It's fitting, then, that her favourite corners of the capital are the ones with the strongest sense of identity. Taking in the wide-open skies of Walthamstow Wetlands, the calm of Hackney Marshes, the independent bookshops, the neighbourhood cafés and the natural wine bars, Bell's East London is one of creativity and deep rooted community. Here, she shares the places she loves most.
For someone who's never been to East London before: what's the very first place you'd take them?
Chatsworth Road on a Sunday. It still feels genuinely local, great food, independent shops, old pubs, bakeries, flower stalls, people spilling onto the pavements
If you only had one day in East London and could only show someone three places, where would you take them – morning, afternoon and evening?
Morning: a walk down Wilton Way in Hackney, coffee at Violet Bakery. Afternoon: a walk over Hackney Marshes and the canal paths towards Leyton. Grab lunch at Fragile in Blondie's. Evening: Head to Tilbury arches in Leyton – natural wine at Swirl and cocktails at Leyton Calling.
Complete this sentence: 'If you only see one thing in East London, make it…'
…The marshes at golden hour when everything feels quiet and calm.
What's your favourite place in East London that most visitors don't know about – but absolutely should?
Walthamstow Wetlands. It's hard to believe you're still in London, vast reservoirs, wildlife, huge skies and some of the most peaceful walks in the city. It offers a completely different side of East London than most ever get to see.
Which three shops in East London do you always find an excuse to visit?
Dreamhouse Records and Phlox books, both on Francis Road in Leyton, also most of the pop-ups that take place at Host at Midland Road.
Where do you go for a really good lunch and what do you order?
Sho Foo Doh at Fillybrook never disappoints, they have a much-welcomed extended residency. The okonomiyaki is delicious.
You're splashing out on a hotel: where do you go?
It's a little bit further towards central, but it would be Zetter Townhouse. It's always been one of my favourites.
And for a pampering/wellness fix?
Community Sauna Baths at Blackhorse Road or Arvo sauna in Walthamstow – both are great.
What about for a great coffee/tea fix?
Perky Blenders, hands down every time.
Who is your favourite local artist or maker – and where can people find their work?
I'm always inspired by the ceramicists working out of Turning Earth near Lea Bridge. There's an incredible community of makers there producing beautiful pieces by hand, and it perfectly captures the creative spirit that still exists in this part of East London.
Favourite local florist?
Edie Rose on Francis Road in Leyton
And for a proper culture fix?
Soho Theatre in Walthamstow – it's housed inside an amazing historical building, recently opened last year.
Where do you go when you need a big view?
Down the canals and towards the Olympic Park stadium - it feels very open and green, really nice during the summer months.
Finish this sentence: 'If you really want to experience East London properly, you should ___.'
…leave the main roads, and spend a full afternoon around the marshes, canals and neighbourhood cafés.
Who is your ultimate local hero and why?
The people quietly keeping East London neighbourhood-focused, the independent cafés, community organisers, market traders and makers who've stayed as the area's changed around them.
FAQs: East London
What is East London best known for?
East London is known for its creative communities, independent businesses, thriving food scene, markets, street art and abundance of green spaces, from Hackney Marshes to Walthamstow Wetlands.
Which area of East London should first-time visitors explore?
Hackney is a great starting point, offering independent shops, cafés, parks, canals and some of the area's best-known neighbourhood streets, including Wilton Way and Chatsworth Road.
What are the best green spaces in East London?
Hackney Marshes, Walthamstow Wetlands, the Lea Valley canal paths and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park all offer a quieter, greener side of East London.
Where can I find independent shopping in East London?
Francis Road in Leyton is packed with independent businesses, while Chatsworth Road and parts of Hackney remain excellent destinations for bookshops, florists, bakeries and specialist retailers.
Is East London good for food and drink?
Absolutely. From neighbourhood bakeries and coffee shops to natural wine bars, destination restaurants and street-food favourites, East London has one of the capital's most exciting food scenes.
What is the best way to experience East London like a local?
Step away from the main roads. Spend time walking the canals, exploring the marshes, browsing neighbourhood shops and settling into independent cafés rather than rushing between landmarks.
When is the best time to visit East London?
Spring and summer are particularly rewarding, when the canals, wetlands and parks come into their own and many neighbourhoods spill out onto the pavements with outdoor dining and markets.
Where should I stay in East London?
While options abound, many visitors choose boutique hotels around Shoreditch and Clerkenwell, which offer easy access to both East London neighbourhoods and central London attractions.
