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Bow is a historic slice of the East End, a working-class heartland with a proud radical past that today mixes Victorian terraces, a famous street market and the green expanse of Victoria Park. Off the tourist trail, it offers an authentic taste of east London life.
Where is Bow and how to get there
Bow lies in east London between Bethnal Green and Stratford. It is served by Bow Road and Bow Church stations on the District, Hammersmith & City and DLR lines, with Mile End close by.
Markets, history and the park
The area’s spine is the Roman Road Market, a long-running East End street market of food, fashion and household goods. Bow has a notable place in labour history as the site of the 1888 Matchgirls’ Strike at the Bryant & May factory, now the converted flats of the Bow Quarter. To the north lies Victoria Park, one of London’s finest and oldest public parks, and the waterways of the River Lea and the Olympic Park.
Eating and drinking
Bow is a neighbourhood of local caffs, pubs and market stalls rather than destination dining, with the food scenes of Victoria Park and neighbouring Hackney a short walk away. It rewards those who like their London real and unpolished.
Good to know
What is Bow known for?
Bow is known for its East End heritage, its Roman Road street market and its proximity to Victoria Park, as well as its place in labour history as the scene of the 1888 Matchgirls’ Strike. It is a genuine, residential part of east London rather than a tourist quarter.
Where to go next
Head to Bethnal Green, Hackney or Stratford, or browse all our London neighbourhood guides.
