Next Stop – 900 Years of Public Transport in Tower Hamlets
19 July - 21 February, 2026
Launching next month, our new exhibition Next Stop explores the fascinating history of public transport in the East End over nine centuries. It spans the construction of the Bow Bridge in the 12th century, the opening of the Elizabeth Line in the 21st, and the Victorian innovations in steam and underground travel in between.
Showcasing over 100 unique items from the collections of Tower Hamlets Local History Library & Archives, the exhibition documents many changes and evolutions in public transport - tollgates, trolleybuses and trams included! The exhibition also features first-hand testimonies of people who have used or worked on different forms of public transport, past and present. Through newspaper cuttings, photographs, maps, oral history recordings and creative work, Next Stop aims to share both personal and archival knowledge about the history of public transport in the East End.
This is the first exhibition we have curated that is designed for both adults and children. An illustrated timeline, interactive games and artwork by local school pupils are all included in the exhibition, so the whole family can be entertained on their visit.
Free entry! Please check opening hours before visiting.
Programme of events will be updated on our What's On page.
Where to find us:
Tower Hamlets Local History Library and Archives, 277 Bancroft Road, London E1 4DQ