Leyton is the lesser-known East London neighbourhood that we locals love to boast about. Conveniently located one stop on the Central Line from Stratford, it’s within walking distance of Walthamstow, Wanstead, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and Hackney Wick (if you’re feeling energetic), and neighbours Leytonstone and Lea Bridge – both of which have their own impressive array of cafes, restaurants, indie shops and green spaces to explore.
The area has changed drastically over the last few years, with new independent businesses popping up every few weeks (much to the delight of residents, who are kept well-informed thanks to Leyton-loving Insta accounts @leyton.love, @leyton_living and @leytonstoned).
There are three main ‘hubs’ in Leyton; the high street, closest to the tube, is home to the usual suspects (think nail shops, post offices, butchers, pubs and supermarkets); Leyton Midland, just by the overground, has become an area to watch with breweries, BBQ spots and – most recently – a tiki-inspired bar appearing in the railway arches; Francis Road is a leafy, pedestrianised street where you’ll find most locals at the weekend, nipping out for flat whites and sourdough in their Birkenstocks, pottering around the record store and sitting in the sun sipping a local beer while the kids play nearby.
This is my guide to spending a perfect Saturday in the area.
Perky Blenders
8am: morning coffee at Perky Blenders
A stone’s throw from Leyton Midland, Perky Blenders has been waking up sleepy Leytoners since opening its doors in 2017. The family-run business, which started life as a humble coffee cart in nearby Walthamstow, now boasts five stores across London as well as supplying wholesale coffee to over 100 coffee shops. Get in line to order a perfectly-poured flat white, pick up a bag of your favourite blend of beans (I love the forest blend – rich, chocolaty and nutty), and, if you’re peckish, a bite from The Good Bagel will safely see off hunger pangs.
