Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island: East London's Historic Riverside Retreat
Historic tidal mills meet tranquil riverside green space in East London’s unique Three Mills Island and Green.
Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island in East London is a serene and historic riverside park featuring one of the world's largest tidal mills, lush green spaces, and a family-friendly playground. Nestled along the River Lea, this unique site blends industrial heritage with natural beauty, offering visitors peaceful walks, picnic spots, and a glimpse into London's past with the iconic House Mill and Clock Mill nearby.
A brief summary to Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island
- Three Mill Ln, London, E3 3DU, GB
- +443000030610
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit on a sunny day to fully enjoy the playground and picnic areas along the scenic waterways.
- Explore the House Mill on summer Sunday afternoons when guided tours are available.
- Bring waterproof footwear during wet weather as the grassy areas can get muddy.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the Lea Valley Walk to experience more of East London’s natural beauty.
- Check event schedules for occasional small-scale music or theatrical performances held on the green.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From central London, take the District or Hammersmith & City Line to Bromley-by-Bow station. From there, it is a 15-20 minute walk along Three Mill Lane to the park. Alternatively, use the London Overground to Stratford and connect with local buses 108 or 448, which stop near Three Mills Green. Expect travel times of 30-45 minutes with fares typically under £5 using an Oyster or contactless card.
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Car
Driving from central London via the A12 and A118 towards East London, then onto Three Mill Lane. Parking near Three Mills Green is very limited and on-street only, so plan to park in nearby residential areas and walk. Travel time is approximately 25-35 minutes depending on traffic. Be aware the area is within London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ), so charges may apply.
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Walking
If staying near Bromley-by-Bow or Bow Road stations, walking to Three Mills Green takes about 20-30 minutes on mostly flat terrain. The route follows urban streets and Three Mill Lane, suitable for most walkers and families.
Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Three Mills Green & Three Mills Island
A Living Testament to London's Industrial Heritage
Three Mills Island is home to the House Mill, built in 1776, which stands as the largest surviving tidal mill in the world. This Grade I listed Georgian building, with its distinctive brick and timber façade, was historically powered by the tides of the River Lea, milling grain primarily for London's gin distilleries. Alongside the House Mill is the Clock Mill, rebuilt in the early 19th century, both representing the area's rich industrial past. Though the mills ceased operation in the mid-20th century, their preserved structures offer a fascinating window into London's industrial revolution and tidal milling technology.A Tranquil Riverside Green Space for All Ages
Three Mills Green provides approximately 23,500 square meters of open, mostly flat grassy space, accented by gentle amphitheatre-style mounds. This park is an inviting spot for families, featuring a well-maintained children’s adventure playground and outdoor table tennis tables. Its location along the Bow Back Rivers and the River Lea offers scenic waterside views, ideal for leisurely strolls, picnics, and quiet contemplation. The green's open layout makes it a peaceful refuge from the urban bustle, while the surrounding waterways enhance its natural charm.A Hub of Creativity and Community Activity
Adjacent to the historic mills is the vibrant 3 Mills Studios, a prominent film and TV production complex that has hosted major projects such as "The Crown." This creative hub integrates seamlessly with the island’s heritage, fostering a dynamic atmosphere where history and modern culture coexist. Throughout the year, Three Mills Green hosts small-scale events, performances, and community gatherings, enriching the local cultural scene and offering visitors engaging experiences beyond the park’s natural and historic appeal.Ecological and Recreational Significance
The area around Three Mills is recognized as a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation, with the surrounding rivers supporting diverse wildlife habitats. The park’s open green space and riverbanks provide opportunities for birdwatching and nature appreciation. Its connection to the 50-mile Lea Valley Walk invites walkers and cyclists to explore the wider Lee Valley Regional Park, linking urban London with extensive natural landscapes.Future Developments and Urban Renewal
Nearby, the Sugar House Island development is transforming the historic industrial district into a new business and residential area, expected to create thousands of jobs and modern waterside amenities. This ongoing regeneration reflects the balance between preserving heritage and embracing contemporary urban growth, with Three Mills Island remaining a cherished green and cultural landmark within this evolving landscape.Visitor Experience and Practical Details
Visitors to Three Mills Green & Island can enjoy unrestricted access year-round, with the park open 24 hours daily. While there are no on-site restrooms or food outlets, nearby public transport options and the proximity to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park make it convenient for day trips. The site’s soft ground can become muddy after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with historical intrigue and family-friendly facilities, makes Three Mills a rewarding destination for both locals and tourists seeking a unique blend of nature, history, and culture.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Stairway to Heaven, Bethnal Green Memorial
3.3 km
A powerful inverted staircase memorial in Bethnal Green Gardens, honouring the 173 civilians who died in the 1943 tube shelter disaster, the worst civilian loss of life in Britain during WWII.
