Things To Do in Aldgate

The East London neighborhood of Aldgate has a fascinating history that is defined both by the poverty of the Victorian era and by the opulence of the city’s main financial hub. A much sought-after destination for tourists and business travelers thanks to its handy transport links and close proximity to the City of London, there is also plenty of things to see and do that can entertain visitors in their downtime.

Here are the top 5 attractions in Aldgate we recommend to experience the best of the neighborhood:

 

  • Heron Tower

 

The third tallest building in London, Heron Tower was completed in 2011 and boasts some of the most spectacular views of the city available, while also offering various dining options to visitors. It is impossible to miss this building when walking through town, with the tower’s silhouette dominating the skyline of London’s financial district.

 

  • The Gherkin

 

Another iconic building in the City of London, the Gherkin’s distinctive shape makes it instantly recognizable from anywhere in the area. Why not head to the top level on the 40th floor and sip coffee while enjoying a 360-degree view of London? A great way of feeling on top of the world.

 

  • Sky Garden

 

This famous enlarged glass dome of Fenchurch Street is dedicated to three floors of exquisitely landscaped public gardens, not to mention some of London’s most exclusive social spaces, such as observation decks and an open-air terrace. Within easy walking distance of Aldgate station, Sky Garden also boasts a number of excellent restaurants for visitors to enjoy, among them Fenchurch Seafood Bar & Grill, Sky Pod Bar, and Darwin Brasserie.

 

  • Tower of London

 

An iconic London attraction, the Norman castle is known as the Tower of London was first founded by William The Conqueror in 1078 and has existed as a prison and royal palace in its long history. Visitors can explore the inside and out of the White Tower, walls and other wings of the fortress, and the Tower also lies in close proximity to Tower Bridge, itself another of the city’s famous historic attractions.

 

  • Monument

 

The Monument to the Great Fire of London, known simply as the Monument, is a 200-foot Doric column that stands close to the spot in Pudding Lane where the Great Fire started in 1666. A Grade I listed monument, the column features a gilded urn of fire at its summit and a viewing platform 311 steps up, commanding excellent views over the city and river.

Museums in Aldgate

Aldgate is not just known as a travel and financial hub however: there is also plenty of history to discover in its local museums. Sometimes the best part about visiting a new city is getting to know the story behind it: the social progress and industrial development that makes a place what it is today. Museums frequently top the itineraries of tourists and new residents, and there are plenty in Aldgate that delivers on all the fun and engagement for which these cultural centers are renowned.

Here is a list of our top 5 museums and galleries in Aldgate:

 

  • Whitechapel Gallery

 

Opened in 1901, this public art gallery is one of the most impressive in the country and stands as a symbol of East London’s collective creative spirit. Hosting the works of primarily contemporary artists, both local and international, the gallery also organizes retrospective exhibitions and community events and was the first gallery in England to display the works of Pollock and Picasso to the public. Admission is free, but visitors are advised to leave a small donation.

 

  • Jack The Ripper Museum

 

The unsolved Jack The Ripper murders come to life in this Cable Street museum. Featuring original artifacts and waxwork recreations of the crime scenes, the museum carefully chronicles the events of the Ripper case and invites visitors to lend their own theories as to the identity of the notorious killer. A spooky but entertaining delve into London history, the Jack The Ripper Museum is a great attraction to add to the itinerary. Admission costs £10 for adults and £5 for children.

 

  • Bank of England Museum

 

Located within the historic institution itself, the Bank of England Museum on Bartholomew Lane displays a wide-ranging collection of exhibits detailing the history of the bank, from its foundation in 1694 to its modern workings. The displays include a reconstruction of a late 18th-century office, collections of notes, coins, books and documents, and a genuine gold bar that can be handled from within its Perspex box. Admission is free, making this museum a convenient and affordable stop if visitors are intending to explore the City’s financial district.

