Whitechapel

The Basics

History and true crime buffs can see Whitechapel on a Kray Twin or Jack the Ripper-themed walking tour, visiting the sites of their violent acts and learning about the social circumstances that led to their reigns of terror. Visitors will also enjoy exploring Whitechapel’s vibrant culture by dropping into one of the district’s popular curry houses, and checking out local galleries, street art, markets, coffee shops, and pubs.

Things to Know Before You Go

• A historical walking tour is a must for anyone interested in the district’s criminal past.

• The area’s restaurants, bars, and cafés are popular with local creatives, workers, and visitors.

• Remember your umbrella and raincoat, especially in winter, as London’s streets can be wet and windy.

• The public paths are mostly accessible to wheelchair users, though it’s recommended to check access arrangements with specific tours and attractions ahead of time.

How to Get There

Whitechapel station serves the area, with both Underground and Overground line access. Aldgate, Aldgate East, and Shadwell stations are also nearby. Whitechapel Road and Commercial Road are both major thoroughfares, and are frequented by many local buses.

When to Get There

Crime tours are particularly atmospheric after sunset, with winter’s early dusk providing a perfect backdrop for spine-chilling tales. The district’s multicultural heritage also provides a year-round program of local festivities to enjoy, including Eid al-Fitr celebrations led by the East London Mosque in June, as well as Christmas merrymaking in December.

Immigration in Whitechapel

During the 19th century, many Irish and Jewish families moved to London, fleeing persecution or famine and seeking work. Most of those people settled in the traditionally working-class areas of the East End. During the mid-20th century, many poor immigrants from Bangladesh moved to the area. Several social-history tours provide further insight into these population shifts, as well as their political, cultural, and economic influence on the city.

Ways to explore

History and true crime enthusiasts may visit Whitechapel on one of the many Jack the Ripper–themed walking tours that frequent the area, visiting sites linked to the infamous murders, while guides share stories and insights. Some of these tours also include a visit to the Jack The Ripper Museum, while others blend true crime history with pop culture by adding in stops at Harry Potter filming locations. Alternatively, for a different side of Whitechapel, you can explore the area on street art walking tours or East End food tours, with delicious tastings along the way.

Accessibility

Many areas of Whitechapel are accessible to travelers using wheelchairs, and Whitechapel Station offers step-free access.

Age limits

Some dark history tours and attractions have age restrictions, so check before booking.

What to pack

Refillable water bottle, portable charger, camera

What to wear

Layers, comfortable shoes, umbrella

Not allowed

Littering, drinking alcohol in the street

Amenities

Shops, restaurants, museums

Address

Whitechapel is easy to reach from other areas of London, and most visitors travel here by public transport. Local tube stations include Whitechapel, Aldgate, Aldgate East, and Shadwell.

Driving

Whitechapel’s busy London location means heavy traffic, frequent congestion, and limited, not to mention expensive, parking. Therefore, choosing to travel by taxi or using public transport is usually much easier.

Public transportation

Whitechapel station is served by the District, Hammersmith & City, and Elizabeth tube lines, plus the Windrush overground line. Other nearby stations include Aldgate, via the Metropolitan and Circle lines; Aldgate East, served by the District and Hammersmith & City lines; and Shadwell, which has the DLR and Windrush overground line.

Best times to visit

Crime tours are particularly atmospheric after sunset, with winter’s early dusk providing a perfect backdrop for dark history stories.

Best days to visit

Come to the area on a weekday if you can to miss the crowds, although avoid commuter times if you can.

Best months to visit

For general exploring, aim for the warmer summer months. True crime tours can be atmospheric, though, in the colder months of October through December.