Stratford area guide

London College of Fashion (LCF), UAL is based in Stratford, east London, as part of the East Bank development, a new cultural quarter for innovation, creativity and learning at the heart of Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Once home to the 2012 London Olympics, the area has been transformed into a lively hub and the perfect base for studying and exploring the capital.

Life at LCF goes far beyond the classroom. London brings people together from all over the world and gives you endless chances to explore, be inspired and meet new people. Our east London home is a vibrant blend of culture, food, art and community. There’s plenty to discover, and here’s just a taste of what you can enjoy in the local area.

Our home on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park gives you a unique place to study. Step outside the building and you’re in the middle of 560 acres of parkland, riverside walks and green spaces. The Park brings together nature, leisure, retail and community spaces, offering plenty of ways to relax, exercise and socialise.

You’ll find gardens, cafés and walking routes all year round. Grab a coffee, follow the art trail, or take a tour to discover local wildlife. You can also hire a bike to explore or even rent a swan pedalo and drift along the river right outside our doors. With Secure by Design accreditation, the Park is as safe as it is inspiring.

A short walk from our building is Westfield Stratford City. It’s one of the largest shopping centres in Europe, with over 200 high street shops plus restaurants, cafés, supermarkets and entertainment venues. You’ll also find a cinema and a bowling alley, making it a perfect place to explore with friends.

The Park is also home to the London Aquatics Centre, hotels, gyms and the ArcelorMittal Orbit. This striking viewing platform includes the world’s largest tunnel slide (76 metres high and 178 metres long) for those brave enough to try the quick way down.

Right opposite LCF is London Stadium. As well as being home to West Ham United Football Club, it hosts major sporting events and concerts such as athletics and baseball. Past performers have included Beyoncé, Jay-Z, The Weeknd and Foo Fighters.

Explore exclusive discounts for LCF students.

Stratford is fast becoming a cultural hub, and we’re lucky to have world-class venues right on our doorstep. Our Cultural Programme run a full host of activities, events and exhibitions in our own spaces, but you won’t have to go far to find even more.

Our neighbours include Sadler’s Wells East, offering professional dance productions alongside workshops for all ages and abilities. Next door, V&A East Museum offers major shows from leading artists and resources that support and inspire our students. Just a short walk down the river is V&A East Storehouse, a new experience that lets you see behind the scenes of a working museum, and even book one-to-one sessions with objects from the collection.

Close to Stratford is Hackney, a creative and eclectic hub that’s known as one of London’s most exciting neighbourhoods. Recognised for its vibrant arts scene, diverse culture, independent shops, and thriving nightlife, there’s always something happening to inspire and entertain. Enjoy a live gig or club night at MOTH Club, try cocktails and karaoke at Oslo, or catch big-name acts at Hackney Empire.

If you’re into fitness, head to London Fields Lido, an Olympic-sized outdoor pool that’s heated and open all year. When it’s time to eat, Hackney has you covered, from food markets at Victoria Park and independent restaurants to major chains, with options for every taste and budget.