Did you know that...
The most important landmark of Stepney E1 is St Dunstan’s Church. It was built in 923. A small group of people settled around the church but it would take almost 1000 more years for the village to turn into a proper settlement. Stepney quickly developed in the 1800s.
Stepney City Farm is an urban farm located in the district. It’s a place where Stepney E1 school children and visitors can learn more about farming and related crafts. The Farm can be visited for free.
An English physician Richard Mead (1673-1754), whose contribution to the understanding of transmissible diseases cannot be overemphasized, was born in Stepney.
An English heavyweight boxer William Thomas Wells (1889-1967) was widely known under the name “Bombardier Billy Wells”. He defended his title of was British and British Empire Champion fourteen times during his career.
A singer and film composer Monty Norman (1928) was born in Stepney and became famous for composing the music to the first James Bond movie, including the legendary “James Bond Theme”.
A writer and composer Lionel Bart (1930-1999) is considered to be a creator of the birth of British pop, a winner of The Tony Award and six Academy Awards. He is also known as the sole creator of the world-famous musical OLIVER!
An English actor Terence Henry Stamp (1938) was born in Stepney to become a great actor who has appeared in over 60 films so far. His masterful performance was clearly apparent even in his film debut in 1962, as he won several awards for the title role of Billy Budd.
An English television executive and presenter Alan Yentob (1947) is another famous person originating from Stepney, who devoted his entire life to the promoting quality television, namely, the various BBC programs and films.