This Newham neighbourhood includes the two quintessential Victorian and Edwardian-built suburban communities of Manor Park and Aldersbrook, surrounding the southernmost part of Epping Forest. Alongside a number of original houses, there is also a great deal of more contemporary residential estates. Its incorporation of invaluable green spaces, including the vast Wanstead Flats, which is listed as a site of special scientific interest, and the peaceful City of London Cemetery, makes this area a contemporary London oasis. Possessing a fantastic array of amenities – good schools, transport links and a well- stocked high street along Romford Road - this area rates highly for liveability. Transport links into London are reasonably regular, with Great Eastern Main Line services running six times an hour from Manor Park station. In addition, it’s multicultural make-up, particularly a strong South East Asian influence, makes it a diverse and exciting place in comparison to the regular affluent London suburb.

For the majority of its existence, this area was largely rural land that was passed down from nobleman to nobleman. This is reflected in the name of nearby Manor Park. In the 18th century the open land was known for its annual cattle market that brought animals from Wales, Scotland, and the north of England. Locals resisted any form of encroachment from developers and nearby landowners, nevertheless, the arrival of Manor Park station in 1872 ushered the Victorian period into the neighbourhood. It was during this time that the area’s architectural style was consolidated, as the classic red terraced houses that are recognisable today were built, and the Wanstead Flats became preserved under the Epping Forest Act of 1878. Cattle were allowed to graze freely on the flats until 1996, when the Mad Cow Disease crisis put a stop to it.

In July 2018, there was a huge fire on Wanstead Flats, caused by the summer’s heatwave and consequent dry conditions. It was the most extreme grass fire ever dealt with by the London Fire Brigade. At its largest, the blaze covered the size of 100 football pitches, and required 220 firefighters and 40 fire engines to contain it. Luckily, nobody was hurt.

Due to its residential nature, this isn’t the most lively of areas although Romford road is a significant asset to its residents. The Northern community in Aldersbrook in particular may struggle for access to decent amenities and transport links due its nestled location within parkland areas.

The area’s incorporation of the protected green spaces, particularly Wanstead Flats, limits the possibility of large developments. However, the opening of the Elizabeth line through Forest Gate Station and Manor Park station will likely be the impetus for changes to the local environment. When combined with the area’s suburban characteristics this new transport link makes the area attractive for commuters.