 

  • The Royal London Hospital Museum

 

The Royal London Hospital (formerly just the London Hospital) has cared for the people of East London since the mid 18th century, a storied past which is exhibited in the archives and collections of its associated museum. Visitors can find out about the hospital’s role in the development of modern medicine, as well as peruse material related to the famous case of Joseph Merrick, otherwise known as The Elephant Man. Entry is free, although donations are encouraged to help preserve the museum’s collection.

 

  • Guildhall Art Gallery

 

The Guildhall Art Gallery houses the extensive art collection of the City of London. Built on the site of London’s Roman amphitheater, the gallery was constructed in a semi-gothic style intended to be sympathetic to the original historic Guildhall, to which the gallery is internally connected. Among the 4,000 items currently on display within the building is the famous ‘Defeat of the Floating Batteries at Gibraltar’ by John Singleton Copley. Admission is free to all visitors, making trips here an inexpensive time killer.

Shopping in Aldgate

Aldgate and the surrounding area offer an incredibly broad range of shops for visitors to explore in their downtime. From the numerous independent stores dotted around the back roads to the global brands littered along the high street, there are plenty of options for tourists and new residents to explore. Where Aldgate truly shines, however, is in its markets. Petticoat Lane Market, for example, is a genuine piece of London history, as well as a great place to find quirky, independent fashion boutiques, while Brick Lane market offers everything from bespoke furniture to arts and crafts. Whatever is on the list, there will be somewhere to find it.

Here are the best places to shop in Aldgate we would recommend:

 

  • The Arcade

 

Hidden around the back of Liverpool Street Station, The Arcade epitomizes lunchtime in the City. With a host of cafes, kiosks, cobbler stalls and more, this is always a bustling destination at which to browse local wares and enjoy a coffee on the way.

 

  • Leadenhall Market

 

One of the oldest covered markets in London, Leadenhall Market dates back to the 14th century and is located in the historic center of the city’s financial district. The market is typically open weekdays from 10 am to 6 pm, and primarily sells fresh food and flowers. Independent butchers, cheesemongers, and florists manage stalls here, with a number of commercial retailers also located in the market.

 

  • Broadgate Circle

 

Finally opened after an extended construction period, Broadgate Circle offers craft beer, botanical cocktails, cutting-edge workout spaces, and street food right next to Liverpool Street station. Great for grabbing a bite to eat from the Japanese, Spanish and Italian menus available, the Circle is also furnished with a stunning amphitheater and several upper-level walkways with views down on the space. Plus in winter, space is turned into a skating rink, becoming a veritable local wonderland.

 

  • One New Change

 

One New Change is a major office and retail development near Aldgate, consisting of 560,000 square feet of floor space (both offices and retail space), and is the primary shopping center in the City of London. Sixty shops and restaurants are located within the expansive mall, including a large number of high street retailers, which is open seven days a week, unusual for the City. Pay a visit to H&M or Topshop for clothing, or perhaps to Barbecoa, the unique barbecue restaurant, and butcher jointly run by Jamie Oliver and Adam Perry-Lang, for some truly succulent cuisine.

 

  • Boxpark Shoreditch

 

Shoreditch’s famous pop-up mall, Boxpark fuses together the concepts of modern street food and the pairing of local and global brands to create a unique shopping and dining destination. Entirely constructed out of refitted shipping containers, Boxpark boasts numerous bars, eateries, lifestyle and clothing stores within its units, and is a perfect embodiment of the enterprising Shoreditch hipster.

Food and Drink in Aldgate

Exploring the varied cuisine on offer is one of the many perks of visiting a new city. London’s Aldgate district is home to a variety of bars and restaurants that will showcase a great array of tastes and flavors with every mouthful. From modern British treats to continental and Oriental cuisine, the area really does deliver for all palates.

Here are our top 5 best places for food and drink in Aldgate:

 

  • Treves & Hyde

 

A restaurant and coffee bar, Treves & Hyde uses the freshest seasonal ingredients in all its servings, sourced from caring local farmers. Continental-inspired dishes are served in a modern setting with outdoor seating options, and there are breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch menus all available.

