Insider tips – Explore east London

Get to know some of the best night clubs, art galleries, coffee shops, restaurants and markets London has to offer. Happy exploring!

This time I decided to spend more time in the east of London to get to know some highlights beyond the sights. It has been fun to explore Hackney as you get easily involved by a dynamic and young atmosphere. London is just great for a weekend trip. But once more I noticed it’s impossible to explore every part of capital cities like London within 3 days. So I will be back, that’s for sure!

Hackney is a borough located in the east of London. Known for its vibrating and edgy flair. Just a couple of years ago this part of London has been rather shabby. Criminals and drug dealers were predominant. Nowadays young couples, hipsters and families adore this region of London, that has changed so quickly. It includes some of the most popular quarters like Shoreditch, Hoxton and parts of the Regent’s Canal.

Lovely weekend markets around Hackney

Bricklane buildings at the Broadway Street are charming and traditional English.

Bricklane buildings at the Broadway Street are charming and traditional English.

There is a lot to discover at Broadway Market. Try some tartes they are so yummy!

There is a lot to discover at Broadway Market. Try some tartes they are so yummy!

There are a whole bunch of different markets that take place on weekends. One of my favorite is the Broadway Market nestled in the heart of Hackney. Every Saturday the market provides a great variety of delicious street food, fresh products and unique arts and crafts. I loved the atmosphere and enjoyed to stroll around the market stalls. Young buskers and indie bands fill the air with music. The shops around define a creative offer of bookstores, cafés and popular vintage shops. The market is open Saturdays from 9 am until 5 pm, located on Broadway Street.

The Ridley Road Market is a great alternative to buy fresh groceries. Prices are lower compared to the Broadway Market and its open every weekday as well as on Fridays and Saturdays from 9 am until 5 pm.

Another popular market is the Columbia Road Flower Market. Every Sunday locals and tourists likewise get together to enjoy the marvelous smell of flowers, when the Columbia Road turns into a blossom garden. The street turns into a flower market that presents exotic flowers. Coffee shops on the side are a great option to rest and spoil yourself with a yummy breakfast. Other markets that are worth exploring are the Netil Market, the Roman Road Market and the Street Feast in Dalston.

Coffee Shops & Restaurants that you will love

Dishoom is a hot spot amongst locals – you won't be disappointed.

Dishoom is a hot spot amongst locals – you won’t be disappointed.

Hackney is famous for its coffee hot spots. Especially Shoreditch and Hoxton own some of the most popular places for great coffee and brunch on weekends. To list my three favorites. E5 Bakehouse – a tiny café that offers some of the best freshly made bread and biscuits. Leila’s Shop – organic food and coffee in a cozy atmosphere. Barber & Parlour – a hot spot created by the Soho House, individual and great for brunch.

Dishoom is my favorite restaurant by far. They opened a few restaurants in London now, but I still prefer the one in Shoreditch. Order different dishes to share with your friends and enjoy Indian cuisine at its best. Be aware that it can get quite busy on weekends and they do not reserve tables in the evening. Enjoy some cocktails at the bar while waiting and immerse into the metropolitan flair with a Bombay twist

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