Forming part of London’s East End, Whitechapel is a historic district synonymous with Jack the Ripper. During the 19th century, it was one of London’s poorest areas and housed workers at the nearby Docklands. Today, Whitechapel is renowned for its colourful markets and multicultural eateries serving South Asian cuisine.
Things to do in Whitechapel
Art enthusiasts can visit the Whitechapel Gallery, which occupies a British Modern-style building on the High Street. Designed in the early 20th century by Charles Harrison Townsend, the gallery hosts changing exhibitions by contemporary artists. Retrospectives by names such as Jackson Pollock, Frida Kahlo and Mark Rothko have also been held here.
Coincide your visit to Whitechapel with the weekend to experience the sights, sounds and smells of the Petticoat Lane Market, which has been taking place since the mid-18th century. It’s a great place to pick up vintage fashions and designer clothing, as well as antique bric-a-brac and electronics. A short walk away is Whitechapel Market, where you’ll find Asian foodstuffs, fresh vegetables and flowers.
Whitechapel’s most famous resident was Jack the Ripper, a Victorian serial killer whose true identity has never been revealed. On a guided walking tour led by period-dressed police officers, you can discover the darker side of the East End’s cobblestone alleyways. In addition to visiting Jack the Ripper’s notorious murder sites, you can stop in for a drink at the Ten Bells, once frequented by his final victim, Mary Jane Kelly.
Getting around Whitechapel
Whitechapel is around 10 minutes’ drive from the centre of London and 45 minutes from Heathrow Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. London Underground services stop at the Aldgate East and Whitechapel subway stations while buses travel throughout the district, connecting most of its attractions.