Spitalfields: A Vibrant and Historic Neighbourhood in East London

Experience the vibrant allure of Spitalfields, a beautiful neighbourhood in the heart of East London. Uncover its rich history and culture, steeped in heritage dating back to the 17th century. Immerse yourself in the lively ambience as you navigate many bustling markets, eclectic shops, and delectable restaurants. Delight in the architectural splendour of renowned landmarks like the iconic Spitalfields Market and the historic Christ Church Spitalfields.

Stephen McKay / Brushfield Street, Spitalfields
Stephen McKay / Brushfield Street, Spitalfields

Spitalfields is a haven for history enthusiasts, culture aficionados, and food lovers. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and let the neighbourhood’s eclectic blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure enchant you. Whether exploring its fascinating past or simply strolling through its charming streets, Spitalfields promises an unforgettable experience catering to every taste and interest.

Unveiling the Enigmatic Spitalfields: Exploring East London’s Eclectic Gem

Nestled near Liverpool Street, Spitalfields beckons with its unique blend of tradition and modernity. By day, it bustles with financial industry workers, yet it remains deeply rooted in the East End’s captivating heritage. Immerse yourself in the neighbourhood’s enthralling past, filled with fascinating tales and an array of sights and activities to discover.

Uncover the secrets behind Spitalfields, a vibrant and diverse area in East London renowned for its lively markets, rich culture, and captivating history. Join us on a journey through time as we delve into the origins and evolution of this beautiful neighbourhood.

From its humble medieval beginnings to its remarkable metamorphosis into the modern-day gem it is today, we invite you to explore the captivating story of Spitalfields.

The History of Spitalfields

One of the first references to Spitalfields occurred in the late 1300s – it was then known as “Spittellond”. Over the years, the name of the area changed a few times, moving from “The Spitel Fyeld” in the 16th century to “Spyttlefeildes” and then “Spittle Fields”. The name is probably derived from a priory and hospital in the area, St Mary Spital.

Like many areas of urban London, Spitalfields was originally relatively rural, although it has been inhabited since Roman times. The location was home to a significant Roman burial ground excavated in the 1990s when Spitalfields market was redeveloped.

This site was the location for St Mary Spital, built in the 1190s. This was one of the most significant hospitals in the country at the time until it was taken apart on the orders of Henry VIII during the dissolution of the monasteries. At this point, more people started to set up home in the area, and in the 17th century, Huguenot weavers moved into Spitalfields to set up businesses and escape from persecution in France. It is thought that the first streets in the area were built in the 17th century.

Spitalfields was an ideal location for the Huguenots who needed to work outside the restrictions of the city’s guilds. At this point in time, Spitalfields was outside this jurisdiction. As the Huguenots built Spitalfields into a centre of silk weaving excellence, the area became more developed and more housing was constructed.

The 17th century also saw the first market set up in the area. This dealt in “flesh, fowl and roots” and, like any market of the time, could only be established once the local traders received permission from the King.

Dorset Street, Spitalfields
Ms London, Public domain,
Dorset Street, Spitalfields
via Wikimedia Commons

Spitalfields could be a turbulent place by the 18th century. Irish weavers had joined the Huguenots, but both groups needed help to compete with cheap French imports. In 1769, unrest boiled over, leading to a disorder known as the Spitalfields Riots. By the 19th century, most of the area’s traditional industries, including silk weaving, had moved elsewhere, although the area still produced some textiles.

This decline of the local industry just about did for Spitalfields. It became a poverty-stricken, overpopulated area with little work. The grand houses the Huguenots had built were turned into slums, and the area became dangerous. By the late 19th century, many people considered the place the most criminal in London.

During this period, the serial killer, Jack the Ripper, imposed a reign of terror over the East End, and Spitalfields did not escape. His last victim, Mary Kelly, lived in Spitalfields and is thought to have drunk in a local pub on the night she was murdered.

Brick Lane Market London
Brick Lane Market London

By the 20th century, Spitalfields became the home of many immigrants from Bangladesh, many of whom ultimately made their homes in and around the nearby Brick Lane. The area is now partly dominated by office blocks, due to its proximity to Liverpool Street. Like many areas of London, it is hard for locals to settle here, as housing prices are so expensive.

Things to do in Spitalfields

Spitalfields Market is still there, although it has been redeveloped. This is worth visiting, especially on weekends when it attracts most stallholders. It no longer specialises in flesh, fowl and roots, although some local stalls and shops still sell food!

You can also quickly walk down to Petticoat Lane, one of London’s oldest and most established markets. Brick Lane is worth a visit to sample its Indian food, but there is also a market there at weekends.

To see how a Huguenot silk weaver would have lived, visit the Dennis Severs’ House on Folgate Street. Dennis Severs lived in the house from the 1970s to 1990s and, over time, recreated each room to closely resemble how they would have looked when silk weavers lived there. This is also a fine example of Georgian architecture.

