Welcome to East London, the birthplace and early home of the notorious Kray twins, Ronnie and Reggie. Located in the heart of East London, East London is steeped in history, both dark and transformative, and served as the backdrop for the Krays’ rise to infamy.
The Early Years in East London
Born in 1933, the Kray brothers grew up in East London, a bustling area known for its working-class roots, gritty streets, and proximity to London’s criminal underworld. In a modest family home, Ronnie and Reggie, along with their brother Charlie, were raised in an environment shaped by hardship and violence. East London, at the time, was a melting pot of immigrants, poverty, and, unfortunately, crime, making it the perfect breeding ground for the Krays’ eventual involvement in the world of organized crime.
The Krays’ Connection to East London
While the twins’ criminal activities would later spread across London, their story began here. This location is more than just a place of birth—it’s where the foundation of their infamous empire was set. From an early age, the Krays began associating with local criminals, learning the ways of the street. These formative years would shape their tough personas and set them on a path that led to control over London’s underground criminal activity.
A Historical Journey
During the tour, you’ll explore the streets where the Krays spent their formative years, and you’ll be guided through the locations that helped to mold them into the figures they became. East London’s gritty backdrop offers a fascinating glimpse into the world the Krays grew up in, a stark contrast to the high-society figures they would later become.
The rich history of East London gives you a unique lens through which to view the early life of the Kray brothers. Join us on The Krays Tour as we uncover the places where their criminal empire began, starting at their birthplace in East London.