Leytonstone

The name “Leytonstone” is derived from “Leyton-atte-Stone”, the stone in question being a Roman military marker now commonly known as the “High Stone”. This can still be seen today at the junction of Holly Bush Hill and New Wanstead Road. The stone was moved from it’s original position when the A12 road extension was built at the tail end of the 1990’s.

Until the latter part of the 19th century, Leytonstone was a beautiful, sleeply hamlet. However, the arrival of the railway brought with it a massive population explosion and Leytonstone very quickly grew. Many of the Victorian houses built then are still home to Leytonstone’s residents today, particularly in the Upper Leytonstone and Bushwood areas.

Wanstead

The name “Wanstead” appears in the Domesday Book (1086), however settlements have existed there from at least Roman times (excavations in Wanstead Park during the 18th century revealed extensive remains of a Roman villa).

Many large houses were built in and around Wanstead, particularly during the 18th century. None were grander than Wanstead House, “an English Versailles” which was tragically demolished in 1824.