And off I go!

I’m heading east, across the river to the Hackney Marshes, and more specifically, to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

That’s where you’ll find the brand-new, absolutely spanking V&A East Storehouse! My journey from Brixton to East London is thanks to my trusty over-60 bus pass – what a lifesaver! The bus route is actually brilliant for sightseeing. I’ll cross the river by London Bridge, catch a quick glimpse of Leadenhall Market, cruise through Shoreditch, then Bethnal Green, and then I’ll be exploring totally new territory around Victoria Park before arriving at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Good thing I packed lunch!

I knew I was getting closer to my final destination when I spotted the canal boats while crossing the River Lea, arriving at Here East. The architecture here is totally different – bright, large buildings forming a vibrant hub of tech, students, and innovators, right next to the Hackney Marshes. You’ll easily spot the V&A East Storehouse nestled on the side of that impressive complex.

Stepping inside the Storehouse, you immediately get the feeling you’re in for a treat, and I certainly wasn’t disappointed! It’s wonderfully big, airy, and bright, with the outside light streaming in from all those amazing glass windows.

I made my way up the escalator and instantly found myself immersed in a huge storage display of incredible items. We’re talking modern masterpieces, heritage treasures from Roman frescos, furniture, ceramics, swords, and even clothes and textiles! There’s the remarkable Kaufmann Office with its stunning “marquetry plywood wall,” plus carpets, a 15th-century Spanish ceiling, some glittering costumes, and so much more. The best part? You can scan the QR code to discover more about every single object on display.

But what truly struck me was the feeling of not being in just another museum with a single theme. This place is a magnificent collision of history, culture, and curiosities. It’s a constant diversity of themes and stories, a place you’ll want to come back to and explore further. Plus, it’s fascinating to simply watch the continual stream of staff working on restoration and preservation right before your eyes.