Features

From healing spaces to Islamic gardens, the new programme of speakers for Aldersbrook Horticultural Society’s monthly meetings covers a wide range of topics. Ruth Martin reports

Chess has come a long way recently but there is still a missing piece, says 18-year-old Jay Demetriou, whose membership of Wanstead and Woodford Chess Club has helped him connect with the community

The Wanstead Book Festival, part of the Wanstead Fringe festivities, is once again hosting a wide range of talents and authors working in various styles, writes Giles Wilson

The music programme at Wanstead Fringe 2025 brings a rich mix of community and creativity, with events taking place at what are turning into some of the area’s most beloved Fringe venues. Giles Wilson reports

Don’t only enjoy viewing the art achievements of others. Take delight in helping to produce some community artwork yourself, suggests Donna Mizzi, founder of Art Group Wanstead

Live theatre is one of the main pillars of any fringe festival, and Wanstead is no different. Camille Leadbeater runs through some of the plays she’s looking forward to this September

With real ale, real community spirit and really good causes, Wanstead Beer Festival returns this October with more brews, new names and a fundraising mission. Paul Donovan reports

There’s a buzz in the air. Just like in the grand drawing rooms of Wanstead House in the early 19th century, word is spreading: something’s happening in Wanstead, writes Camille Leadbeater

From Edinburgh to Lagos, fringe festivals are about community, creativity and celebration. And that applies to Wanstead as well, writes Camille Leadbeater ahead of 23 days of cultural activity on our doorstep

From unfair dismissal to zero-hour contracts, Mariam Zaadane from local solicitors Edwards Duthie Shamash explains some of the key proposed reforms in the Employment Rights Bill

In the 13th of a series of articles looking at the redevelopment of Whipps Cross Hospital, Charlotte Monro explains why the Action4Whipps community campaign is needed now more than ever before

The Barrel Boulangerie on Wanstead High Street is now displaying a wide range of paintings by local adult students. Yet, art can do even more than create beautiful surroundings. Donna Mizzi reports