SHOREDITCH
Shoreditch. The cultural capital of London, and a truly hidden gem in the city. Like an abstract painting, this part of London is home to colour, vibrancy, quirks and meaning – you just need to know where to it all. When you come out of Old Street station, you’ll find yourself in the heart of East London, and Shoreditch is the first port of call for most. An area which prides itself in its appreciation and showcase of art and culture, you’ll find the traditional fused with the contemporary to create a place where anyone and everyone can find a sense of belonging.
A place where every street corner, wall and alleyway is Instagram worthy, visitors and residents are spoilt for choice where choosing places to visit and dine are concerned; the Victoria Miro gallery, neighbour to the Parasol Unit, hosts a treasure trove of exhibitions all year around, from global icons like Yayoi Kusama and her luminous infinity rooms and love of polka dots, to critically acclaimed British painter Chantal Joffe. As you weave in and out of the area, there are endless walls of graffiti and street art to admire; Rivington Street is home to some original Banksy and Cremer St, Toynbee St, Shoreditch High St, Great Eastern St and Princelet St are also known for some original work. Pull up a chair at Dishoom, Dirty Bones or the Cereal Killer café when you get peckish, and take a moment to appreciate all the happenings outside in what’s recognised at the art palette of the city.
Shoreditch comes alive every Sunday when the hustle and bustle of all the street markets take over and suddenly you find yourself immersed in what seems like a forest. Traders come together to sell hundreds of types of flowers every week, from roses to lilies and peonies to banana trees, so you’re sure to find the perfect bunch for that special person in your life. The roads are also lined with various delis and antique shops to accommodate every kind of style and taste. As if that wasn’t enough, there’s an Aladdin’s cave’s worth of vintage stores so if you have knack for thrift shops, you’re covered because Shoreditch is the hub of fashion and art in London.
Whatever you choose to do, Shoreditch makes sure you’re the artist, and the city is your canvas. Ready to pick up the brush?