AIRBNB EXPERIENCES

Things to do in East London

Book unique activities hosted by local experts on Airbnb.

Activities led by local experts

Discover unique experiences hosted by inspiring locals.

0 of 0 items showing

1 of 2 pages

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 1574 reviews

Hidden Pubs of London

Join us for a 3hr historical stumble down the "street of shame". Starting in the shadow of the iconic St.Paul's cathedral, we explore the tiny backstreets and rambling courtyards the ancient City of London is famous for. We follow in the drunken footsteps of literary greats including Dickens, Shakespeare, Pepys & Johnson whilst pausing for a drink in at least 4 of the most historic pubs dating as far back as the 1500's. From discovering art nouveau gems to glamorous Victorian gin palaces we enjoy a variety of pub styles and breweries along the way. It's not a prescriptive tour, so you choose & pay for your drinks along the way. We're here to offer recommendations, and you can often "sip before you sup" with a few tasters on request from the bars along the way. This allows you to indulge as much or as little as you desire! Non-drinkers can soak up the history, and wine & gin-lovers are also well catered for. We usually finish up on the edge of Covent Garden perfect for theatre-land, restaurants and of course more pubs! Other note: - Guests are recommended to be over 18 years of age to enjoy the walk at its best. Anyone lucky enough to look under 25 years of age should bring photo ID - Group sizes of up to 14 participants - Alfie the dog is not always in attendance. Sorry! N.B. We have a small number of hosts so you might be meeting up with Chris, Mark, Wil or other

New place to stay

Paddle London’s Olympic waterways

Canoe East London’s canals and locks, through its nature and history. Meet up and gear up Complete the waiver, grab a paddle, and get your life vest. Pass through lock Learn how locks work and float through one yourself Hear local stories Learn how the 2012 Olympics transformed East London. Spot wildlife Look for herons, swans, and willows along the banks. Pause and reflect Consider the transformation you’ve witnessed on water.

New place to stay

Relax in hidden green spaces with a permaculturist

Uncover the natural beauty of London while learning about edible and medicinal plants. Meet and harvest Gather at Hackney Herbal and pick some fresh herbs. Stroll Hackney Wick Spot plants by the canal and discuss Wick Woodland history. Move to the Marshes See the wonders of Hackney Marshes and enjoy foraged tea. Visit the sculptures Spot some wildlife and witness Nature's Throne artworks. End at the pub Wrap up at the Prince of Wales pub for a drink or a bite.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Let me introduce the City - the heart of London

London’s Square Mile isn’t just the city’s financial district— it’s a world of ancient traditions, hidden corners, and modern influence woven together over centuries. Join me, one of the City's official guides, for a walk through time as we unlock the stories behind the City of London’s streets, institutions, and customs that still shape life here today. • Discover how the past is still alive in the City’s streets, from its Roman foundations to medieval trade guilds, the layers of history and its transformation into a financial powerhouse. • Explore hidden corners, quiet churches, and tucked-away green spaces, and learn how ancient traditions such as the Freedom of the City, the Lord Mayor’s Show, and the Livery Companies play a role in modern life. • Witness the striking contrast between centuries-old institutions and cutting-edge architecture, as the Square Mile continues to evolve. Whether it’s your first time in the City or if you’ve walked these streets for years, you’ll never see them the same way again.

5 out of 5 average rating, 5 reviews

Step into London’s neon history at God’s Own Junkyard

Step into the vibrant world of the Bracey family’s neon art, where I’ll share a behind-the-scenes look at how our neon lit up everything from London’s West End to the big screen in Hollywood. • Our time will begin with a guided tour of our neon-filled showroom, which we call God’s Own Junkyard, where you’ll hear the story of how my family illuminated 1970s Soho, transforming it into a world-famous neon spectacle. • We’ll share firsthand stories about how the family craft has been intertwined with London’s film legacy for decades, including collaborations with legendary directors Stanley Kubrick and Ridley Scott, and iconic films like Eyes Wide Shut, Batman, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Iron Man, and more. • Next, one of the world’s top neon glass benders will demonstrate their rare skills, while also sharing stories about how neon pieces ended up in the private collections of icons like Vivienne Westwood and Stella McCartney. • We’ll cool down with a hot drink at the on-site cafe, where we can catch up on our favorite moments from the day. Before saying our goodbyes, you’ll be free to explore, take photos, and immerse yourself in the vibrant, glowing world of God’s Own Junkyard.