Address: 15/17 Leman St, Whitechapel, London, E1 8EN

 

  • The Ten Bells

 

A classic British pub serving beer, wine, and cocktails, The Ten Bells is also an essential stop on any Jack The Ripper walk due to its association with victims Annie Chapman and Mary Kelly. Inject a little notoriety into that gastropub vibe with an infamous history and drinks across three floors.

Address: 84 Commercial St, Spitalfields, London, E1 6LY

 

  • VQ Aldgate

 

This 60 cover restaurant and 30 cover bar offer a stylish and contemporary design from its ground floor location in the four-star Dorsett City Hotel. Service is available for 24-hour eating and drinking, and there’s also a large outdoor seating area for those sunny summer days.

Address: Ground Floor Dorsett City Hotel, Aldgate High St, London, EC3N 1AH

 

  • Satyrio

 

A stylish fine-dining Italian restaurant and wine boutique, all of Satyrio’s meals use only the best fresh ingredients from gourmet producers. Seasonal menus and a superb wine list made up of curated Old and New World Tastes complete the experience, and the restaurant also plays host to various art exhibitions, live music and wine tastings throughout the year.

Address: 49 Aldgate High St, London, EC3N 1AL

 

  • Brick Lane

 

Brick Lane is a famous street in the East End of London that runs from Spitalfields to Swanfield Street in Bethnal Green. Known for its many curry houses and street markets, Brick Lane is today the heart of the Bangladeshi community in London and represents a history of successive communities of immigrants who settled into the area. Check out Aladin Indian Restaurant, Cinnamon Brick Lane and Eastern Eye Balti House for some of the best Indian food in the area.

Churches and Cathedrals in Aldgate

Despite the more secular societies in which many of us reside today, the stunning historic architecture of many old churches and cathedrals still attracts thousands of visitors every year. Exploring the places of worship around Aldgate is a great way of whiling away a few loose hours, and many of them can be easily viewed on many local walking tours of London.

For those interested in the architecture of religion, here are some of the most notable churches in the Aldgate area:

 

  • The Bevis Marks Synagogue

 

Officially known as Qahal Kadosh Sha'ar ha-Shamayim, the Bevish Marks Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the UK in continuous use. First built in 1701, the synagogue is affiliated with the city’s historic Spanish and Portuguese Jewish community, and is a Grade I listed building.

 

  • St. Botolph’s

 

St. Botolph’s of Aldgate is an 18th century Church of England parish church constructed in a unique style: the current building features stone quoins and window casings with an obelisk spire. Undergoing several reconstructions over the years, the earliest records of a church on the site date back to 1115, though the foundations may date back to well before the Norman invasion of 1066.

The East London neighborhood of Aldgate has a fascinating history that is defined both by the poverty of the Victorian era and by the opulence of the city’s main financial hub. A much sought-after destination for tourists and business travelers thanks to its handy transport links and close proximity to the City of London, there is also plenty of things to see and do that can entertain visitors in their downtime.

Here are the top 5 attractions in Aldgate we recommend to experience the best in the neighborhood:

 

  • Heron Tower

 

The third tallest building in London, Heron Tower was completed in 2011 and boasts some of the most spectacular views of the city available, while also offering various dining options to visitors. It is impossible to miss this building when walking through town, with the tower’s silhouette dominating the skyline of London’s financial district.

 

  • The Gherkin

 

Another iconic building in the City of London, the Gherkin’s distinctive shape makes it instantly recognizable from anywhere in the area. Why not head to the top level on the 40th floor and sip coffee while enjoying a 360-degree view of London? A great way of feeling on top of the world.

 

  • Sky Garden

 

This famous enlarged glass dome of Fenchurch Street is dedicated to three floors of exquisitely landscaped public gardens, not to mention some of London’s most exclusive social spaces, such as observation decks and an open-air terrace. Within easy walking distance of Aldgate station, Sky Garden also boasts a number of excellent restaurants for visitors to enjoy, among them Fenchurch Seafood Bar & Grill, Sky Pod Bar, and Darwin Brasserie.

