Shoreditch, located in the avant-garde heart of East London, serves as a dynamic centre for creativity and a bustling gathering place for the hipster crowd. This neighbourhood boasts a wealth of bars, street art, distinctive shops, and vibrant clubs, with a sprinkling of historical and natural elements to add to its charm. It is a must-see if you’re visiting London!
Though certain regions have experienced substantial changes, a closer examination will reveal traces of its original, captivating allure that still endure.
What is Shoreditch Best Known For?
Shoreditch is renowned for being a hipster haven, a constantly changing community teeming with eccentric museums, street art, street food vendors, markets, and welcoming pubs. Its most prominent characteristic is its liveliness and its magnetic appeal to all things unique and dynamic. It’s possibly best known for a large amount of impressive street art, including art from the famous Banksy, alongside well-made coffee and huge varieties of foods – including street foods!
What is The Best Street in Shoreditch?
When preparing to explore Shoreditch, London, it’s imperative to include a visit to Brick Lane, the neighbourhood’s most emblematic street. Brick Lane is a vibrant destination brimming with bars, markets, and, of course, its crowning jewel: a diverse selection of extraordinary Indian cuisine. This lively thoroughfare offers a constant buzz, where visitors can frequently spot social gatherings, interact with local artists, unearth exceptional vintage treasures, and savour live musical performances.
Where Can I Work Remotely in Shoreditch?
There is no shortage of workplaces for remote workers in Shoreditch, from cafes that allow you to sit with your laptop to more established spots where you can have meetings and private spaces. Some casual spots around Shoreditch include One Hundred and Mostrador for digital nomads. There are also serviced offices in the area for larger startups looking for a ready-to-go workspace.
Get Lost in Shoreditch Street Art
The Shoreditch Street Art scene is massive, ranking among the largest and most renowned in London and globally. You can hop on the tube to Shoreditch High Street station, and then let your eyes take the lead. Be sure to explore Whitby Street, Bethnal Green Road, and, of course, Brick Lane.
If you’re looking for Banksy, be sure to head over to Rivington Street to see ‘Guard Dog’ and ‘His Masters Voice’!
Eat in Bricklane!
Brick Lane holds a prominent spot on London’s culinary map, particularly celebrated for its Indian cuisine. Back in the 1960s and 1970s, Bengali immigrants established Indian restaurants here, solidifying its reputation as the ultimate curry destination. In addition to the delectable curries, you’ll also find an array of diverse street vendors offering everything from tacos to upscale dining establishments.
Mission – Yoga Studio
If you’re into yoga, you can not miss the opportunity to visit the largest yoga studio in Europe! Opening earlier this year, Mission is a fitness wonderland! They transformed an old warehouse into a massive hub for fitness lovers. You’ll find all kinds of yoga, from hot yoga to dharma and more, plus special classes like yoga for cancer. They even have workshops to help you nail tricky moves like backbends and handstands. And if you’re not in the mood for yoga, they’ve got pilates and weight training. And guess what? There’s a restaurant called Maene that serves up healthy, locally-sourced dishes. And when you’re done working out, you can treat yourself to cocktails on the terrace. Fun, right?
Visit BOXPARK
BOXPARK in Shoreditch proudly boasts the title of the world’s first pop-up mall, and as its name suggests, it’s constructed entirely from repurposed shipping containers. Within its unique confines, you can savour a variety of culinary delights and peruse thoughtfully curated fashion brands. Plus, BOXPARK is a hub of vibrant events, from quizzes and DJ sets to karaoke and bottomless brunch. With such a diverse array of offerings, you’re bound to discover an event that perfectly suits your preferences.
Wander Around Columbia Road Flower Market
Every Sunday, from 8am to 3pm, Columbia Road comes alive with the freshest flowers, houseplants, and more. You’ll also discover a wonderful selection of spots to enjoy a morning coffee and pastry, and if luck is on your side, there’s a little park where you can bask in the sunshine.
Get a Fancy Cocktail
Shoreditch is a treasure trove of delightful cocktails! For a fantastic cocktail experience, head over to Hoxton Square, one of London’s oldest squares dating back to the 1680s. Within this historic area, you can wander into charming bars like Happiness Forgets and Ever After. You’re sure to discover a bar that suits your taste, whether you’re in the mood for a cocktail or a fine glass of wine!
Live Music at The Village Underground
If you like live music, Shoreditch is home to the renovated Victorian warehouse that is called the Village Underground. Hosting local artist gigs to big-name international artists in a more intimate setting. Almost every night of the week, you can experience performances by artists and DJs poised for greatness in this cosy, subterranean venue.
Dance a Shoreditch Club
Ready for a night out? Shoreditch boasts great nightlife from jazz bars to huge clubs where you’d expect to get back home at 4am! Featuring a collection of trendy nightclubs and bars. While bigger-name clubs like Cargo and XOYO might be a bit heavy on the wallet, there are numerous alternatives for a budget-friendly night out. One such option is The Book Club, an underground brunch destination that’s far from ordinary, offering cocktails and a bustling, cost-effective event calendar.
Visit a Weird Museum
In Shoreditch, you’ll find some intriguing museums that provide a unique glimpse into the evolution of traditional London life from the 1600s to the present day. The “Museum of the Home,” for example, showcases a collection of recreated sitting and living rooms that illustrate the changes in everyday London life over the centuries.
Explore the Spitalfields Markets
Old Spitalfields Market, the original East London market, brings together small-scale producers, local artisans, independent retailers, and a few well-known brands, all within the confines of a historically significant venue. The Market boasts a rich history, with markets operating on the site since the 1600s.