A New Era for Museums in East London
Museums are typically places of quiet reflection and education. They inform, inspire, and sometimes challenge visitors to think differently. However, they rarely provoke a physical reaction—until now. At the newly opened V&A East Museum, visitors have been seen swaying, and some even dancing, all while wearing headphones that play an immersive soundtrack.
This decade-long project has finally come to life, marking a significant addition to London’s cultural landscape. Situated in Stratford, the museum is part of a broader wave of developments that have transformed the city in recent years. These include the V&A East Storehouse, the David Bowie Centre, and the renovated Young V&A. Located near the BBC, Sadler’s Wells East, and UAL, V&A East is a bold step forward for the institution.
A Museum for Everyone
Designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind, V&A East feels more welcoming than its South Kensington counterpart. It aims to attract younger creatives who may feel out of place in traditional museums. The two permanent galleries, titled Why We Make, explore creativity across art, architecture, design, performance, and fashion. Each gallery is organized around themes such as identity, wellbeing, social justice, and environmental action.
The exhibition features both emerging and established artists. Visitors can see Jamie Hawkesworth’s iconic photographs of Preston Bus Station, as well as pieces by well-known names like Molly Goddard’s pink tulle dress, which was featured in Killing Eve and Beyoncé’s Black Is King. A 90s ensemble by Vivienne Westwood also makes an appearance.
A Journey Through Black British Music
The standout feature of the museum is its temporary exhibition on Black British music. This exhibit traces the influence of Black British music from 1900 to today, highlighting its impact on British culture and beyond. It doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, including the horrors of the slave trade and the experiences of racism faced by Black Brits.
Each section is accompanied by headphones that guide visitors through the exhibition with carefully selected songs. The music serves as a backdrop rather than a distraction, enhancing the narrative without overwhelming it. The exhibit is thoughtfully curated, offering a deep and respectful exploration of its subject.
A Shift in Tone
As the exhibition moves into more contemporary times, the tone shifts. Visitors begin to relax, swaying gently to the rhythmic beats. The joyful music, filled with smiles in the singers’ voices, encourages a sense of release. This is a rare moment of unguarded joy in a museum setting, showcasing how inviting and immersive the V&A East experience truly is.
A Place to Relax and Reflect
After exploring the exhibition, take your time. Head up to the terrace for panoramic views of East London. From here, you can see the remnants of the 2012 Olympics, repurposed spaces, and Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park—all part of the growing East Bank cultural quarter.
Don’t forget to visit the café and restaurant downstairs. This isn’t just any museum café; it’s a new branch of the popular Marylebone restaurant Jikoni. Founded by Ravinder Bhogal and Nadeem Lalani Nanjuwany, the restaurant offers vibrant global fusion dishes and sweet treats.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re planning a day trip, consider staying at YOTELPAD Stratford. This budget-friendly hotel is located just seven minutes from Stratford station and 15 minutes from Westfield. It’s also a 20-minute walk from the museum, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.
The rooms are modern and stylish, equipped with amenities such as 24-hour front desk service, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, smart TVs, and kitchenettes in many cases. Rooms start from £84 per night for queen-sized accommodations, while Studio PADs with kitchenettes start at £90. Accessible rooms are also available.
Final Thoughts
V&A East is more than just a museum—it’s a cultural hub that invites visitors to engage, reflect, and celebrate. With its thoughtful design, inclusive approach, and unique exhibitions, it’s clear that this is a space built for the future of museum-going. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something here for everyone.
