Brick Lane

 

London’s Brick Lane runs from Whitechapel to Bethnal Green and is one of East London’s best spots for street food, vintage shops and street art. The name is thought to come from the brick and tile manufactures who set up here in the 15^th Century. But by the 17th Century the area became famous for its breweries, the original one being The Black Eagle Brewery, opened by the Truman family behind Truman’s Brewery. In the same century Huguenots fleeing France came to live here. They were followed by Jewish and then Irish immigrants, and most recently by the Bangladeshi community whose famous restaurants have helped give the area the name of Banglatown.

Brick Lane’s market and vibrant culture of second-hand and other arty shops shops draws millions of visitors. During lockdown the shops have had to close, but the street food stalls and outdoor market remains open every weekend. Sunday is the busiest day.