Local area guide

Living in Forest Gate

Thinking about moving to Forest Gate? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools are like, transport connections and so much more.

Your guide to moving to Forest Gate

Why Forest Gate is a good place to live

Forest Gate, perched on the edge of Wanstead Flats' verdant landscapes, is blooming into a delightful place to live. Not just a haven for nature lovers, moving to Forest Gate means you’re never far from a delectable dining experience or a quirky café. Replete with under-the-radar pubs housing enormous beer gardens and family-friendly activities for the little ones, it's a place that caters to all tastes. Living in Forest Gate, you’re also perfectly situated to explore the wider city with excellent transport links. And for those who crave a slice of tranquility amidst urban life, the stunning Epping Forest leisurely sprawls just around the corner.

What's Forest Gate famous for?

Forest Gate has enjoyed being the home of some rather famous personalities. Hollywood star, Arnold Schwarzenegger, famously lived here when training for bodybuilding in the mid-1960s. The area also boasts an active and thriving music scene with the Upper Cut Club being a prominent musical site in the 60s, with legends like Jimi Hendrix and Nina Simone gracing its stage. In addition, Forest Gate is famous for its fascinating blend of Victorian architecture and its multicultural food scene that keeps foodies coming back for more.

Things to do in Forest Gate

In the heart of Forest Gate, nature calls to you, inviting you to embark on leisurely strolls in Wanstead Park or engage in wildlife watching around Wanstead Flats. The local food scene is a smorgasbord of treats waiting to be explored, with places offering Asian delicacies, vegetarian fare, artisan South African baked goods, Italian produce, and much more. Have your fill of culture at The Red House, a local gem that hosts jazz sessions and arts performances. Looking to unwind after a long day? Pop into the family-run Ciderhouse or enjoy craft beers at The Wanstead Tap. With so much on offer, there’s never a dull moment in Forest Gate.

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Properties currently for sale in Forest Gate

Whether you're looking to buy a family home or a beautiful apartment, we've got you covered.

Transport in Forest Gate

Find the nearest train stations and other transport links in Forest Gate.

Local connections

Forest Gate
National Rail
0 miles / 0.0 km
Wanstead Park
National Rail
0.2 miles / 0.3 km
Maryland
National Rail
0.9 miles / 1.4 km
Woodgrange Park
National Rail
0.9 miles / 1.4 km
Manor Park
National Rail
0.9 miles / 1.4 km
Upton Park
London Underground Station
1.1 miles / 1.8 km

Schools in Forest Gate

Discover local primary schools, secondary schools and sixth form colleges in Forest Gate.

Education in Forest Gate

Forest Gate Community School
Ages: 11 - 16 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2021)
Woodgrange Infant School
Ages: 3 - 7 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2019)
Odessa Infant School
Ages: 3 - 7 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2020)
Godwin Junior School
Ages: 7 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)
St James' CofE Junior School
Ages: 7 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)
Azhar Academy Girls School
Ages: 3 - 16 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2022)

Local pubs in Forest Gate

In partnership with
useyourlocal
  • Forest Gate Hotel

    London E7

    Offering very basic accommodation and is therefore ideal for tourists and students who are travelling on a budget. Rates are considerably cheaper than those of more central hotels, and transport links from Forest Gate make travelling around East London ea

  • Rising Sun

    London E7

    Ex-Bass Charrington pub. Substantial three-storey building, with fancy white stonework, granite columns, sky blue trims. Small public bar at front, separate from the main bar behind, which connects to a games room in a rear extension with four pool tables

  • Golden Fleece

    London E12

    Join us to cheer on Harry Kane and the England boys this summer!