Flat whites, posh saunas, more sandwich shops than you could shake a stick at, and a population of young creatives who are actually from Surrey.
It’s safe to say that Hackney has changed beyond recognition over the past decade or two.
Gentrification has firmly taken hold in the area, with a previous study by Hackney Council concluding that almost half of its residents (45%) believe it’s become more unequal in recent years, while house prices rose by 833% between 1995 and 2020.
But for those wanting to move to an area that’s still on the up, the smart money’s on another neighbourhood in East London.
Despite being deemed ‘unfashionable’ by estate agents, it’s all set to change for Plaistow, which just topped a list of ‘surprising’ locations worth investing in for 2026 by Nathan K Real Estate owner, Nathan Khider.
‘East London is always a desirable area and will continue to attract first-time buyers and investors drawn to its affordability and ongoing regeneration,’ he tells Metro.
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‘Young people are being priced out of Hackney, which has become gentrified and really expensive. Instead, Mile End, Plaistow, Canning Town and Stratford offer much better value for money.’
‘Plaistow is the perfect green oasis’
Terri Bloore has lived in Plaistow for five years now, and during that time, she’s seen it become increasingly gentrified. However, in her experience, it remains affordable despite being less than 30 minutes from the city and20 minutes away from Stratford International.
She tells Metro: ‘With the new V&A Stores, Sadler’s Wells East, Olympic Park and of course the behemoth Westfields – there is lots to do and see.
‘I love running along the Green Line in the Summer which connects the Docklands and the City – Plaistow is right in the middle, so a perfect green oasis from the hustle and bustle.’
She notes that while it’s ‘still going through its transition’, a few modern flats have cropped up close to the station, as well as trendy coffee shops, and a gym. And these spots are also increasingly frequented by families and young professionals along her commute into the city.
‘I live close to Plaistow Library and the old Arts College – the architecture is pretty stunning,’ adds Terri. From my window, I can see Canary Wharf Towers, so it’s a real mix.’
‘I have to say though, my favourite place is the Halal butcher and the DIY store which sells all manner of knick-knacks – everything from washing-up bowls to shoes.’
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Things to do in Plaistow
Plaistow might not be as trendy as Hackney, but there’s plenty in the way of foodie venues to keep you going.
Kohinoor Grill & Thrill is a local favourite for its Turkish cuisine, while Kate’s Cafe specialises in Ghanaian comfort food. It’s possible to fill your boots here for £20 – a rarity in London these day – and it counts Zendaya as its most famous diner.
Caloroso is also famous for its pizza, Grace Pot Caribbean for dishes like plantain, chicken curry, and rice, and a Ukrainian spot called Albina for cabbage rolls, chicken Kyiv, herring, potato pancakes, and sweet pancakes.
In terms of local boozers, The Black Lion pours a decent pint of Guinness, as well as The Abbey Arms, and The Boleyn Tavern.
As for green spaces to walk off all that grub, Plaistow Park is full of flowers during the springtime. There’s also the Memorial Recreation Ground, and Central Park, which is closer to East Ham.
Housing in Plaistow
Another glaring benefit to living in Plaistow is that it’s considerably cheaper than large swathes of London.
According to statistics from Rightmove, the going rate for Plaistow property over the last year sits at £417,266, while the overall average across the capital is an eye-watering £660,975.
Comparatively, digs in Hackney in the past 12 months went for an average of £667,350 – which is actually more expensive than the generic figure for the whole of London, and more than £250,000 pricier than its Newham neighbour.
Transport links in Plaistow
Plaistow is conveniently located on both the District and Hammersmith & City Lines, around 30 minutes from Victoria.
It also boasts a range of bus connections, as it’s located along the routes for the 69, 115, 241, and 262 to the likes of Canning Town and Stratford.
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