 Commentators had previously suggested the eastern edge of Whitechapel, where it meets the western edge of Stepney, as the most likely location.The first reference to playing in one of the speculated locations for the Red Lion is when actors were paid to perform at Mile End (which is within the parish of Stepney) on 6 August 1501.Attempts to locate the original site are made confusing by the various streets and public houses named "The Red Lion" (or "Lyon") which since have arisen thereabouts.