Guide to Leyton

Time Out named Leyton one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world in 2024, and it’s easy to see why.

Just one stop from Stratford by tube, 15 mins from Bank, 20 from Canary Wharf and 25 from Oxford Circus, Leyton is the ideal choice for busy Londoners looking for a swift commute during the week and a vibrant, exciting neighbourhood to enjoy on the weekends. 

Its Edwardian and Victorian terraces and maisonettes are popular with professionals, couples, and young families—many of whom have been drawn east from happening places like Hackney in search of a little more space without having to compromise on the creative community spirit they love. 

Leyton is home to some of East London’s best places to eat and drink: from coffees at Tamping Grounds or Unity Cafe; to breakfast, cake and street food at Deeney’s or dinner at The Filly Brook or Figo; to the wonderful collection of independent shops and cafes on Francis Road, including Yardarm, Phlox Books and Edie Rose florists. There’s also a fine group of pubs including William the Fourth, The Leyton Engineer, The Heathcote & Star, The Northcote, and The Coach and Horses.

If you’re searching for property, you’ll find plenty of beautiful Edwardian terraces throughout Leyton. Particular hotspots are Lyndhurst Drive, Forest Drive, Fletcher Lane, the Barclay Roads (also known as the Barclay Estate) and the streets just off Church Road. 

Leyton is also home to purpose-built Victorian maisonettes, known locally as “Abrahams flats” because they were built by the Abrahams Trust in the late Victorian and Edwardian era. These fabulous properties, found in the streets around Francis Road, are always in demand. 

There are plenty of schools rated ‘Good’ and above by Ofsted. Good local primaries include Downsell, Colegrave, Dawlish, Mayville and St Joseph’s Catholic. Outstanding primaries include Riverley, Newport and Barclay. Local secondaries include Norlington, Lammas, George Mitchell, Connaught School for Girls and Leyton Sixth Form College.