Finally, try having a drink in the Ten Bells pub on Commercial Street / Fournier Street. This is the pub Mary Kelly allegedly drank in on her last night, and it was undoubtedly one of her favourite pubs. Who knows, you may be treading in the steps of Jack the Ripper himself!

Spitalfields: From Hospital to Market

The name Spitalfields comes from the hospital and priory of St. Mary’s Spittel, founded in 1197 by Walter Brunus and his wife, Roisia. The hospital was a place of refuge and care for the poor, sick and travellers. It was located on the east side of Bishopsgate, one of the main roads leading into the City of London.

Next to the hospital was a field where a market was established in the 13th century. The market sold “flesh, fowl and roots” and was granted a royal charter by King Charles II in 1682. The market became a popular destination for traders and customers from all over London and beyond.

Spitalfields: A Home for Immigrants

Spitalfields has always been a welcoming place for immigrants and refugees who sought a new life in London. In the 17th century, many Huguenots (French Protestants) fled from religious persecution in France and settled in Spitalfields. They brought their skills to silk weaving and created a thriving industry that made Spitalfields famous for its delicate fabrics. They also built elegant houses, churches and schools that still stand today.

In the 19th century, Spitalfields saw another wave of immigration from Ireland, Germany and Eastern Europe. Many of these newcomers were Jewish and worked in the garment trade or as street vendors. They also established synagogues, schools and charities that enriched the cultural life of Spitalfields. By 1901, Spitalfields had become home to a large Jewish population that made up about half of its residents.

Spitalfields: A Place of Change and Challenge

Spitalfields has also faced many challenges and changes throughout its history. In the 18th century, it witnessed riots and violence as local weavers protested against cheap imports and low wages. In the late 19th century, it became notorious as the scene of some of Jack the Ripper’s murders. In the 20th century, it suffered from poverty, overcrowding and slum clearance.

Spitalfields London. Aerial view.
Spitalfields London. Aerial view.
Cmglee, CC BY-SA 3.0
creativecommons.org
via Wikimedia Commons

However, Spitalfields has also shown resilience and creativity in adapting to new circumstances. In the 1960s and 1970s, it attracted artists, musicians and bohemians who found inspiration in its gritty charm. In the 1980s and 1990s, it underwent a significant regeneration that restored its historic buildings and revived its markets. In recent years, it has welcomed new communities from Bangladesh, Somalia, Turkey and elsewhere who have added their flavours to Spitalfields’ cuisine, art and culture.

Spitalfields: A Destination for Everyone

Today, Spitalfields is a vibrant and diverse area that offers something for everyone. You will find it here whether you are looking for fashion, food or fun. You can browse through the stalls at Old Spitalfields Market or Brick Lane Market; enjoy a curry at one of the many restaurants; admire the architecture at Christ Church or Toynbee Hall; or discover hidden gems at one of the museums or galleries.

Spitalfields is more than just a place; it is a story of people who have shaped its history and identity over centuries. Come and explore this fascinating area and see for yourself why Spitalfields is one of London’s most exciting destinations.


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4 thoughts on “Spitalfields: A Vibrant and Historic Neighbourhood in East London”

  1. Not sure whether I am allowed a little plug for my book.
    The Spitalfields area is used as a setting in my novel, ‘Madame Deficit’, and includes a silk weaving family.
    It is half an historical crime novel, half historical romance and you can find the first two parts on Amazon Kindle (three more parts soon to come).
    Researching the Spitalfields area in the 18th century was fascinating – London was a major manufacturing centre at that time.
    There was a surge in population too and lots of new housing being built throughout the century.
    From the crime perspective – partly the theme of my novel – there was a lack of police but brutal punishments for those who were accused.

    Reply
  2. I am doing research on my great, great, great Grandfather, James McFarlan, who owned a Silk Manufacturing business as a cottage industry on 19 Steward Street, Spitalfields that closed it’s doors in the 1830’s. Do you have any information on his business or pictures of the old buildings that would have been there then?

    Reply
  3. I am currently working on a dissertation on the textile industry in the UK at the University of Cambridge. As part of my research I am looking for historical documents for Huguenot silk weavers houses in Spitalfields, in particular documents on the houses on Fournier Street around 1850s (but not only). I was wondering if in your own research or any of your website visitors you have came across any such information?

    Reply
  4. I am a Spanish writer who has written …AND SHAKESPEARE READ DON QUIXOTE both in English and Spanish. It deals with Shakespeare’s lost play (The history of Cardenio, based on CARDENIO one of Don Quixote’s characters. In my novel I fantasize about a posible meeting between Shakespeare and Cervantes to rewrite together “The hisory of Cardenio” after its partial loss during the fire of the Globe theatre on the 29th.June 1613.

    …AND SHAKESPEARE READ DON QUIXOTE describes different interesting places which still survive like THE GEORGE, THE RED LION INN, and many others and I would appreciate getting as muh information as posible about Shakespeare’s places and locals that are nowadays open.

    Thank you very much. JOSÉ ENRIQUE GIIL-DELGADO

    I

    Reply

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