Words Frank Cassidy
Even those who have never been to London know all about the big attractions such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace overlooking the Mall, Tower Bridge and the London Eye. But for those looking for a more unique, local experience, there are many one-of-a-kind, unexpected places that give this city its edge.
On a recent visit, I enjoyed time exploring Shoreditch, once a working-class area of East London that has now become one of the city’s most vibrant destinations and one of the most popular and fashionable parts of London. Among the tons of exciting things to do in this eclectic part of the city, here are a few not to be missed.
Street Art
The streets of Shoreditch are an ever-changing urban canvas and the entire area is filled with a diverse range of artwork, from giant murals that cover the facades of whole buildings to vibrant graffiti and political commentary. Around every corner, under every arch and bridge, the walls and buildings – even the wheelie bins – are canvases for renowned local and international artists such as Banksy, Zabou, Mr Cenz, Stik, Dscreet, Ben Eine and Jimmy C.
Banksy’s ‘Designated Graffiti Area’ is located in the courtyard of the Viaduct, a well-known venue on Rivington Street, built inside an old railway tunnel. Here you will find two works by the elusive artist. One depicts a policeman on patrol in a designated graffiti area holding a fluffy poodle on a leash. The second, created in collaboration with an artist named Stylo, is an adaptation of Nipper, the iconic HMV dog, here seen silencing His Master’s Voice by aiming a rocket launcher into the gramophone instead of looking into it.
Spitalfields Market
A hive of activity that lures foodies, fashionistas and treasure-seekers from all over the globe, Spitalfields Market has evolved and expanded since its establishment in the 1680s when traders worked from a collection of sheds and stalls.
Now it is full of independent traders showcasing unique handmade pieces of art, craft and fashion. It’s full of surprising finds from original designers, vintage fashion, jewellery, vinyl, housewares and kitschy goods. In addition, there’s a strip of luxury boutiques carrying brands such as Chanel, Coach, TAG Heuer and Diptyque.
Spitalfields is a haven for the most delicious and diverse food, with a variety of stalls, gourmet food trucks, restaurants and cafés serving gastronomic treats from every corner of the world.
Brick Lane
This is the most well-known street in Shoreditch with an endless array of vintage shops selling everything from shoes and clothes to records. It attracts all age groups from near and far in search of anything from fruit and vegetables, second-hand furniture and bric-a-brac to unique clothing and jewellery. There are also a lot of great bookshops, some seriously good chocolate shops and, of course, the iconic bagel bakeries open 24-7, plus an abundance of works by some of the most renowned street artists.
The East End has always been known for its wealth of cultures and this is very evident in the array of aromas from the many food stalls as you stroll along this vibrant street. From incredible street food to curry houses and upmarket restaurants, there’s something from every continent to suit every budget.
BOXPARK
Offering a unique shopping and dining experience, BOXPARK was the world’s first pop-up mall when it was launched in Shoreditch in 2011. Two levels of repurposed shipping containers fuse the concept of street market and pop-up shopping destination. The award-winning site features carefully selected brands specialising in fashion, arts, food and drinks.
Hoxton Square
One of London’s oldest garden squares, Hoxton is now a fashionable cultural quarter, well known for its art galleries, restaurants, clubs and bars. The square is a much-appreciated green space – a peaceful oasis amongst the buzz and bustle of the area.
A four-metre-high bronze sculpture by Hackney-based artist Stik was erected in the square in September 2020. Entitled Holding Hands, it depicts two figures facing in opposite directions yet holding hands in a sign of universal love and solidarity.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., Columbia Road overflows with bucketfuls of colourful flowers, shrubs, bulbs, houseplants and herbs. Along the narrow street, there are also lots of interesting independent shops selling art prints, pottery, antiques and the most incredibly delicious cupcakes.
Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the best selection. Or if you’re hunting for a bargain, wait until the afternoon when you’ll hear shout-outs from the stallholders announcing ‘everything now for a fiver’ in London’s famous Cockney accent.
- ‘Shoreditch: Offbeat London’ is published in Anthology Volume 20. Read more features from this volume or buy it now.
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