5 out of 5 average rating, 2 reviews

Try rare brews with a sommelier on the Bermondsey Beer Mile

Embark on an immersive tasting tour of Bermondsey’s famed Beer Mile, led by a seasoned beer sommelier. With me as your guide to three of South East London’s most exciting breweries, you’ll skip the queues and step into private tasting sessions. • We’ll start at Southwark Brewery, then visit the Barrel Project and the Dutch Tap Room. Each stop will showcase a different style, including traditional cask beer, experimental barrel-aged brews and bold keg beers. • I’ll share insights on flavor profiles and brewing techniques, and introduce you to the characters and stories behind the evolution of Bermondsey’s craft beer culture. • We’ll also pause for a food break at one of London’s viral food spots, Maltby Street Market, where you’ll find an array of gourmet street food to complement your tasting journey. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how to taste beer, learn about the history of London’s brewing scene, and come away with insider tips for the craft beers and breweries you’ll want to discover next.

New place to stay

Turn London snaps into a handmade zine

Print a paper keepsake at Photobook happy hour with a pro photographer. Enter Photobook cafe Explore the zine history and get inspired by a vast archive located in our cafe. Whilst you have a browse grab a drink from out bar. Design your own zine Select phone pics to turn them into a personalized keepsake. Sip, socialize and curate Have a drink on us as you curate your design, send to print! The fold, staple and trim.

New place to stay

Walk through centuries of Black history in Greenwich

Explore 500 years of Black history in London with me, a historian, author, and teacher, on this walking tour of Greenwich and Greenwich Park, stopping at landmarks to share the hidden stories behind each one. • Meet at the famed sailing ship the Cutty Sark to discuss local Black maritime history, including the 1880 murder of a Black seaman aboard the vessel. • At the Royal Naval College, dive into stories of 18th-century Black Royal Navy personnel and meet John Blanke, Henry VIII’s Black trumpeter. • At Greenwich Pier, view the old Naval Dockyard, which was tied to the attempted deportation of London’s Black poor in the 1780s. • Learn about the Black families baptised and buried at St. Alfege’s Church and explore Greenwich Park’s ties to renowned 18th-century writers like Olaudah Equiano and composer and abolitionist Ignatius Sancho. You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the Black history hidden beneath the surface of the city, as well as an appetite to keep learning more.

Top-rated activities

View our most highly rated experiences, loved by guests.

0 of 0 items showing

1 of 3 pages

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 971 reviews

London Sightseeing Walking Tour - See London in One Day

Discover the magic of London in one day on this London walking tour. Your tour will visit the two key areas of Central London - the City of London and Westminster - and explore 2000 years of history and London's most iconic sights, landmarks and attractions including: Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Monument, Tower of London, The Shard, Bank of England, Royal Exchange, Mansion House, Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, Sky Garden, St James’s Palace, Clarence House, The Mall, City Hall, Downing Street, London Bridge, River Thames, London Underground, New Scotland Yard, Watling Street, Cenotaph, HMS Belfast, St Margaret’s Church, Lancaster House, Bloomberg Building, Bracken House, St James’s Park and more..! Your local London tour guide will bring the stories of London to life in a relaxed atmosphere allowing everyone to participate in the tour with questions, trivia, great photos and a lot of fun! --------- IMPORTANT: - This tour takes one journey on the London Underground. - This tour will take a short lunch break and allow guests to purchase food and drink - Want to see the Changing of the Guard? Click here - https://www.airbnb.co.uk/experiences/2437466 - Tour is not suitable for wheelchairs, those with walking difficulties or prams/strollers. - We have multiple guides who lead this tour. Your guide may not be Mike.

