Anna has lived in London for four years and recently settled in Whitechapel. She has just completed a Master’s in Magazine Journalism and writes for a local publication. Having experienced both sides of the city during her studies, she’s developed a soft spot for the east. Here, Anna shares her favourite ways to enjoy east London on a budget.

1. Columbia Road Flower Market

If you can’t resist a good browse, Columbia Road Flower Market is a Sunday morning must. The street fills with stalls selling everything from colourful blooms to leafy houseplants, with independent shops and cafés to explore along the way. It’s a classic for a reason.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to The Virgin Queen pub for a delicious roast dinner from just £9.

2. Museum of the Home

I first wandered into Museum of the Home to fill an hour and couldn’t believe it had been sitting there all this time without me knowing about it. Step back 400 years through reconstructed period rooms and discover how our homes have changed over the centuries. It’s literally opposite Hoxton Overground and I recommend this place to anyone passing!

3. Stepney City Farm

Who says you need to leave London for a bit of countryside? Stepney City Farm is a community-run farm where you can meet the animals, explore the gardens and get a glimpse of urban farming in action. Don’t forget to swing by the onsite cafe, Stepney’s, for a coffee and a slice of cake, or one of its delicious seasonal dinners made with ingredients from the farm.

It’s not the only city farm in east London worth visiting – Hackney City Farm and Spitalfields City Farm are equally strong contenders!

4. Dalston Eastern Curve Garden

Tucked away behind Dalston Junction, this leafy community garden feels a world away from the busy streets outside. Built on a former railway line, it’s filled with plants, winding paths and cosy corners to sit and unwind. While entry is free, you can grab a hot drink, freshly baked cake or something stronger from the café, which serves delicious east London-made produce.

5. Broadway Market 

This is my favourite spot for a weekend wander, with independent shops, food stalls and plenty of people-watching opportunities. Stroll along and soak up the atmosphere of the market, before heading over to London Fields for a lazy afternoon lounging on the grass.

6. London Museum Docklands

As a DLR devotee, I recently decided to make better use of the line and stumbled upon London Museum Docklands. Housed in a former warehouse on West India Quay, it offers a free dose of east London history. Explore the recreated Victorian street of Sailortown and learn about the docks’ complex history. It’s a brilliant rainy-day option without spending a penny.

7. Regent’s Canal

Take a wander along Regent’s Canal, where colourful narrowboats and leafy towpaths make for a lovely escape from the city streets. Start in Haggerston and head towards Victoria Park, or keep going all the way to Limehouse Basin where the canal meets the Thames. Keep an eye out for wildlife, pack a snack and bring a friend. Think of it as your own free tour of east London.

8. V&A East Storehouse

If you’re after a slightly different kind of museum outing, the V&A East Storehouse in Stratford is for you. Browse thousands of objects from the V&A’s vast collection, housed in a working museum store. From fashion to furniture, it’s a chance to go behind the scenes and see things you might not find in your typical gallery. You can even book a free Order an Object appointment to get a closer look at something from the collection.

9. Hackney Marshes

Sometimes you just need a big patch of green. Hackney Marshes is perfect for stretching your legs, with miles of walking routes winding alongside the River Lea and through the surrounding woods and wetlands. Pack a picnic, keep an eye out for birds and see where the paths take you. Just don’t forget to wear your wellies if it’s been raining!