The Landmarks of Tower Hamlets: A Wander Through the Borough with Alexander JLO’s Property Partner, Matt Johnson

Hello, fellow explorers! It’s Matt Johnson here, your trusty property partner from Alexander JLO Solicitors. Today, we’re embarking on a grand adventure through Tower Hamlets—an area brimming with history, culture and a unique flair that will keep you on your toes (or at least keep you entertained) and a Borough we have been proud to call home for fifty years. So grab your walking shoes, let’s prepare for a leisurely trot through some landmarks, and maybe even drop a few giggles along the way!

1. The Tower of London: The Not-So-Secret Secret

First stop on our landmark tour: the infamous Tower of London. Now, I know what you’re thinking—what can I say that hasn’t already been said about this iconic fortress? It’s a castle! It’s got a bloody history! And it’s home to the Crown Jewels, which are shinier than a raven’s eyes on a bag of chips. This place is a must-see, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the Beefeaters. They’re the only people who can pull off that flashy uniform without looking like they’re off to a fancy dress party.

2. Tower Bridge: That Other Famous Bridge

Next up is Tower Bridge, which is often mistaken for London Bridge—let’s not confuse the two. This stunning drawbridge has been turning heads since it opened in 1894, and trust me, it deserves every bit of admiration it gets. With its majestic towers and beautiful Victorian Gothic style, it’s a perfect spot for a selfie (or as the kids call it, a ‘self-portrait’). Don’t forget to look down as you stroll across; you’ll be walking on glass at one point. And if you happen to drop your ice cream, just remember: the view is worth any lost confections!

3. Canary Wharf: Where Business Meets Magic

Now let’s glide over to Canary Wharf, where the skyscrapers reach the heavens and the suits are sharper than your grandad’s best chisel. This is London’s bustling financial district, home to some of the tallest buildings in the UK. If you look around, you might just spot a banker running past with a briefcase full of money and a coffee cup in hand—because nothing says ‘I’m serious about work’ like a caffeine fix! Grab a quick latte at one of the nearby cafés and indulge in some serious people-watching. Pro tip: if you can’t find a seat, just look for the IT crowd—they’ll most likely be holed up in a corner with their laptops, oblivious to the world around them.

4. Victoria Park: The Green Heart of Tower Hamlets

Moving on to an oasis in the concrete jungle, we arrive at Victoria Park. This lovely patch of green is perfect for a leisurely stroll, a cheeky picnic or perhaps some intense frisbee throwing. With its picturesque lakes and sprawling gardens, you’ll forget you’re in the middle of London. Keep an eye out for the geese—these feathered creatures think they own the place and are not afraid to assert their authority. If you challenge one to a staring contest, prepare to be outmatched; they always win.

5. Brick Lane: A Foodie Wonderland

No visit to Tower Hamlets would be complete without a detour down Brick Lane, the bustling street renowned for its fabulous food scene. As soon as you step foot on this vibrant lane, the aroma of spices and baked goods will wrap around you like a warm hug from a long-lost friend. Try a bagel from Brick Lane Bagel Bake (open every minute if every day) or let your taste buds go wild with a curry from one of the colourful restaurants. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not embark on a street food tour? Just don’t blame me if you end up rolling home afterwards!

6. The Museum of London Docklands: An Educational Throwback

Now, let’s blend a bit of history with our jaunt by visiting the Museum of London Docklands. Housed in a former warehouse, this place is a treasure trove of stories from the city’s maritime past. You’ll encounter exhibits that will give you the scoop on the history of trade and the thriving docks. Plus, they often have family-friendly activities—who doesn’t want to learn about history while making crafts? Just try to avoid pretending that you’re the captain of a ship; that might lead to some awkward interactions with museum staff!

7. Mudchute Farm: The Urban Countryside

As our day winds down, let’s pop over to Mudchute Farm, a delightful slice of countryside in the middle of the city. The farm is a community project, complete with adorable animals, bountiful gardens and a quaint café that could make even a grumpy grouch crack a smile. If you’re lucky, you may witness a goat trying to headbutt its way through the fence—truly a hilarious sight! It’s a great place to take the kids—or bring your inner child, because let’s face it, who wouldn’t enjoy a day with fluffy animals?

Conclusion: The End of Our Adventure (For Now)

And just like that, we’ve made our way through some of Tower Hamlets’ most notable landmarks. From historical fortresses to vibrant streets filled with food and laughter, there’s something here for everyone. I hope you’ve enjoyed this whimsical journey as much as I have!

So whether you’re a local or just passing through, make sure to take the time to explore this vibrant borough. Go on—put on those walking shoes, and dive headfirst into the colourful tapestry that is Tower Hamlets. Who knows what other unexpected treasures you’ll find along the way? Until next time, happy wandering!

If you are looking for a first rate conveyancing service why not give one of Alexander JLO’s specialist property lawyers a call on 020 7537 7000, click on the get a quote button or email quote@london-law.co.uk for a free, no-obligation quotation? Come and see what we can do for you.

This blog was prepared by Alexander JLO’s property partner Matt Johnson on 2025 and is correct at the date of publication. Matt has many years of experience of dealing with property work and specialises in new build and shared ownership properties.  His profile on the independent Review Solicitor website and be found here