5 out of 5 average rating, 1 reviews

Hackney & London Fields - the shepherd's route to market

Join me for a walk through vibrant Hackney as we follow the shepherd’s route that they took as they drove their flocks to Smithfield market. We will look at the buildings that line this back route, as we make our way form Hackney’s old town hall to the top of famous Brick Lane. We pass the Hackney Empire and the "new" town hall and on through London Fields as the animals walked. We will see their presence in the street names, Lamb Lane, Sheep Lane and the Cat and Mutton pub. We see the Fields as they are used today, as a people’s park, full of recreational activities. We will learn about the history of this area including the beautiful early Georgian houses on the edge of the Fields. We will talk about the squatters movement that challenged the local authority. We head through Broadway market, an amazing food destination at weekends. We go up to the Regents Canal and view the great iron Gas Works. Over Cat and Mutton Bridge where we will hear about the coming of the canal and how that changed the movement of goods. Then on down Goldsmiths Row, where we take a quick peek at Hackney City Farm, if its open, to view the animals that would have walked this route. On through Columbia Road, a famous Sunday flower market. We explore the Boundary Estate, the first local authority housing in London. The we stop at the top of historic Brick Lane at the Beigal bakery.

5 out of 5 average rating, 2 reviews

City History Mystery Tour, a guest-curated walk

Discover the City of London with me, your expert Green Badge Tourist Guide, on a spontaneous immersive journey where no two walking tours are ever the same. You'll uncover some of the Square Mile’s rich tapestry of ancient landmarks, modern skyscrapers, and hidden gems, all tailored to the historical themes that interest you most. • I’ll welcome you and invite you to choose themes from several subjects including Roman London, Shakespeare, the Great Fire, Wren churches, the history of finance in the City, modern architecture, hidden gardens and more. Based on your selections, I’ll craft a spontaneous route on the spot! • I’ll show you secret alleyways, courtyards and medieval churches; sites damaged during the Blitz and the City’s wartime resilience; the Thames and its bridges; or Roman ruins and the origins of Londinium. • As we walk, you can ask me questions about any elements of history you’re curious about. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a curious traveller, or a local looking to see the City with fresh eyes, I’ll guide you on an unforgettable journey through London’s streets—revealing the City’s secrets, one step at a time.

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 726 reviews

Trip to unique bars in London

You are with a group of friends, colleagues, solo or with your partner looking for a unique experience in London at aesthetically beautiful bars with a hint of quirkiness, a dash of mystery, blended with impeccable music, superb signature drinks, exquisite food, and the coolest people in London- then stick with us, because this experience is your match! What to expect: Prepare to explore hidden gems with secret doors, speakeasies evoking the 50s glamour, opulent bars with award-winning drinks, secret venues with live music, and places so quirky that you will have the staff dancing on top of the counter (believe me, it's fun!). Experience Schedule: 7:00 p.m: start the evening by indulging in delicious drinks whilst sharing with other guests travelling tips, experiences, and advice on how to get the most out of the city of London. 8:00 to 11p.m: Few drinks later, your acquaintances are now your friends and you are ready to head onto the next bars, each one of them with a distinctive decor, ambience, story, and signature drinks to match! There's no such thing as a goodbye after a superb night out. This is the time to exchange numbers with your new friends, plan a group trip, or a next-day outing, or carry on enjoying the beautiful city of London until the next day! *Check @_londoning_ guide for tips on unique things to do in London.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 532 reviews

No Diet Club - Best food in East London

- All food is included / The tour is on foot / Tastings may vary depending on the season This is our second food tour in London with the same spirit as the other, but in a different neighborhood: East London. No Diet Club Adventure began in 2017 at London's street food markets before growing across Europe. We often hear that we eat badly in London, but it's a lot of things. This multicultural city is full of delights and updates. Local cheese, amazing pies, London's best chaï, our favorite bakery, home made pizza and more surprises :) (VEGETARIANS ARE ALWAYS WELCOME) ⇨ IG: @no_diet_club ⚠ In case of heavy rains the tour can be done by bus.:) ▶ What they offer ✔ - Many tastings - Fun - A great walk in London - Jokes just as bad - Smiles - A list of recommendations about London - New friends from all over the world

