About Snaresbrook
Snaresbrook
is very pleasant, with its parks and abundant greenery; it is also
a seat of justice. One of the smaller wards to the west of the
Borough, Snaresbrook is a Conservation Area, with a distinctive
architectural style giving it an air of elegance. Taking
prominence is Snaresbrook Crown Court. Its turrets and
Elizabethan style are reflected in the waters of Eagle Pond, a
central point of the area. Snaresbrook was designed as the
'Infant Orphan Asylum' by Sir George Gilbert Scott and George
Moffat, and opened by Leopold, King of the Belgians in 1843.
Until the early 1970s, Snaresbrook continued its link with
children as the Royal Wanstead School. However, since 1974 the
buildings have served as Crown Courts, leased by the Home Office.
The
Eagle pub dates back to the late-17th century, when it was
a staging post where travellers could rest on their journey from
London. Coach travellers passed through Bethnal Green and Whipps
Cross, resting at The Eagle while horse teams were changed,
then on to Woodford and beyond.
Page Last Updated: 01/12/01
© Royal Wanstead School