 

  • Tower of London

 

An iconic London attraction, the Norman castle is known as the Tower of London was first founded by William The Conqueror in 1078 and has existed as a prison and royal palace in its long history. Visitors can explore the inside and out of the White Tower, walls and other wings of the fortress, and the Tower also lies in close proximity to Tower Bridge, itself another of the city’s famous historic attractions.

 

  • Monument

 

The Monument to the Great Fire of London, known simply as the Monument, is a 200-foot Doric column that stands close to the spot in Pudding Lane where the Great Fire started in 1666. A Grade I listed monument, the column features a gilded urn of fire at its summit and a viewing platform 311 steps up, commanding excellent views over the city and river.

Museums in Aldgate

Aldgate is not just known as a travel and financial hub however: there is also plenty of history to discover in its local museums. Sometimes the best part about visiting a new city is getting to know the story behind it: the social progress and industrial development that makes a place what it is today. Museums frequently top the itineraries of tourists and new residents, and there are plenty in Aldgate that delivers on all the fun and engagement for which these cultural centers are renowned.

Here is a list of our top 5 museums and galleries in Aldgate:

 

  • Whitechapel Gallery

 

Opened in 1901, this public art gallery is one of the most impressive in the country and stands as a symbol of East London’s collective creative spirit. Hosting the works of primarily contemporary artists, both local and international, the gallery also organizes retrospective exhibitions and community events and was the first gallery in England to display the works of Pollock and Picasso to the public. Admission is free, but visitors are advised to leave a small donation.

 

  • Jack The Ripper Museum

 

The unsolved Jack The Ripper murders come to life in this Cable Street museum. Featuring original artifacts and waxwork recreations of the crime scenes, the museum carefully chronicles the events of the Ripper case and invites visitors to lend their own theories as to the identity of the notorious killer. A spooky but entertaining delve into London history, the Jack The Ripper Museum is a great attraction to add to the itinerary. Admission costs £10 for adults and £5 for children.

 

  • Bank of England Museum

 

Located within the historic institution itself, the Bank of England Museum on Bartholomew Lane displays a wide-ranging collection of exhibits detailing the history of the bank, from its foundation in 1694 to its modern workings. The displays include a reconstruction of a late 18th-century office, collections of notes, coins, books and documents, and a genuine gold bar that can be handled from within its Perspex box. Admission is free, making this museum a convenient and affordable stop if visitors are intending to explore the City’s financial district.

 

  • The Royal London Hospital Museum

 

The Royal London Hospital (formerly just the London Hospital) has cared for the people of East London since the mid 18th century, a storied past which is exhibited in the archives and collections of its associated museum. Visitors can find out about the hospital’s role in the development of modern medicine, as well as peruse material related to the famous case of Joseph Merrick, otherwise known as The Elephant Man. Entry is free, although donations are encouraged to help preserve the museum’s collection.

 

  • Guildhall Art Gallery

 

The Guildhall Art Gallery houses the extensive art collection of the City of London. Built on the site of London’s Roman amphitheater, the gallery was constructed in a semi-gothic style intended to be sympathetic to the original historic Guildhall, to which the gallery is internally connected. Among the 4,000 items currently on display within the building is the famous ‘Defeat of the Floating Batteries at Gibraltar’ by John Singleton Copley. Admission is free to all visitors, making trips here an inexpensive time killer.

Shopping in Aldgate

Aldgate and the surrounding area offer an incredibly broad range of shops for visitors to explore in their downtime. From the numerous independent stores dotted around the back roads to the global brands littered along the high street, there are plenty of options for tourists and new residents to explore. Where Aldgate truly shines, however, is in its markets. Petticoat Lane Market, for example, is a genuine piece of London history, as well as a great place to find quirky, independent fashion boutiques, while Brick Lane market offers everything from bespoke furniture to arts and crafts. Whatever is on the list, there will be somewhere to find it.