Execution Dock
3.8 km
A haunting riverside landmark where London’s maritime law was enforced through centuries of public executions.
King Henry’s Stairs (Execution Dock)
4.4 km
Historic Thames foreshore site where pirates and maritime criminals faced grim justice under Admiralty law for over 400 years.
The Captain Kidd
4.4 km
Historic riverside pub with authentic maritime charm, classic ales, and scenic Thames views in London’s Wapping district.
St Mary’s, Whitechapel (The White Chapel)
4.4 km
Historic site of St Mary’s Whitechapel, the iconic White Chapel that shaped East London’s identity and now commemorated as Altab Ali Park.
Ornamental Canal
4.4 km
Explore the serene Ornamental Canal in London, a picturesque waterway perfect for relaxation, scenic views, and rich history.
Brick Ln
4.5 km
East London's ever-evolving cultural heart, where centuries of immigration, street art, and multicultural heritage converge on a single vibrant street.
Greenwich Foot Tunnel North
4.5 km
Walk beneath the Thames through 200,000 white tiles in this 1902 engineering marvel.
Princelet St
4.6 km
Discover the historical beauty of Princelet Street in London, a notable street rich in culture and architectural charm, perfect for every traveler.
Brick Lane Mosque
4.6 km
A 280-year architectural chronicle of immigrant faith, where Huguenots, Jews, and Bangladeshis have each found spiritual sanctuary.
Execution Dock House
4.6 km
Historic riverside site where pirates and maritime criminals met justice in London’s centuries-old Admiralty executions.
Cutty Sark
4.6 km
Step aboard the world's fastest tea clipper, suspended in time above Greenwich's Thames, where echoes of ocean races and salty decks invite maritime dreams.
Anchor Iron Wharf
4.6 km
Historic riverside wharf in Greenwich marked by a large anchor sculpture, blending maritime heritage with stunning Thames views.
Leytonstone
4.7 km
Explore London's vibrant heritage at Leytonstone Underground Station, a beautifully adorned transit hub connecting you to the city's highlights.
Arnold Circus
4.7 km
Arnold Circus: The historic heart of London's first council estate, born from slum clearance and social reform, now a vibrant community landmark.
Unmissable attractions to see
High St
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant heart of London’s retail heritage where history, culture, and shopping converge on High Street.
ABBA Arena
0.8 km
Experience ABBA like never before in London’s groundbreaking ABBA Arena, where music meets cutting-edge digital spectacle.
The Bow Bells
0.9 km
Historic East End pub with over 150 years of Cockney spirit, lively sports, and a warm, authentic atmosphere on Bow Road.
ArcelorMittal Orbit
1.3 km
Experience London’s tallest sculpture, panoramic Olympic Park views, and the world’s longest tunnel slide all in one iconic landmark.
London Stadium
1.4 km
Experience the iconic London Stadium, home to West Ham United and a legacy of Olympic glory, sports, and world-class entertainment.
London Aquatics Centre
1.4 km
Experience world-class swimming and diving in Zaha Hadid’s iconic London Aquatics Centre, a legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Tower Hamlets Cemetery Park
1.5 km
A historic Victorian cemetery transformed into a tranquil nature reserve and green sanctuary in East London’s heart.
Westfield Stratford City
1.7 km
Discover East London's largest urban shopping centre with 300+ shops, diverse dining, entertainment, and community spirit at Westfield Stratford City.
Copper Box Arena
2.1 km
A dynamic sports arena blending Olympic legacy with community spirit in the heart of London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.
Mile End Park
2.2 km
A vibrant 32-hectare linear park blending nature, art, and sport along Regent’s Canal in East London.
Ragged School Museum
2.2 km
Explore Victorian East End life and the pioneering free education movement at London’s Ragged School Museum, housed in historic canal warehouses.
St Anne's Church, Limehouse
2.4 km
Explore the historic St Anne's Church in Limehouse, a serene Anglican church rich in history and architectural beauty in the heart of London.
Billingsgate Market
2.4 km
Explore Billingsgate Market, London’s historic and largest inland fish market, bustling with fresh seafood and rich maritime heritage.
