Best Places to Go Trick or Treating in East London

East London mixes urban energy with pockets of strong neighbourhood spirit — and that means plenty of great places to trick-or-treat. Whether you're after spooky vibes, a safe walk with little ones, or just hoping to fill a bucket with sweets, these are the top spots to head on 31st October.

Best Areas to Trick or Treat in East London

🎃 Wanstead

Wanstead consistently tops the list for families in East London. With its wide pavements, low-traffic roads, and rows of spacious homes, it's a perfect place for younger children to trick-or-treat safely. Streets like Overton Drive and Nightingale Lane are especially popular, with residents going all in on decorations and themed front gardens.

Local schools often encourage participation, and it’s not unusual to see entire classes out together in costume. Expect a warm, welcoming atmosphere with friendly faces and well-stocked treat tables. It’s ideal for those who want a traditional, community-led Halloween night.

🎃 Victoria Park Village

This charming pocket just east of the park transforms into a Halloween hotspot each year. Homes around Lauriston Road and Gore Road often decorate with cobwebs, ghosts, and glowing pumpkins — and the community spirit is palpable. Families gather near the park before looping around the surrounding roads for a sweet-filled stroll.

Local businesses sometimes join in too — think spooky treats from the bakery, or window displays from independent shops. It’s a manageable area to explore on foot, making it ideal for a short but satisfying Halloween circuit.

🎃 Leytonstone

Leytonstone might not be the first place you think of for Halloween — but it should be. With its diverse community and friendly residential roads, it’s become a go-to for families across Waltham Forest. Francis Road and Barclay Road are known for impressive participation, creative displays, and lots of kids out enjoying the night.

Parents often plan their routes in advance, sharing top streets in local WhatsApp groups and forums. It’s a laid-back, feel-good area to trick-or-treat — and you’ll often find that neighbours are just as excited as the kids.

🎃 Bow

Bow offers a perfect balance between accessibility and Halloween spirit. Residential streets just off Roman Road — including Medway Road and Selwyn Road — see great involvement from local families. Many houses signal their participation with pumpkins, window decals, or fairy lights, and kids are welcomed with sweets and smiles.

Bow also benefits from its flat layout and good lighting, making it easier to navigate with pushchairs or larger groups. If you’re after a route that’s easy, festive, and filled with friendly faces, Bow is a great pick.

🎃 Hackney Wick

Known more for its street art and canals than suburban calm, Hackney Wick might not scream Halloween — but dig a little deeper and you’ll find some fantastic residential pockets full of festive fun. Look for activity around Wallis Road and the areas near Trowbridge Estate, where some families get seriously creative.

You can expect a more eclectic twist on Halloween here — think handmade decorations, DJ sets spilling out of balconies, and the occasional free hot chocolate from a friendly neighbour. It’s not your classic Halloween vibe, but it’s unforgettable.

🎃 Walthamstow Village

Walthamstow Village is a total gem for Halloween. Streets like Orford Road, Eden Road and Beulah Road are known for their commitment to spooky season — with houses competing for best décor and neighbours teaming up to welcome local families.

The Village often feels like its own little world, with lanterns lighting the way, kids darting between homes, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. For families who want a fun, contained, and community-rich experience, Walthamstow Village is a must.

🎃 Stoke Newington

Stokey locals love Halloween — and it shows. Look for cobweb-covered railings and DIY haunted porches around Clissold Crescent, Queen Elizabeth's Walk, and the roads off Church Street. This area tends to attract a creative crowd, so expect quirky costumes and handmade props galore.

It’s a great route for older kids who’ll appreciate the visual flair, and for parents who want to enjoy a proper stroll between beautifully decorated homes. There’s usually a strong presence of other families too, which makes the whole experience feel safe and celebratory.

🎃 Forest Gate

Forest Gate is fast becoming one of East London’s best places for trick-or-treaters. Families along Osborne Road, Tylney Road, and Claremont Road get into the spirit with decorated windows, pumpkin trails, and even the odd spooky soundscape playing from open doors.

There’s often chatter in the local community Facebook groups, with maps shared and themes coordinated ahead of time. With plenty of space, good lighting, and enthusiastic participants, it’s a top-tier pick — especially if you’re east of Stratford.

🎃 Clapton

Clapton offers a fun mix of urban edge and festive charm. Streets around Lower Clapton Road and the Hackney Downs area tend to go big on Halloween, with creative households pulling out all the stops — from fog machines to creepy characters in the windows.

It’s a slightly busier option than Walthamstow or Wanstead, but perfect for families who want more of a buzz. And if your kids love spotting unique costume ideas, Clapton won’t disappoint — it draws in plenty of creatively dressed locals each year.

🎃 South Woodford

Right on the border of East London and Essex, South Woodford delivers a wholesome, family-friendly Halloween scene. George Lane and the streets just off it (like Buckingham Road and Cleveland Road) are known for their close-knit community and strong trick-or-treat tradition.

You’ll often find pumpkin trails, friendly signs pointing the way, and kids making the rounds in well-organised groups. If you're after a quieter, more suburban experience with a reliable sweet haul — this is the one.

Use the Trick or Treat Map!

East London is big — and not every area gets involved. That’s where the Trick or Treat Map saves the day. Use it to:

📍 Plan your perfect loop, seeing which homes are taking part
⭐ Filter for standout displays, allergy-friendly stops, and more
🗺️ Save your favourites so you don’t forget a must-visit house!
✨ Use the social functionality to send thank you's
No more aimless wandering — just a well-planned, treat filled adventure.

Related: How to Use the Trick or Treat Map Like a Pro

💬 What East Londoners Say

We asked our Trick or Treat community to input into this guide — here’s what some of them had to say!

“Walthamstow Village is unbeatable. The decorations, the vibe — we even got glow sticks last year!” — Rita, local parent

“Victoria Park Village is so lovely. Our kids went as witches, and every single house gave them something.” — Gemma, mum of three

“Forest Gate’s been our go-to for the past few years. Super friendly and really fun.” — Ash, dad of two

“Hackney Wick was a surprise hit — lots of creativity and some genuinely spooky setups!” — Noah, age 11

⚠️ Places to Approach with Caution

Not every corner of East London is Halloween-ready:

Shoreditch and parts of Stratford may be too crowded or commercial for small children
Industrial or high-rise zones may have fewer participants and poor lighting
And of course, skip homes that are unlit or undecorated.

Happy Haunting, East London! 🕸️

Best Places to go Trick or Treating in East London