Here are the best places to shop in Aldgate we would recommend:

 

  • The Arcade

 

Hidden around the back of Liverpool Street Station, The Arcade epitomizes lunchtime in the City. With a host of cafes, kiosks, cobbler stalls and more, this is always a bustling destination at which to browse local wares and enjoy a coffee on the way.

 

  • Leadenhall Market

 

One of the oldest covered markets in London, Leadenhall Market dates back to the 14th century and is located in the historic center of the city’s financial district. The market is typically open weekdays from 10 am to 6 pm, and primarily sells fresh food and flowers. Independent butchers, cheesemongers, and florists manage stalls here, with a number of commercial retailers also located in the market.

 

  • Broadgate Circle

 

Finally opened after an extended construction period, Broadgate Circle offers craft beer, botanical cocktails, cutting-edge workout spaces, and street food right next to Liverpool Street station. Great for grabbing a bite to eat from the Japanese, Spanish and Italian menus available, the Circle is also furnished with a stunning amphitheater and several upper-level walkways with views down on the space. Plus in winter, space is turned into a skating rink, becoming a veritable local wonderland.

 

  • One New Change

 

One New Change is a major office and retail development near Aldgate, consisting of 560,000 square feet of floor space (both offices and retail space), and is the primary shopping center in the City of London. Sixty shops and restaurants are located within the expansive mall, including a large number of high street retailers, which is open seven days a week, unusual for the City. Pay a visit to H&M or Topshop for clothing, or perhaps to Barbecoa, the unique barbecue restaurant, and butcher jointly run by Jamie Oliver and Adam Perry-Lang, for some truly succulent cuisine.

 

  • Boxpark Shoreditch

 

Shoreditch’s famous pop-up mall, Boxpark fuses together the concepts of modern street food and the pairing of local and global brands to create a unique shopping and dining destination. Entirely constructed out of refitted shipping containers, Boxpark boasts numerous bars, eateries, lifestyle and clothing stores within its units, and is a perfect embodiment of the enterprising Shoreditch hipster.

Food and Drink in Aldgate

Exploring the varied cuisine on offer is one of the many perks of visiting a new city. London’s Aldgate district is home to a variety of bars and restaurants that will showcase a great array of tastes and flavors with every mouthful. From modern British treats to continental and Oriental cuisine, the area really does deliver for all palates.

Here are our top 5 best places for food and drink in Aldgate:

 

  • Treves & Hyde

 

A restaurant and coffee bar, Treves & Hyde uses the freshest seasonal ingredients in all its servings, sourced from caring local farmers. Continental-inspired dishes are served in a modern setting with outdoor seating options, and there are breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch menus all available.

Address: 15/17 Leman St, Whitechapel, London, E1 8EN

 

  • The Ten Bells

 

A classic British pub serving beer, wine, and cocktails, The Ten Bells is also an essential stop on any Jack The Ripper walk due to its association with victims Annie Chapman and Mary Kelly. Inject a little notoriety into that gastropub vibe with an infamous history and drinks across three floors.

Address: 84 Commercial St, Spitalfields, London, E1 6LY

 

  • VQ Aldgate

 

This 60 cover restaurant and 30 cover bar offer a stylish and contemporary design from its ground floor location in the four-star Dorsett City Hotel. Service is available for 24-hour eating and drinking, and there’s also a large outdoor seating area for those sunny summer days.

Address: Ground Floor Dorsett City Hotel, Aldgate High St, London, EC3N 1AH

 

  • Satyrio

 

A stylish fine-dining Italian restaurant and wine boutique, all of Satyrio’s meals use only the best fresh ingredients from gourmet producers. Seasonal menus and a superb wine list made up of curated Old and New World Tastes complete the experience, and the restaurant also plays host to various art exhibitions, live music and wine tastings throughout the year.

Address: 49 Aldgate High St, London, EC3N 1AL

 

  • Brick Lane

 

Brick Lane is a famous street in the East End of London that runs from Spitalfields to Swanfield Street in Bethnal Green. Known for its many curry houses and street markets, Brick Lane is today the heart of the Bangladeshi community in London, and represents a history of successive communities of immigrants who settled into the area. Check out Aladin Indian Restaurant, Cinnamon Brick Lane and Eastern Eye Balti House for some of the best Indian food in the area.