Victoria Park
2.4 km
London’s largest historic park offering scenic lakes, vibrant community events, and year-round green space in the heart of the East End.
West India Quay
2.5 km
Where London’s maritime heritage meets vibrant waterfront dining, culture, and luxury living in the heart of the Docklands.
Essential places to dine
Da Terra Restaurant
3.4 km
Experience innovative two-Michelin-star Modern European cuisine with vibrant Brazilian influences in the heart of East London’s historic Bethnal Green.
Behind Restaurant
3.7 km
An intimate Michelin-starred fish tasting restaurant in London Fields offering immersive chef-served seasonal menus in an open kitchen setting.
Nomadic community
4.3 km
A colorful, community-driven urban garden near Brick Lane, blending street art, creativity, and green space in East London’s vibrant cultural scene.
Brawn
4.4 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Midpoint Restaurant
4.6 km
Authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dining with riverside views and warm hospitality in London’s vibrant SE10 district.
Sefa Restaurant
4.8 km
Savor authentic Turkish and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality in the heart of Greenwich.
Lyle's
4.8 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Mattarello Chiodo Bolognese Restaurant
4.9 km
Authentic Bolognese pasta and gluten-free Italian delights in the heart of London’s Middlesex Street.
Barcelona Tapas Bar & Restaurant
4.9 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in the heart of London’s City since 1991.
The Sail Loft, Greenwich
5.0 km
Stylish riverside dining in Greenwich with panoramic Thames views, modern British cuisine, and versatile event spaces.
The Clove Club
5.0 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
5.0 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
5.0 km
Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Goddards at Greenwich
5.1 km
Experience authentic British pie and mash at Goddards at Greenwich, a historic eatery serving traditional comfort food in a welcoming setting.
Sticks'n'Sushi Greenwich
5.1 km
Experience fresh sushi and Nordic-inspired grilled sticks in stylish Greenwich, where maritime history meets modern Japanese cuisine.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Triangle Store
3.8 km
Independent East London boutique championing sustainable fashion, ethical homeware, and conscious living.
69b Boutique Sustainable Style
3.9 km
London’s first boutique dedicated to stylish, sustainable fashion with a focus on ethical brands and eco-friendly materials.
Backyard Market
4.5 km
Discover handmade treasures and vibrant street culture at Backyard Market, Brick Lane’s creative heart.
Brick Lane Souvenirs
4.5 km
Discover affordable, stylish London souvenirs and gifts in the heart of Brick Lane’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Brick Lane Vintage Market
4.6 km
Explore the UK’s largest underground vintage market, where fashion history meets East London creativity and every visit promises a unique find.
The Truman Brewery Markets
4.6 km
Historic brewery turned vibrant markets on Brick Lane, offering vintage treasures, global street food, and creative culture in East London.
DPUS Designer Outlet
4.6 km
Authentic designer fashion outlet in Shoreditch’s historic Old Truman Brewery, blending luxury style with urban culture and unbeatable prices.
Fashion St
4.7 km
A historic East London street where Victorian architecture meets modern creativity, surrounded by boutiques, cafés, and vibrant community life.
Sclater Street Market
4.7 km
Vintage treasures and eclectic finds in the heart of Shoreditch's bohemian marketplace.
Commercial St
4.8 km
Historic East London artery blending industrial heritage, vibrant markets, and cultural landmarks in the heart of Spitalfields.
Luna & Curious
4.8 km
Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
Spitalfields Market
4.9 km
Historic yet vibrant, Spitalfields Market blends East London’s rich heritage with a lively mix of food, art, and shopping all week long.
Painted hall gift shop
4.9 km
Souvenirs and stories from Greenwich's naval heart—tote bags, books, and treasures evoking the Painted Hall's timeless splendor.
Petticoat Lane Market
4.9 km
London's historic street market where 370 years of commerce, migration, and East End character converge.
Middlesex Textiles
5.0 km
Discover London’s premier West African fabric store offering vibrant, high-quality textiles with unmatched variety and service since 1969.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Eighteen Sky Bar
2.7 km
Elevate your evening with crafted cocktails and 360-degree skyline views from the 18th floor over Thames, Canary Wharf, and The O2.
All Bar One Greenwich
3.0 km
Elevate your O2 experience at this multi-floor haven of wines, cocktails, and event-night energy—perfect for pre-show feasts and lively toasts amid London's entertainment epicenter.
