Discover a unique London mews where community bonds thrive amidst 19th-century charm, untouched by modern city life.
The street features 19th-century cottages. Bombs nearly destroyed them during World War II. Odd-numbered houses survived, while even-numbered houses were rebuilt later.
Adam lives there with Neil. “Neighbors look out for each other,” he said; they share a garden and care for each other’s pets.
Their house was once a shop that sold haberdashery items. Some storefront details still exist. Number seven was a florist, number five was a butcher shop, and number eleven was a hairdressers.
The houses still have shop fronts decorated with painted shutters. Stepney Green Farm is nearby, and St Dustan’s Church stands close too. The street feels peaceful.
An old shop’s name is still visible on one house, partially hidden by red paint. Now, shops are houses. Life on Durham Row remains vibrant; they host Christmas drinks and played bingo safely during lockdown.
The community feeling is clear, a contrast to many city people who don’t know their neighbors. Adam knew nobody at his old flats.
The council added cobblestones, and old lampposts maintain its old feeling. Adam says people ask about the history, and he hopes to stay there long.
David Pack lived there for 60 years. His father was the butcher there, and he still lives in his dad’s shop. “There were all shops,” he said, believing the street lost character when they closed.
His dad went to market at dawn, and the butcher shop closed at seven. Moving there made life easier. Most residents are around the same age. They use a WhatsApp group to plan parties and drinks often.
David says they welcome new people with a party. The street has a shared garden, and potted plants line the fence. David likes the flowers, and the atmosphere is good. It’s different from Tower Hamlets.