Churches and Cathedrals in Aldgate

Despite the more secular societies in which many of us reside today, the stunning historic architecture of many old churches and cathedrals still attracts thousands of visitors every year. Exploring the places of worship around Aldgate is a great way of whiling away a few loose hours, and many of them can be easily viewed on many local walking tours of London.

For those interested in the architecture of religion, here are some of the most notable churches in the Aldgate area:

 

  • The Bevis Marks Synagogue

 

Officially known as Qahal Kadosh Sha'ar ha-Shamayim, the Bevish Marks Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the UK in continuous use. First built in 1701, the synagogue is affiliated with the city’s historic Spanish and Portuguese Jewish community, and is a Grade I listed building.

 

  • St. Botolph’s

 

St. Botolph’s of Aldgate is an 18th century Church of England parish church constructed in a unique style: the current building features stone quoins and window casings with an obelisk spire. Undergoing several reconstructions over the years, the earliest records of a church on the site date back to 1115, though the foundations may date back to well before the Norman invasion of 1066.

The East London neighborhood of Aldgate has a fascinating history that is defined both by the poverty of the Victorian era and by the opulence of the city’s main financial hub. A much sought-after destination for tourists and business travelers thanks to its handy transport links and close proximity to the City of London, there is also plenty of things to see and do that can entertain visitors in their downtime.

Here are the top 5 attractions in Aldgate we recommend to experience the best of the neighborhood:

 

  • Heron Tower

 

The third tallest building in London, Heron Tower was completed in 2011 and boasts some of the most spectacular views of the city available, while also offering various dining options to visitors. It is impossible to miss this building when walking through town, with the tower’s silhouette dominating the skyline of London’s financial district.

 

  • The Gherkin

 

Another iconic building in the City of London, the Gherkin’s distinctive shape makes it instantly recognizable from anywhere in the area. Why not head to the top level on the 40th floor and sip coffee while enjoying a 360-degree view of London? A great way of feeling on top of the world.

 

  • Sky Garden

 

This famous enlarged glass dome of Fenchurch Street is dedicated to three floors of exquisitely landscaped public gardens, not to mention some of London’s most exclusive social spaces, such as observation decks and an open-air terrace. Within easy walking distance of Aldgate station, Sky Garden also boasts a number of excellent restaurants for visitors to enjoy, among them Fenchurch Seafood Bar & Grill, Sky Pod Bar, and Darwin Brasserie.

 

  • Tower of London

 

An iconic London attraction, the Norman castle is known as the Tower of London was first founded by William The Conqueror in 1078, and has existed as a prison and royal palace in its long history. Visitors can explore the inside and out of the White Tower, walls and other wings of the fortress, and the Tower also lies in close proximity to Tower Bridge, itself another of the city’s famous historic attractions.

 

  • Monument

 

The Monument to the Great Fire of London, known simply as the Monument, is a 200-foot Doric column that stands close to the spot in Pudding Lane where the Great Fire started in 1666. A Grade I listed monument, the column features a gilded urn of fire at its summit and a viewing platform 311 steps up, commanding excellent views over the city and river.

Museums in Aldgate

Aldgate is not just known as a travel and financial hub however: there is also plenty of history to discover in its local museums. Sometimes the best part about visiting a new city is getting to know the story behind it: the social progress and industrial development that makes a place what it is today. Museums frequently top the itineraries of tourists and new residents, and there are plenty in Aldgate that delivers on all the fun and engagement for which these cultural centers are renowned.

Here is a list of our top 5 museums and galleries in Aldgate:

 

  • Whitechapel Gallery

 

Opened in 1901, this public art gallery is one of the most impressive in the country and stands as a symbol of East London’s collective creative spirit. Hosting the works of primarily contemporary artists, both local and international, the gallery also organises retrospective exhibitions and community events and was the first gallery in England to display the works of Pollock and Picasso to the public. Admission is free, but visitors are advised to leave a small donation.