Satan's Whiskers
3.4 km
Discover East London's beloved cocktail bar where classic drinks meet hip-hop vibes and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
The Sun Tavern
3.6 km
Historic East End corner bar blending a vast Irish whiskey collection with lively live music and expertly crafted cocktails.
Td 338 Bar
3.7 km
Warehouse wonderland with epic sound, lush terraces, and non-stop beats—London's hidden rave escape on Greenwich Peninsula.
Behind This Wall
4.1 km
Discover Hackney’s cozy basement bar with bespoke cocktails, vintage sounds, and an intimate atmosphere that invites you to savor every sip.
The Midnight Apothecary
4.3 km
Discover a magical rooftop bar blending botanical cocktails, fire pits, and historic tunnel tours atop London’s Brunel Museum.
Apples & Pears Cocktail Bar
4.5 km
A vibrant East London cocktail bar blending creative drinks, lively DJs, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Brick Lane.
The Cocktail Trading Co. Shoreditch
4.5 km
Inventive cocktails and retro charm blend seamlessly in Shoreditch’s cozy and quirky Cocktail Trading Co.
BrewDog Shoreditch
4.6 km
Craft beer haven in Shoreditch blending bold brews, lively atmosphere, and a welcoming beer garden in the heart of East London.
The Cocktail Club - Cocktail Bar in Shoreditch
4.6 km
Experience East London's vibrant nightlife with inventive cocktails and bold Japanese-inspired art at The Cocktail Club Shoreditch.
Greenwich Town Social Club
4.7 km
Cozy Greenwich social hub for cheap drinks, karaoke nights, and neighborhood camaraderie on Blackwall Lane.
Alcotraz London: Cell Block Two-One-Two
4.7 km
Step inside Alcotraz London for a one-of-a-kind immersive prison cocktail bar adventure with live actors and bespoke drinks.
Signature Brew Haggerston
4.9 km
Where East London’s craft beer culture meets live music, creativity, and canal-side charm in a vibrant railway arch taproom.
Discount Suit Company
4.9 km
Discover a hidden vintage cocktail bar beneath Spitalfields, blending bespoke drinks with a cozy speakeasy atmosphere in London’s historic tailoring district.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
(Admin Office) The Mobile Nightclub
2.7 km
Discover the joy of nightlife on the move with The Mobile Nightclub in London, where the party comes to you!
American Express Invites Lounge
2.9 km
A backstage‑inspired, Cardmember-only lounge at The O2 with distinct seating zones, crafted drinks and a complimentary welcome drink on event nights.
LA Lounge
3.1 km
London's top Afrobeats nightclub in Docklands: ethnic sophistication, VIP vibes, cocktails, and late-night dances until 4am on weekends.
E1
4.3 km
Experience East London’s underground pulse with E1’s cutting-edge sound, immersive visuals, and vibrant club nights.
Basing House - Shoreditch
4.9 km
An intimate Shoreditch nightclub with top electronic beats, a Funktion One sound system, and a lively rooftop bar under the London skyline.
The Hoxton Pony
5.1 km
Edgy Shoreditch cocktail bar and nightclub blending vintage style with vibrant nightlife energy in East London.
Trafik
5.1 km
Shoreditch’s dynamic nightclub with underground beats, two floors of dancing, and a late licence for unforgettable nights.
CQ LOUNGE
5.2 km
South London's Afrobeats epicenter: dance, shisha, cocktails, and culture until 5am in Woolwich's vibrant CQ Lounge.
Oliver's Jazz Bar
5.3 km
Experience the soulful rhythms and vibrant atmosphere at Oliver's Jazz Bar, where great music meets delightful drinks in the heart of London.
XOYO LONDON
5.5 km
Experience Shoreditch’s iconic XOYO, where cutting-edge DJs and vibrant nightlife create an unforgettable London clubbing atmosphere.
The Bunker
6.0 km
A compact, late-night basement club on Deptford Broadway offering affordable drinks, close-up atmosphere and energetic weekend sessions.
The Steel Yard
6.1 km
Experience London’s premier industrial-chic nightclub set in historic Victorian railway arches, with world-class sound and late-night energy until 6am.
The Venue
6.1 km
A vibrant multi-room nightclub in New Cross, London, blending diverse music, cutting-edge sound, and a welcoming atmosphere since 1989.
The Hatch Club
6.1 km
A late-night New Cross club with a roomy dancefloor, VIP sections and bass-forward DJ nights—built for parties and private events.
Club 701
6.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and dynamic clubbing scene at Club 701, South London's energetic hotspot on Old Kent Road.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Family Friendly
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly