East Walk

This winter waterway walk will start at Hackney Wick, passing by the Olympic Park and down through the colourful canals of Hackney. Watch out for birds enjoying the waters and sitting atop a mixture of canal boats.
 

See artwork covering the architecture as you wander down toward Walthamstow Marshes, where sweeping landscapes home to over 400 plant and animal species spread out, and Walthamstow Wetlands, where you can explore the breath-taking reservoirs.

Start point: Hackney Wick Overground Station,

End point: Walthamstow Wetlands

Length/time: 2 hours, 3,5 miles

Accessibility: Parts of the walk may not be accessible, as it includes crossing cattle grids and navigating narrow pathways.

Recommended footwear: Comfortable shoes but wellies/walking boots not necessary, as the route is predominantly paved paths. 

Dogs: Please note that the final section of this walk includes an optional visit to Walthamstow Wetlands, where we have an assistance dogs only policy.

Wildlife to see: Familiarise yourself with our wildlife spotter sheet for this route

Walk Route

Directions: Hackney Wick to Walthamstow Wetlands

1. Start at Hackney Wick Overground Station:
   • Exit the station and walk straight up White Post Lane.
   • Turn left and continue walking up the road.
2. Cross the Bridge:
   • Walk onto the bridge with the Olympic Stadium on your right.
   • Turn right onto the cobblestone path and head down, taking another right under the bridge.
3. Follow the River Lee Navigation:
   • Walk along the towpath for 2.2 miles.
   • When the path ends, cross the bridge on your left to continue on the opposite side of the canal.
4. Pass the Princess of Wales Pub:
   • Continue along the towpath, passing the Princess of Wales Pub, until you reach Lee Valley Park Bridge.
   • Cross the bridge to your right-hand side.
5. Through Walthamstow Marshes:
   • Walk straight across the cattle grid.
   • Continue along the path beneath the railway arches.
6. Onto Copper Mill Lane:
   • Follow the pathway as it curves left onto Copper Mill Lane.
   • Turn right onto Copper Mill Lane, passing under a low bridge.
7. Enter Walthamstow Wetlands:
   • Continue along the path until you see a signpost for Walthamstow Wetlands.
   • Turn left into the reserve to explore.