 

  • Jack The Ripper Museum

 

The unsolved Jack The Ripper murders come to life in this Cable Street museum. Featuring original artifacts and waxwork recreations of the crime scenes, the museum carefully chronicles the events of the Ripper case and invites visitors to lend their own theories as to the identity of the notorious killer. A spooky but entertaining delve into London history, the Jack The Ripper Museum is a great attraction to add to the itinerary. Admission costs £10 for adults and £5 for children.

 

  • Bank of England Museum

 

Located within the historic institution itself, the Bank of England Museum on Bartholomew Lane displays a wide-ranging collection of exhibits detailing the history of the bank, from its foundation in 1694 to its modern workings. The displays include a reconstruction of a late 18th-century office, collections of notes, coins, books and documents, and a genuine gold bar that can be handled from within its Perspex box. Admission is free, making this museum a convenient and affordable stop if visitors are intending to explore the City’s financial district.

 

  • The Royal London Hospital Museum

 

The Royal London Hospital (formerly just the London Hospital) has cared for the people of East London since the mid 18th century, a storied past which is exhibited in the archives and collections of its associated museum. Visitors can find out about the hospital’s role in the development of modern medicine, as well as peruse material related to the famous case of Joseph Merrick, otherwise known as The Elephant Man. Entry is free, although donations are encouraged to help preserve the museum’s collection.

 

  • Guildhall Art Gallery

 

The Guildhall Art Gallery houses the extensive art collection of the City of London. Built on the site of London’s Roman amphitheater, the gallery was constructed in a semi-gothic style intended to be sympathetic to the original historic Guildhall, to which the gallery is internally connected. Among the 4,000 items currently on display within the building is the famous ‘Defeat of the Floating Batteries at Gibraltar’ by John Singleton Copley. Admission is free to all visitors, making trips here an inexpensive time killer.

Shopping in Aldgate

Aldgate and the surrounding area offer an incredibly broad range of shops for visitors to explore in their downtime. From the numerous independent stores dotted around the back roads to the global brands littered along the high street, there are plenty of options for tourists and new residents to explore. Where Aldgate truly shines, however, is in its markets. Petticoat Lane Market, for example, is a genuine piece of London history, as well as a great place to find quirky, independent fashion boutiques, while Brick Lane market offers everything from bespoke furniture to arts and crafts. Whatever is on the list, there will be somewhere to find it.

Here are the best places to shop in Aldgate we would recommend:

 

  • The Arcade

 

Hidden around the back of Liverpool Street Station, The Arcade epitomizes lunchtime in the City. With a host of cafes, kiosks, cobbler stalls and more, this is always a bustling destination at which to browse local wares and enjoy a coffee on the way.

 

  • Leadenhall Market

 

One of the oldest covered markets in London, Leadenhall Market dates back to the 14th century and is located in the historic center of the city’s financial district. The market is typically open weekdays from 10 am to 6 pm, and primarily sells fresh food and flowers. Independent butchers, cheesemongers, and florists manage stalls here, with a number of commercial retailers also located in the market. 

 

  • Broadgate Circle

 

Finally opened after an extended construction period, Broadgate Circle offers craft beer, botanical cocktails, cutting-edge workout spaces, and street food right next to Liverpool Street station. Great for grabbing a bite to eat from the Japanese, Spanish and Italian menus available, the Circle is also furnished with a stunning amphitheater and several upper-level walkways with views down on the space. Plus in winter, space is turned into a skating rink, becoming a veritable local wonderland.

 

  • One New Change

 

One New Change is a major office and retail development near Aldgate, consisting of 560,000 square feet of floor space (both offices and retail space), and is the primary shopping center in the City of London. Sixty shops and restaurants are located within the expansive mall, including a large number of high street retailers, which is open seven days a week, unusual for the City. Pay a visit to H&M or Topshop for clothing, or perhaps to Barbecoa, the unique barbecue restaurant, and butcher jointly run by Jamie Oliver and Adam Perry-Lang, for some truly succulent cuisine.

