Waltham Forest

At north-east London’s outer reaches is Waltham Forest. The borough is home to areas such as Walthamstow, Chingford, Leyton. And it’s the birthplace of some true icons of design, film and football.

Its reputation for creativity began with William Morris, the designer who was a key part of the Arts & Crafts movement. In 1899, three years on from Morris’ death, the world-famous film director Alfred Hitchcock was born in Leytonstone.

Waltham Forest gave us musical acts including East 17 and Lethal Bizzle. And it has A-grade sporting credentials via footballers David Beckham and Harry Kane, who were both born in Whipps Cross Hospital.

Residents are also lucky to be surrounded by nature in the Walthamstow Wetlands, rich in marine and bird life, and Epping Forest.