Nestled in the heart of East London, West Ham is a neighbourhood often overlooked but rich in history, culture, and local charm. Once a powerhouse of London's industrial revolution, today West Ham offers a unique blend of historical landmarks, modern attractions, a vibrant community spirit and a more affordable housing market.

Newham is one of London's most affordable borough

Newham stands out as one of London's more affordable boroughs for property purchases. House prices in Newham are generally lower compared to many other areas in the capital, making it an attractive option for buyers with tighter budgets.

First-time buyers, in particular, often find Newham's property market more accessible due to its comparatively lower entry prices. The borough offers better value in terms of space, with buyers typically able to afford larger properties for their money than in more central London locations. However, it's important to note that while Newham remains relatively affordable in the context of London's property market, prices have been on an upward trend. This increase is partly due to ongoing regeneration projects and improved transport links, which have boosted the area's appeal. Despite these rising costs, Newham still presents a more budget-friendly option for those looking to buy in London, especially when compared to the city's more expensive boroughs.

The average property price in Newham is 16% below the average property price in London. This means that the East London Borough offers affordable housing without having to compromise on location.

Newham benefits from great connectivity

Newham boasts excellent connectivity, benefiting from a diverse network of transport links that make it easily accessible to other parts of London and beyond. The borough is served by multiple Underground lines, including the District, Hammersmith & City, and Jubilee lines, providing quick access to central London. The Docklands Light Railway (DLR) also runs through Newham, connecting it to Canary Wharf and the City.

Overground services also improve connectivity, with stations like Stratford offering links to various parts of the capital. Newham is home to several major transport hubs, most notably Stratford station, which provides access to high-speed rail services, including the Elizabeth Line (Crossrail). This line significantly reduces travel times to central London, Heathrow Airport, and other key destinations. The borough also benefits from its proximity to London City Airport, making international travel convenient for residents. For cyclists, there are several dedicated cycle routes, including parts of the Cycle Superhighway network.

Get to know the local sports history

For football fans, West Ham is synonymous with West Ham United Football Club. Until 2016, the club's home was the iconic Boleyn Ground, also known as Upton Park. While the stadium has since been redeveloped, its legacy lives on in the hearts of local fans. Today, you can catch the Hammers in action at their new home, the impressive London Stadium in nearby Stratford, originally built for the 2012 Olympics.

Explore Newham's green spaces and parks

Despite its urban setting, Newham offers a surprising amount of green spaces and parks, providing residents with space for fun, relaxation, and connection with nature. The borough's crown jewel is Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, created for the 2012 Olympics. This modern park features beautifully landscaped gardens, walking and cycling paths, and world-class sporting facilities.

West Ham Park, the largest park in the borough, offers 77 acres of open space with ornamental gardens, a wildlife area, and sports facilities. Beckton District Park provides a mix of formal gardens and natural woodland, while Central Park in East Ham is known for its lake and historic features. The Greenway, a raised footpath and cycleway, offers a unique green corridor through the borough. Newham also boasts several smaller local parks and gardens scattered throughout its neighbourhoods, such as Plashet Park and Priory Park. Along the River Thames, the Royal Docks area includes several waterside green spaces and walkways. These diverse green spaces not only enhance the quality of life for Newham residents but also contribute to the borough's biodiversity and environmental sustainability efforts.

Take a stroll along the greenery Newham has to offer

What are the must-see things in Newham?

Newham offers a diverse array of entertainment options to cater to various interests and age groups. The iconic London Stadium, originally built for the 2012 Olympics, now hosts major sporting events and concerts, drawing crowds from across the city.

For shopping and leisure, Westfield Stratford City, one of Europe's largest urban shopping centres, provides a mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, including a multi-screen cinema. The ExCeL London Exhibition Centre hosts a variety of events, from trade shows to consumer exhibitions.

History buffs should make a stop at West Ham Parish Church, also known as All Saints Church. This Grade I listed building dates back to the 12th century and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets.

Culture seekers can explore the area's history at the Museum of London Docklands. The ArcelorMittal Orbit, the UK's tallest sculpture, offers not only spectacular views but also features the world's longest tunnel slide for thrill-seekers. Water sports enthusiasts can partake in activities at the Lee Valley VeloPark or the London Aquatics Centre. For a unique experience, visitors can take a ride on the Emirates Air Line cable car, offering panoramic views of the London skyline.

The vibrant local food scene, particularly around Green Street and Stratford, showcases the borough's multicultural heritage with a wide range of international cuisines. Numerous community events, local markets, and festivals throughout the year add to Newham's lively entertainment scene, ensuring there's always something exciting happening in the borough.

Spend the perfect Sunday in Newham

For a taste of local culture, head to the Theatre Royal Stratford East. This historic venue has been entertaining audiences since 1884 and continues to showcase a diverse range of performances. Families with young children will love the Discover Children's Story Centre, an interactive museum dedicated to storytelling and imagination.

When hunger strikes, West Ham doesn't disappoint. The area boasts a diverse culinary scene reflecting its multicultural heritage. From traditional East End pie and mash shops to trendy cafes and international cuisines, there's something to satisfy every palate. Don't forget to round off your meal with a pint at one of the local pubs, where you can soak up the authentic East End atmosphere.

The community spirit in West Ham truly comes alive on match days when the streets are awash with claret and blue as fans make their way to the stadium. But it's not all about football – local markets and community events throughout the year offer a glimpse into the area's vibrant social fabric.

Looking to the future, West Ham continues to evolve. The legacy of the 2012 Olympics has brought significant regeneration to the area, with new residential developments, improved infrastructure, and the transformation of the Olympic Park into a thriving public space.

Finding your dream home in Newham

Conveniently located just minutes from West Ham station, with access to three tube lines, National Rail, and the DLR, our upcoming homes at West Ham Village offer the best of the area. Our studio, 1 and 2-bedroom Shared Ownership apartments benefit from unparalleled connectivity to London and beyond. Alongside its residential offerings, West Ham Village will also have ample commercial spaces for independent businesses, a new school and a community centre, making it a vibrant and dynamic neighbourhood in a prime Zone 2 location. Don't forget to register your interest for our West Ham Village homes launching autumn 2024.