It adjoins Woodford Green to the north, Walthamstow to the west, Snaresbrook and Wanstead to the south and Redbridge to the east, and is 8.9 miles (14.3 km) north-east of Charing Cross.

Historically part of the ancient parish of Woodford St Mary, in the Becontree hundred of Essex, the area was largely rural before developing rapidly in the 19th century.

There are several leading chain stores, such as Sainsbury's, Marks & Spencer, Waitrose and Boots and a number of smaller shops, bars, restaurants and cafes.

George Lane itself is split into two by the Central line rail track with the western part of the road containing the majority of shops and businesses.

There was originally a level crossing at this point, but now a flyover (locally referred to as "the Viaduct") carries traffic between the east and west sides of George Lane.

The area is served by South Woodford tube station in Travelcard Zone 4 on the Central line of the London Underground.