East End

London's East End has almost mythical status, whether from one of Britain's most popular soap-opera's, East Enders, or from its famous citizens, such as Jack the Ripper or the Kray Twins it has something of a bad boy image and is by many considered the true heart of London.

Attracted by its proximity to the City more and more affluent incomers are pushing property prices up in the East End and there is a steady creep of renovation eastwards. Loft and warehouse conversions are the big thing although there are still streets of Victorian terraces that survived the Blitz and the big slum clearances of the 60's.

Local street markets sell everything from trainers to electrical goods and fruit and veg, while Brick Lane is famous for its fantastic curry houses.