Leyton is the lesser-known East London neighborhood that locals love to boast about. Conveniently located just one stop on the Central Line from Stratford, it’s within walking distance to Walthamstow, Wanstead, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and Hackney Wick. The area borders Leytonstone and Lea Bridge, both of which feature impressive cafes, restaurants, indie shops, and green spaces to explore.
In recent years, Leyton has transformed significantly, with new independent businesses emerging regularly. This is a delight for residents who stay informed through local Instagram accounts. There are three primary hubs in Leyton: the bustling high street, Leyton Midland, and Francis Road. Each area offers its charm and unique spots for food and leisure.
Guide to a Perfect Saturday in Leyton
8am: Morning Coffee at Perky Blenders
Just a stone’s throw from Leyton Midland, Perky Blenders has been serving up excellent coffee since opening in 2017. This family-run business began as a humble coffee cart and now boasts multiple locations across London. Order a perfectly-poured flat white and treat yourself to a bag of their popular forest blend beans.
9:30am: Reformer Pilates at Pause
After coffee, walk eight minutes to Pause, a studio known for its welcoming atmosphere and range of classes, including yoga, pilates, and Barre. The instructors are friendly and can guide newcomers on how to use the reformer beds effectively.
10:45am: Pastries at Yardarm
Following your exercise, enjoy a treat at Yardarm, a wine, beer, and provisions shop that has become a cornerstone on Francis Road. They stock an impressive selection of artisan goods. Don’t forget to grab a pastry from nearby Chocolatine Bakery as you enjoy a morning in the sun.
11:30am: Groceries from Marmelo
Next, head to Marmelo, a beloved general store offering fresh, seasonal produce and kitchen staples. It’s the perfect spot for picking up ingredients for your weekend meals.
1pm: Lunch at Deeney’s
If you haven’t tried Deeney’s legendary haggis toasties, you’re missing out. This eatery has transitioned from a market stall to a popular café on Leyton High Street. In addition to their famous toasties, other dining options like Bread & Oregano offer budget-friendly meals that are worth trying.
3pm: Retail Therapy on Francis Road
Francis Road is a shopping haven filled with independent retailers. Music lovers can browse at Dreamhouse Records, while flower enthusiasts will appreciate Edie Rose for their beautiful arrangements. For unique gifts, Plox Books is a warm, inviting place to explore.
6pm: Happy Hour at Local Breweries
As the evening approaches, enjoy happy hour at one of Leyton’s vibrant pubs or breweries. Gravity Well’s taproom is a great option for pints of unique craft beers, while nearby pop-up events often showcase exciting culinary delights.
8pm: Dinner at Loop
For dinner, visit Loop, a restaurant that features guest chefs and innovative menus. Their dishes, like lasagna bianca with asparagus, showcase a modern take on classic cuisine.
10pm: Nightcap at Leyton Calling
Wrap up your Saturday at Leyton Calling, a tiki-inspired bar known for its creative cocktails. The inviting ambiance and well-crafted drinks make it a perfect spot to relax and reflect on a wonderful day in Leyton.