 

  • Boxpark Shoreditch

 

Shoreditch’s famous pop-up mall, Boxpark fuses together the concepts of modern street food and the pairing of local and global brands to create a unique shopping and dining destination. Entirely constructed out of refitted shipping containers, Boxpark boasts numerous bars, eateries, lifestyle and clothing stores within its units, and is a perfect embodiment of the enterprising Shoreditch hipster.

Food and Drink in Aldgate

Exploring the varied cuisine on offer is one of the many perks of visiting a new city. London’s Aldgate district is home to a variety of bars and restaurants that will showcase a great array of tastes and flavors with every mouthful. From modern British treats to continental and Oriental cuisine, the area really does deliver for all palates.

Here are our top 5 best places for food and drink in Aldgate:

 

  • Treves & Hyde

 

A restaurant and coffee bar, Treves & Hyde uses the freshest seasonal ingredients in all its servings, sourced from caring local farmers. Continental-inspired dishes are served in a modern setting with outdoor seating options, and there are breakfast, lunch, dinner and weekend brunch menus all available.

Address: 15/17 Leman St, Whitechapel, London, E1 8EN

 

  • The Ten Bells

 

A classic British pub serving beer, wine, and cocktails, The Ten Bells is also an essential stop on any Jack The Ripper walk due to its association with victims Annie Chapman and Mary Kelly. Inject a little notoriety into that gastropub vibe with an infamous history and drinks across three floors.

Address: 84 Commercial St, Spitalfields, London, E1 6LY

 

  • VQ Aldgate

 

This 60 cover restaurant and 30 cover bar offer a stylish and contemporary design from its ground floor location in the four-star Dorsett City Hotel. Service is available for 24-hour eating and drinking, and there’s also a large outdoor seating area for those sunny summer days.

Address: Ground Floor Dorsett City Hotel, Aldgate High St, London, EC3N 1AH

 

  • Satyrio

 

A stylish fine-dining Italian restaurant and wine boutique, all of Satyrio’s meals use only the best fresh ingredients from gourmet producers. Seasonal menus and a superb wine list made up of curated Old and New World Tastes complete the experience, and the restaurant also plays host to various art exhibitions, live music and wine tastings throughout the year.

Address: 49 Aldgate High St, London, EC3N 1AL

 

  • Brick Lane

 

Brick Lane is a famous street in the East End of London that runs from Spitalfields to Swanfield Street in Bethnal Green. Known for its many curry houses and street markets, Brick Lane is today the heart of the Bangladeshi community in London, and represents a history of successive communities of immigrants who settled into the area. Check out Aladin Indian Restaurant, Cinnamon Brick Lane and Eastern Eye Balti House for some of the best Indian food in the area.

Churches and Cathedrals in Aldgate

Despite the more secular societies in which many of us reside today, the stunning historic architecture of many old churches and cathedrals still attracts thousands of visitors every year. Exploring the places of worship around Aldgate is a great way of whiling away a few loose hours, and many of them can be easily viewed on many local walking tours of London.

For those interested in the architecture of religion, here are some of the most notable churches in the Aldgate area:

 

  • The Bevis Marks Synagogue

 

Officially known as Qahal Kadosh Sha'ar ha-Shamayim, the Bevis Marks Synagogue is the oldest synagogue in the UK in continuous use. First built in 1701, the synagogue is affiliated with the city’s historic Spanish and Portuguese Jewish community, and is a Grade I listed building.

 

  • St. Botolph’s

 

St. Botolph’s of Aldgate is an 18th century Church of England parish church constructed in a unique style: the current building features stone quoins and window casings with an obelisk spire. Undergoing several reconstructions over the years, the earliest records of a church on the site date back to 1115, though the foundations may date back to well before the Norman invasion of 1066.



Things to do in aldgate
Attractions in Aldgate

Attractions in Aldgate

Shopping in Aldgate

Shopping in Aldgate

Wine and dine in Aldgate

Wine and dine in Aldgate

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