What Are the Best Things to Do in Shoreditch?

Visiting Shoreditch, London’s vibrant experimental quarter and creative neighborhood, is like taking a journey through the very best of the city’s arts, culture and fashion. With the best galleries, markets, bars, theatres and much more, this East London hotspot caters to all visitor preferences, making it an ideal location to visit while in London.If you’re looking for an exciting day out and want to sample everything that Shoreditch has to offer, you will be spoilt for choice. From quirky cocktail venues to vibrant street art tours and stunning buildings and churches, we have put together a list of the area’s very best attractions and activities.

Markets

The perfect place to find unique souvenirs and pick up some bargains, Shoreditch is home to some of London’s best street markets. The famous Columbia Road Flower Market is a Sunday-only affair that sells everything from fresh cut flowers to small plants, garden accessories and homemade food, whilst nearby Brick Lane Market operates every Sunday selling antiques and vintage fashion. Rounding up the selection is Old Spitalfields Market, which operates seven days a week selling a mix of food, fashion, design and lifestyle products as well as hosting special events on a regular basis.

Galleries

The streets of Shoreditch offer an array of top-quality galleries featuring a vast selection of contemporary art. London’s renown White Cube Mason’s Yard is located nearby, showcasing world-renowned artists such as Damien Hirst, Tracey Emin and Gilbert & George in a series of impressive loft spaces. For a more off-the-beaten-track experience, The Old Shoreditch Station showcases works from upcoming contemporary galleries displaying unmissable exhibitions throughout the year.

Eating & Drinking

For a truly revolutionary gastronomic experience, Shoreditch makes for the perfect place to explore the very best of modern British cooking. The celebrated Red Church Streets is home to an array of new restaurants from top chefs such as the Michelin-starred Tristan Welch’s Perilla and The Ivy Chelsea Garden for fine dining experiences, Brick Lane for classic British curries and the famous Cereal Killer Café for breakfast treats. Alongside this Fates Bar & Bottle Shop boasts an expansive selection of craft beers from London’s best breweries.

Theatre & Arts

The buzzing streets of Shoreditch form a vibrant cultural hub with plentiful theatres, live performances and art exhibitions. The Roundhouse hosts an impressive schedule of shows throughout the year featuring new plays, music performances and visual art exhibitions and 93 Feet East close by offers vibrant live music events seven days a week alongside regular club nights and lively rave parties.

Shopping

The East London district is packed with independent boutiques catering to all tastes and styles. Venture down Blackall Street and along Great Eastern Street to discover an eclectic mix of vintage stores selling clothes, jewellery and furniture or explore trendy Shoreditch High Street for fashionable high street stores. For designer labels head to Old Street where you’ll find luxury clothing stores selling the very latest in fashion.

Conclusion

From its cobbled streets to vintage stalls and bohemian culture, Shoreditch has plenty to offer all visitors looking for a unique experience in the city. With these few highlights in tow, this vibrant quarter makes for an unforgettable experience that can be explored with ease. To make the most of your visit be sure to take some time out to explore all that this creative hotspot has to offer. For more information about what there is to do in Shoreditch, head over to VisitLondon, which provides an extensive list of activities around this area.

An Insider’s Guide to the Best Things to Do in Shoreditch, London

Shoreditch is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood located in the east end of London. Known for its unique blend of street art, industrial architecture, and cutting-edge fashion, Shoreditch has become a hotspot for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. From trendy restaurants and bars to historic markets and hidden alleys, there’s no shortage of things to do in this dynamic district. Here’s an insider’s guide to the best that Shoreditch has to offer:

Local Attractions

One of the standout features of Shoreditch is its colorful street art scenes. Murals and graffiti can be found on nearly every corner, making for an endlessly fascinating walk around the neighborhood. The best place to start is at Brick Lane, where you can see some of the most well-known works by international artists. While in the area, don’t skip the Old Truman Brewery, which houses dozens of independent shops, galleries, and food kiosks. The Boxpark, a innovative pop-up mall entirely made of shipping containers, is also worth a visit.

For a dose of history, wander over to the world-famous Spitalfields Market. Originally established in the 17th century and undergoing a major renovation in the early 2000s, the covered market is now a hub of local businesses and artisans. From vintage clothes and accessories to crafts and antiques, there’s something for everyone here. Don’t miss the striking Christ Church Spitalfields, an architectural gem that features intricate details and a beautiful garden.

Dining Spots

Shoreditch is a foodie’s paradise, with an ever-growing number of unique and varied dining options. You can’t go wrong with the Shoreditch branch of Dishoom, a Bombay-inspired cafe that serves up delicious Indian food and drinks in a retro setting. For something more casual, try Yum Bowl, a popular takeaway spot serving steaming bowls of noodles and dumplings. If you’re in the mood for Vietnamese, we recommend Sông Quê Cafe, consistently rated one of the best in London.

For a drink with a view, head to Queen of Hoxton, an eclectic rooftop bar with a rotating lineup of DJs and events. Not far away is Callooh Callay, a Alice-in-Wonderland themed cocktail bar that offers quirky drinks and a cozy atmosphere. Finally, no visit to Shoreditch would be complete without stopping by the world-famous Cereal Killer Cafe, where you can indulge in all kinds of sweet and savory cereal creations.

Cultural Experiences

If you’re looking for cultural experiences, the Rich Mix is the place to be. The community arts center offers a diverse range of events, from live music and theater to film screenings and workshops. Catch a performance or simply hang out in the cozy cafe area. Another must-visit is the Whitechapel Gallery, one of London’s oldest and most respected public art galleries. The venue showcases cutting-edge contemporary art and runs a busy program of exhibitions, talks, and events.

For an off-beat cultural experience, head to the Geffrye Museum, located in a series of beautiful 18th-century almshouses. The museum explores the history of home life in London through a series of period rooms, gardens, and exhibits. Nearby is the V&A Museum of Childhood, which re-opened in 2019 following a major renovation. The museum boasts a fascinating collection of toys and games from around the world, including interactive exhibits for kids.

Local History

Shoreditch has a long and storied history, and there are several local landmarks that tell its stories. One of the most famous is the Boundary Estate, the first social housing project in London’s history. The estate was built in the late 19th century and is now a protected heritage site. Another important site is the Bishopsgate Institute, now a cultural center devoted to adult education and research. The institute was originally established in 1895, and its archives hold an impressive collection of historical documents and photographs.

For a glimpse into the modern history of Shoreditch, take a walk through the famous Hoxton Square. In the 90s, the area was a hotbed of creativity and experimentation, with dozens of artists and designers setting up shop in the warehouses and lofts around the square. Nowadays, the area is known for its trendy bars and cafes, but there are still plenty of historic buildings and landmarks to explore.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a true insider’s experience, venture off the main roads and explore some of Shoreditch’s hidden alleys and backstreets. Arnold Circus, located in the heart of Shoreditch, is a roundabout that features a beautifully landscaped park in the center. From there, you can take a stroll down Wilkes Street, a quiet lane that’s home to some of the area’s most charming cafes and boutiques. If you head further east, you’ll find Columbia Road Flower Market, a bustling Sunday market that’s been going for over 150 years.

Another unique experience is the Magic Circle Museum, open only for members and on appointment only to the people interested in the mysteries and wonders of magic and illusion. The museum includes a vast collection of historic and contemporary stage illusions, props, and magical artifacts.

In conclusion, Shoreditch is filled with an array of attractions, dining options, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to cater to every kind of traveler. With this insider’s guide, you can make the most of your time in this vibrant neighborhood and experience something truly unique.