Ilford and Gants Hill Overview
Image courtesy of Sunil060902
This area is a lively part of North East London, where you can shop a lot, be entertained, eat great food, and relax! It’s one of the largest retail centres in London and boasts a huge range of restaurants, cafes and pubs. Located in the London borough of Redbridge, Ilford and Gants Hill is really close to Stratford, home to the 2012 Olympics, as well as Wanstead that contains the woodland of Wanstead Park. It’ll only take you 15 minutes to get into central London via Ilford Train Station, or 25 minutes from Gants Hill Tube Station that’s in London Travel Zone 4.
Travel information
In these areas, the nearest London Underground stations are Gants Hill and Redbridge which are on the Central Line and can take you to locations such as Liverpool Street, Stratford and Shepherd’s Bush.
There is also Ilford railway station which can take you to various location in and out of London.
There are a number of bus routes in the areas such as the bus route number 150, 167 and 296 which can take you to various locations such Chigwell, Loughton and Romford.
History
Image courtesy of Ben Brooksbank
Ilford’s name was first recorded in the Domesday Book of 1086 as Ilefort which means “ford over the Hyle”. “Hyle” is an old name for the River Roding that means “trickling stream”. Little Ilford shares the name origin.
Gants Hill’s name either originates from the le Gant family who were stewards of Barking Abbey or it derives from ‘Gnats Cross’ in reference to the insects. The name Gantesgrave appears in records as early as 1291.
A number of well-known people were born, raised or lived in Ilford and Gants Hill throughout the years, some of these people include:
• Nigel Benn (Boxer)
• Simon Amstell (Comedian, television presenter, screenwriter and actor)
• Eva Hart (was a survivor of the sinking of the RMS Titanic)
• Amanda Rosario (Actress)
• Dame Margaret Natalie Smith (Actress)
Local attractions
There are a number of fun things to do in both Ilford and Gants Hill, from going to the cycling centre to the various museums in the area. You will have many things to do to stop yourself from being bored!
Redbridge Museum
Image courtesy of Sunil060902
Redbridge Museum explores the many different people, places and events which are part of the history of Redbridge. Since the museum opened in 2000, it has worked with loads of local people, has produced more than 70 exhibitions and displays and attracted more than 200,000 visitors. Redbridge Museum creates a sense of place and belonging for local residents from diverse backgrounds. It is a unique learning resource for children, families and general visitors and increases the quality of life for local residents and visitors to the area!
For more information, click here
Valentines Park
Image courtesy of Sludge G
Valentines Park is the largest green space in the London Borough of Redbridge and is situated between Ilford Town Centre and Gants Hill.
It is a lovely place to go to if you simply want to get away from the hustle and bustle which is London. Whether simply want to lie down and relax or go for a walk through the park, Valentines Park is a great place to do this!
For more information, click here
Kenneth More Theatre
Image courtesy of Sunil060902
Kenneth More Theatre is a great theatre that has served this community for over 50 years! It is named after the beloved British actor Kenneth More who starred in popular British films such as Genevieve (1953), Doctor in the House (1954) for which he won a BAFTA award, and Reach for the Sky (1956).
To see what is being shown at this lovely theatre, click here
Redbridge Cycling Centre
Image courtesy of Roger Smith
Redbridge Cycling Centre is an awesome facility for cyclists of all abilities. They have various kinds of bikes which you can hire including mountain bikes, road bikes and BMXs. The Centre can also provide cycle coaching to groups and individuals from complete beginners through to experienced riders.
For more information, click here
Accommodation in Ilford or Gants Hill
If you are interested in booking a homestay in or around Ilford/Gants Hill (Zone 4+), click here to apply.
