West Ham is a historic district in the London Borough of Newham, east London. The settlement has medieval origins and developed substantially during the Industrial Revolution as factories, railways and docks expanded across the East End. The area experienced major redevelopment during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, particularly following the 2012 Olympic Games, while retaining a strong local identity and multicultural character.
West Ham: Historical sights and information
Facts about West Ham
- Latitude:
- 51.534957
- Longitude:
- 0.011092
- GPS Coordinates:
- 51°32' N, 00°01' E
The historical and tourist importance of the district
West Ham Park is one of the district's principal green spaces, with landscaped gardens, mature trees and recreational areas. The historic St Mary's Church provides an important connection with the medieval settlement, while nearby Stratford and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park contain major sporting and cultural attractions. The London Stadium, London Aquatics Centre and ArcelorMittal Orbit are all within easy reach. The River Lea and surrounding waterways provide walking and cycling routes through the regenerated landscape.
Food, shopping and when to visit
West Ham has a diverse selection of cafés, restaurants, takeaways, pubs and independent shops, with South Asian, Caribbean, African, Turkish, Middle Eastern and British cuisines particularly well represented. Stratford's Westfield shopping centre provides extensive additional shopping and dining facilities. Late spring through early autumn is ideal for exploring West Ham Park and the Olympic Park, while sporting events, cultural venues and restaurants provide year-round activity.
Locations & Tours
Discover famous landmarks, historical sites and tourist attractions in West Ham.