
Victoria Park
Victoria Park has traditionally been an essential amenity for the working
classes of the East End. For some East End children in the 1880s, this
may have been the only large stretch of uninterrupted greenery they ever
encountered. Facilities like the Bathing Pond later superseded by the
park lido introduced many to swimming
Victoria Park's reputation as the 'People's Park' grew
as it became a centre for political meetings and rallies of all stripes,
perhaps exceeding in importance the more well-known Hyde Park in this
regard. Today the park is still used for community events such as Mayor
Ken Livingstone’s rise festival, free cinema and opera events sponsored
by brands such as Stella Artois. Victoria Park is very popular with children
and is host to a One O'Clock Club for under-fives; a herd of deer and
goats; and a programme of summer activities. And an excellent children's
play park also includes a paddling pool.
The Bethnal Green Museum of Childhood
The V&A Museum of Childhood aims to encourage everyone to explore
the themes of childhood past and present and develop an appreciation of
creative design through a series of inspirational collections and programmes.
The V&A's extensive collection of children's costume, books, nursery
items, art and furniture were relocated to the Museum of Childhood in
1974 and redisplayed, alongside the Museum's existing toy collection.
The Geffrye Museum
The Geffrye Museum specializes in showcasing the changing style of the
English domestic interiors in a series of period rooms from 1600 to the
present day. The displays lead the visitor on a walk through time, from
the 17th century with oak furniture and panelling, past the refined splendour
of the Georgian period and the high style of the Victorians, to 20th century
modernity as seen in a 1930s flat, a mid-century room in 'contemporary
style' and a late- 20th century living space in a converted warehouse.
The Hackney Empire
Built in 1901 and designed by the prolific architect Frank Matcham, the
Hackney Empire with its electric lights, central heating and in-built
projection box was a technological wonder of its time. When the theatre
opened under the ownership of Oswald Stoll it attracted acts from all
over the world and continues to thrive with forthcoming live performances
by Billy Bragg and the comedian Ross Noble.
Broadway Market
As one of the original chartered open markets in London, Broadway Market
is having a revival. This is due to the efforts of the local Tenants &
Residents Association who joined forces with Hackney Council to set up
and promote a farmer’s market. Dozens of covered stalls will stock
an eclectic variety of fresh produce from local farm shops and also a
variety of international delicacies.
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