Lifestyle magazine Muddy Stilettos releases an annual list of the best places to live in the country and its 2027 edition includes one location in east London – Walthamstow.
Explaining Walthamstow’s inclusion, the 2027 guide says: “North of the river yet with some affordable pockets of property, a buzzy café culture and a scattering of great schools, this under-the-radar borough’s got it going on.
“Old meets new in this buzzy corner of east London, where Victorian terraces, traditional markets and proper greasy spoons rub shoulders with cool bars, independent boutiques, creative studios and destination restaurants.
Walthamstow village is home to a host of independent businesses (Image: Jenny Selby)
“From the village charm of Walthamstow Village to Wood Street’s treasure trove of indies and Blackhorse Lane’s creative quarter, E17 has plenty of personality. Add excellent transport links, good schools, thriving community projects and the glorious Walthamstow Wetlands, and it’s easy to see why families and young professionals are falling for the area.”
Walthamstow’s food and drink scene received particular praise, with Muddy Stilettos highlighting Taro Walthamstow, Dudley’s and Rhythm Kitchen E17 as top options for a bit to eat.
It also pointed readers towards Supper Club Tube, where diners can eat a three-course meal inside a disused Tube carriage.
Shopping and cultural attractions also featured prominently.
Walthamstow’s green spaces were highlighted as a point of interest (Image: NQ)
The guide mentions God’s Own Junkyard and the 30-plus independent stores at Wood Street Indoor Market, while describing Walthamstow’s outdoor market as Europe’s longest – at one kilometre long.
Green space was another factor in the area’s appeal, according to Muddy Stilettos.
The guide highlights Walthamstow Wetlands and Walthamstow’s proximity to Epping Forest, offering residents access to reservoirs, wildlife and woodland.
The area’s community and cultural offerings are also praised, including The Mill and Big Penny Social, while the William Morris Gallery is highlighted as the former home of designer William Morris.
Soho Theatre Walthamstow in Hoe Street – “a beautifully restored 960-seat venue attracting big-name comedians, theatre, cabaret and live music” – was also picked out by Muddy Stilettos.
The William Morris Gallery (Image: NQ)
Families were pointed towards several schools in and around the area, while the guide said Walthamstow was “loved by families, thanks to plenty of spacious terraced housing and some outstanding schools, yet still a coveted place to live if you’re young, free and single.”
According to figures quoted by Muddy Stilettos, the overall average property price in Walthamstow sits at £596,763, with flats averaging £431,352 and Victorian terraced houses £752,160.
Transport links also received praise including the Victoria line, saying Oxford Circus can be reached in around 20 minutes, while an overground train can take passengers to Liverpool Street in around 12 minutes.
Summing up the area’s appeal, Muddy Stilettos declared: “See, we told you Walthamstow was happening.”