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 700 reviews

The Cloak & Dagger Tour, Horrifying History brought to life

The Horrors of History brought to life...literally! A Walking tour like no other! Combining history tour, theatre and immersive experience. London's best and multi award winning tour takes you on a journey through the Horror, and gruesome history of London's darker past, Bringing it to life! Travel and experience fascinating and gruesome reality of London's horrible history: crime, poverty, disease, war, rebellion, executions and torture! See it brought to life, as you MEET the People from the history you explore, face to face! Starting at the historic "The George Inn", our guide, will take you and your fellow travellers on a through the darker, untold side of History, that will horrify you, till the end of your days! This will be a gruesome, horrible, disgusting experience. ADULT CONTENT! Be prepared! 14+ is the age rating for this experience. Wear clothing appropriate to the weather.

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 32 reviews

London Food Walking Tour

Embark on an unforgettable London food tour in the East End, a hotspot for global cuisine and historic flavours. This London food tour offers an authentic taste of the East End’s unique food culture, with stops at local favourites and hidden gems. Delight in a mix of local and international flavours including hand-rolled bagels filled with tender salted beef from the iconic Beigal Bake on Brick Lane. Indulge your sweet tooth with Brazilian churros, oozing with rich caramel or chocolate, adding a Latin twist to your tour. Spice things up with Viper Chicken Wings, followed by savoury Polish sausages and Mediterranean gyros, reflecting the cultural influences that shape East London. No food tour is complete without the best fish and chips in London at Poppies, featuring golden-battered fish and fluffy chips. Your tour also includes the bold richness of African truffles, a unique treat celebrating the area's diversity and explores one of London’s top food markets, brimming with vibrant dishes from Southeast Asia, South America, and the Caribbean. IMPORTANT! - Food & drink is not included so that guests can consume according to their personal taste and reduce food wastage. - Tour is not suitable for those with walking difficulties or prams/strollers. - We have multiple guides who lead this tour. Your guide may not be Mike.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 69 reviews

Single & Couple Photoshoot

Our photographic tour of London is the ideal manner to start your adventure in the capital of the United Kingdom! We will meet near Tower Bridge, where our tour unravels. We would walk through the rich, cultural and touristic heritage that London has to offer. We will cover all significant aspects and offerings of London, from the Millenium Bridge to Leadenhall Market. While covering the different aspects London offers, I would also be clicking pictures for your UK photoshoot. The tour also includes recommendations for must-visit bars, restaurants, and quirky clubs to enjoy the most authentic British experience.

5 out of 5 average rating, 4 reviews

Explore Hackney with an artist

Get to know Hackney the local way! • To begin, we’ll step into my world as a painter with a hands-on session in my Hackney studio, a lively space shared with other artists. You’ll get a feel for mixing colours and making paint, discovering your own creative instincts along the way. • Through experimenting with pigments and mixing colours from scratch, you’ll see how they interact in unexpected ways. No experience is needed—just a willingness to explore! You can take your experiments home as a keepsake of the day • Then, we’ll explore some of the neighbourhoods hidden gems, from spots filled with music to the perfect place for a coffee break, plus shops overflowing with unique finds. There will also be some animal and nature encounters sprinkled along the way.

4.94 out of 5 average rating, 191 reviews

Secret Old London

Walking through the ancient streets of London, you'll learn what lies beneath your feet, from 14th century Black Death victims to a long lost Roman Ampitheatre. Standing by some of the most foreboding locations in the city, I'll tell you about the gruesome executions which took place here, and the partying and revelry which accompanied them! You'll be taken within the shell of a church destroyed in the Blitz, and be led into the park which displays one of the most touching memorials to self sacrifice you could possibly imagine. The walk lasts 1.5 hours and will leave a lasting impression of a different side to London's deep and extraordinary history. Other things to note Your guide will be easily identifiable with a flag and friendly smile. There are no toilet or refreshment breaks during the tour, so please be prepared.

Something for everyone

1 of 2 pages

Things to do in East London

Activities led by local experts

Top-rated activities

Something for everyone

Discover more activities near East London