walthamstow, Gökyüzü is an authentic Turkish restaurant bringing classic Middle Eastern flavours to London. Whether you're after a delicious breakfast, a mix of lunchtime mezze or you fancy trying their mega signature sharing platter of shish, döner, kebabs and ribs, this gem has got just the thing.
Shop Local At Walthamstow Market
Located in the centre of all the action is Walthamstow Market. A 350-strong collection of stalls spanning 1 km, the outdoor bazaar runs pretty much every day of the week, transforming into a farmers' market come Sunday. Head here on Saturday if you want to see it at its finest; with fruit and veg traders interspersed among hot food vendors, antique sellers and clothing stands.
See Some Art At William Morris Gallery
Searching for things to do in Walthamstow? Arguably the town's most popular attraction, the William Morris Gallery is serving up a hefty dose of culture. Previously home to the 19th century designer, writer and social activist, this Georgian building showcases a number of Morris' works. It's also got collections from other artists, a beautiful garden and a tea room - everything you need for a fun day out.
Share A Bottle At Forest Wines
An intimate wine haunt and bottle shop, Forest Wines has got your date night needs covered. Along with a vast selection of natural and biodynamic bottles - all available to take home - the spot whips up a seasonally changing menu of small plates for you and your boo to nibble on throughout the evening.
Get Your G&Ts At Mother's Ruin Gin Distillery
Trade in your supermarket sips for award-winning spirits at Mother's Ruin Gin Distillery. Nestled among the old factories of the Ravenswood Industrial Estate, the Gin Palace is pouring up a range of fruity alcohols - from damson gin and rhubarb vodka to bitter orange rum - created from homegrown and locally foraged produce.
Like what you see? Discover more places around the area in our pick of the best restaurants in Walthamstow here.