A visit to Tower Hamlets in East London will put you in the heart of one of the city’s principal business districts and the London Docklands. The area has many bars and clubs. A bohemian and trendy culture has transformed much of the famously impoverished East End in the 20th century. Follow the River Thames east from the city center and get a sense of the traditional London of Dickens.

Walk around the business zone of Canary Wharf and gaze up at modern skyscrapers visible from parks across the city. Stroll west beside the River Thames and reach St. Katherine’s Dock, a historic harbor overlooked by traditional pubs. On the other side of the docks stands the iconic Tower Bridge, a 19th-century crossing featured on many souvenirs and postcards. Visit the impressive Tower of London and see its Crown Jewels belonging to the monarchy.

Away from the glitzy gems of the tower and the glassy high-rises of the business zone stands the Old Spitalfields Market. Chat with the stall vendors and choose from the diverse range of snacks and drinks. For variety, try the Roman Road Market, the Backyard Market and the Columbia Road Flower Market. Admire the East London Mosque, one of the largest in the country.

Much of this borough was explored by American writer Jack London in his non-fiction book The People of the Abyss, at the beginning of the 20th century. He wrote a first-hand account of the systemic poverty here, before the area was regenerated.

Tower Hamlets borough marks the eastern side of London, between the city center and the Stratford district. Travel by Tube, the Overground train or the DLR light-rail system to one of the many stops dotted across this large area. While you’re here, consider going to other neighboring districts such as Hackney, Greenwich and Stoke Newington.