Beyond the Bow Bells:
Tales from East London's voices
Step into the rich tapestry of East London's cultural heritage through our Oral Histories section. At the heart of this journey is Cockney Rhyming Slang, a linguistic treasure trove that's both a starting point and a vibrant thread in the fabric of our diverse community. But we delve deeper. Here, you'll explore the multitude of voices that call East London home, each narrating their unique stories, experiences, and connections to this remarkable region. Welcome to the immersive world of East London's linguistic and cultural evolution, where every voice tells a tale worth listening to.
Cockney Heritage
Discover Cockney's vibrant history, born in the eclectic blend of East London's streets. From its 1859 roots, it's an evolving treasure, embodying pride and linguistic innovation.
11 Audios
Cockney Rhyming Slang
Dive into the colorful world of Cockney Rhyming Slang, where language becomes artistry, reflecting the spirited pulse of East London's bustling and diverse community.
9 Audios
Social Landscape
Uncover the social dynamics that shape East London, addressing challenges, triumphs, and ongoing efforts to build a stronger, more inclusive community.
22 Audios
Explore Transcript Collection
Experience inclusivity with our transcript section, ensuring audio accessibility for all. Delve into the wealth of narratives through written transcripts, providing an accessible gateway for those seeking to engage with our content in a text format. Embracing diversity, our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond spoken words, making the stories within our collection accessible to everyone.
Record your own Oral History Interview
Find out how to add your own stories to our Voices of East Bank website. There are so many oral histories waiting to be told, while many other projects have already taken place. We are keen to share as many oral histories as we can to continue sharing East London’s rich history. Click below to find out more.
All recordings are now available at Newham Archive. Please contact the archive for access.
With special thanks to Roberto Belo-Rovella for editing our audio clips.
Cockney Heritage images: 'Pie and Mash' by Gordon Joly, captured at Chrisp Street Market (East India Dock Road). Licensed under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. Copyright © Gordon Joly. Link to the original image: View Image.
Thank You to Our Supporters
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all our partners and supporters. Your dedication and contributions are instrumental in making Voices of East Bank a powerful platform for storytelling, education, and community engagement.