Car Hire Stratford

Stratford rose to global attention during the 2012 Summer Olympics but its appeal hasn’t faded since. Set in East London with 36,000 residents, it’s a place where vast parklands, bold architecture and family-friendly fun all share space. Visitors from Walthamstow often make the short trip over to enjoy the open green spaces and Olympic legacy sites. The area is easily navigable by car, with major roads leading from surrounding boroughs. While summer brings festivals and open-air activity, spring and early autumn are perfect for long walks and riverside picnics. In the middle of it all is Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, still drawing crowds for its unique blend of greenery and modern sport.

Attractions In Stratford

Stratford is a place best discovered gradually. Whether you’re meandering through its wide parks, peeking into historical corners or getting caught up in something unexpectedly fun, the area offers a rhythm that rewards curiosity. There’s no fixed route — just plenty to stumble across when you follow your feet.

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park remains the heart of Stratford’s post-Olympic revival and it still draws visitors from across the city for good reason. With green spaces, calm waterways and long trails for walking or cycling, it’s a brilliant mix of relaxation and activity. The ArcelorMittal Orbit stands out, both for the view and its twisting slide. Events pop up often, from cultural showcases to open-air workouts, with the London Stadium and Aquatics Centre adding to the appeal. More public toilets would improve longer visits, especially for families. Still, it’s a top choice for day trips and those coming over from Leytonstone often find themselves spending hours wandering, relaxing and exploring.

Carpenter’s Road Lock

Tucked into the quieter side of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Carpenter’s Road Lock is a piece of local history surrounded by calm canals and open lawns. The walk here from the main park leads through well-kept paths and seating areas that make it easy to pause with friends or family. Open on workdays from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM, it offers a change of pace from the park’s buzz — a spot where you can slow down and watch the water glide by.

Langthorne Park

Langthorne Park strikes a thoughtful balance between gentle beauty and active recreation. We visited in early summer and the rose garden was in full bloom, filling the space with colour and fragrance. The sports area gives the park a livelier edge, great for workouts or playtime, while the ponds — marked for wildlife only — offer a peaceful backdrop. Open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, it’s a lovely space for both calm strolls and weekend energy.

Victoria Park

Often referred to as the “People’s Park,” Victoria Park in Mile End is one of the most cherished green spaces in East London. With nearly 16,000 glowing reviews, it’s easy to see why. Broad lawns, lakeside paths, a splash pool and a children’s playground make it equally suited to peaceful afternoons and family outings. Cafés near the edges offer snacks and coffee and there’s always a quiet bench if you need one. It’s a park well known to those exploring from Bow, especially when they’re after somewhere that offers space, shade and a touch of quiet charm.

Stratford Martyrs Memorial

This memorial stands in quiet tribute to a dark and defining chapter in local history. It commemorates the 13 Protestants — 11 men and 2 women — who were executed by burning at the stake in 1556 during the Marian persecutions. The site, simple yet powerful, serves as a reminder of the individuals who stood by their beliefs at great personal cost. Tucked in among more modern buildings, it brings weight and context to the surrounding area.

City Mill Lock

City Mill Lock sits quietly off Blaker Road, nestled among the towpaths and rivers of Stratford’s eastern fringe. Built in the 1930s, it originally used three sets of mitre gates to manage water levels between the City Mill and Waterworks rivers. Though later updated and partially restored in the early 2000s, it still carries a strong sense of Stratford’s industrial past. We followed the canal route and found the lock surrounded by greenery, thick duckweed and calm — a stark contrast to the nearby residential growth.

London 2012 Olympic Rings

A bold reminder of one of London’s proudest moments, the London 2012 Olympic Rings are more than just a photo spot — they’re a lasting symbol of unity, achievement and global celebration. Set within the Olympic Park, the sculpture’s massive scale and vibrant colours capture the energy of the Games that transformed Stratford. There’s no fee, no ticket — just a striking piece of sporting history open to all. It’s not unusual to see families posing or children counting the rings aloud, especially those who’ve made the short journey from Manor Park on a sunny afternoon.

Samuel Gurney Memorial

The Samuel Gurney Memorial may not grab your attention at first glance but its story runs deep. Gurney, a philanthropist and campaigner against slavery, is remembered here for his social contributions during the 19th century. This understated monument sits quietly in Stratford, offering a moment to reflect on a life spent trying to improve the lives of others. It’s worth a brief stop if you’re nearby and appreciate the quieter corners of history.

Discover Children’s Story Centre

Discover Children’s Story Centre is one of Stratford’s best spots for younger visitors, designed entirely around creativity, play and exploration. The space blends storytelling zones with hands-on exhibits and outdoor areas, giving kids of all ages the chance to invent, climb, crawl or imagine their way through themed adventures. It’s a hit with families, not just for the fun but also for how smoothly it runs. Those heading in from Docklands often choose this as their main destination when planning a day out with little ones. Open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, it’s a place that delivers plenty for the price.

Tumbling Bay Playground

Tumbling Bay Playground is one of the standout family spots within Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, blending natural materials and inventive structures to create something a little different from your typical playground. We noticed climbing frames, wooden forts and shallow water features — all laid out in a space that feels safe but still full of adventure. While it could use an extra swing or two, especially on busier days, the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. Open from 7 AM to 11 PM Monday through Saturday (and from 11 AM to 5 PM on Sundays), it’s a great spot for kids to burn off energy before lunch or after exploring the wider park.

Zip World London At ArcelorMittal Orbit

Soaring above the Olympic Park, Zip World London brings together adrenaline and architecture in a way few other attractions manage. The zip line experience starts high up on the ArcelorMittal Orbit, sending riders across the skyline with incredible views below. It’s a bold way to explore the park from above and perfect for anyone wanting a more thrilling day out. That mix of culture and action is why it often makes the list for people basing their day around Bethnal Green — just enough of a detour for something truly memorable.

Gravity Max – Immersive Gamebox – Stratford City

For an afternoon of energy and laughs, Gravity Max in Westfield Stratford offers immersive gaming that keeps groups coming back. We saw people dive into multiplayer adventures like “Floor Is Lava” and “Temple of Coins,” all projected across responsive walls in themed Gamebox rooms. Beyond the headline games, there’s an arcade area too, making this a full-scale entertainment stop. Open daily from 9:30 AM, it’s especially popular for birthdays and small group outings thanks to its staff and slick check-in process.

London Stadium

With more than 16,500 positive reviews, the London Stadium stands out as a top venue for football, concerts and major events. It’s well known for its thoughtful layout, including accessible seating and partial roof coverage that makes a difference on rainy days. Many people arriving from Wanstead find it easy to combine an event here with shopping or dining at the adjacent Westfield complex. Whether you’re in for a match or just soaking up the atmosphere, it remains one of Stratford’s most visited landmarks.

London Aquatics Centre

This Olympic legacy site remains one of Stratford’s top locations for fitness and family swimming alike. The 50-metre pool is a standout — clean, spacious and professionally maintained — while the connected gym offers a practical place for a full workout. What makes the space shine is the service: we overheard one visitor mention how a staff member went above and beyond, turning a simple visit into something special. Popular with residents of nearby Hackney, it’s open every day from 6 AM to 11 PM and well worth including in your Stratford itinerary.

Stratford Park Sensory Garden

The Stratford Park Sensory Garden may be small but its bright and varied planting makes it a cheerful spot to pause. Carefully looked after by residents, the garden blends textured greenery with seasonal blooms, creating a pocket of calm just off a busier road. While the traffic nearby does occasionally interrupt the atmosphere, the garden still offers a quiet, colourful moment in the middle of Stratford’s energy.