Bow

Famous for the old saying of being born within the sound of Bow Bells (even though the bells referred to are actually from St. Mary-le-Bow church, in the City of London), this residential area is experiencing a surge of affluence that is not wholly welcome, with the Bow Quarter gated community being a clear sign of the divide that exists here. House prices are rising and with the upcoming Olympics being hosted nearby are set to rise through the roof; the opening of gastropubs and restaurants are a further testament to its change in character. For a touch of East End charm, head to Roman Road Market on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.