TRAVEL // HACKNEY

The Brooklyn of London is cooler than Brooklyn. For a decade, East London slowly built its rep as the city’s new center, changing the way Brits regarded the once neglected side of town. I’m living here for two years now, first Stamford Hill then Dalston and now Lower Clapton and was very lucky having locals showing me around the area. However sometimes there are no locals at hand and you have to rely on other options. But forget the guide books and find out where the best places and vibes are in East London below. If you’re on the look out for Germany’s versions of Dalston or Brooklyn the → Immowelt Blog is a reliable and super informative source!

Chatsworth Road Market, E5

Let’s start this little travel guide off with Chatsworth Road Market, which I can see from my window and only takes me about 50 steps to get to. Admittedly I only ever made it to the Sunday market in a questionable state of mind (and body) – the market with different stalls takes place on Sundays but the street is also worth going to during the week with a lovely mix of local shops and of course my life saver: the 24/7 off license!

Haggerston Pub, E8

The Haggerston Pubdoesn’t look the best from the outside but it’s the inside that counts. OK also the inside is a little grimey, I was once advised by one of the pizza chefs themselves not to eat there. However I was brave and didn’t die. Instead the pizza was pretty tasty, there is also a garden which is the best bit to go to in summer and if you drank enough alcoholic beverages there are usually some great DJs playing. Tip: Go on a Sunday night, Jazz will ease your hangover for sure! And if you want to go on a date, the Hagg is full off candles, worse than a cemetry.

London Fields, E5

London Fields is amazing all year round, butof course spring and summer are best for all park shenanigans! The park is full of sunbathing freelancers during the week and on weekends full of people who are likely working in design or journalism. You might not see your own hand in front of you as barbeque smoke is wading through the park but who doesn’t fancy a bit of steak sent in their hair!? Actually, despit my sarcastic tone the park is lovely so make sure to bring your bbq equipment. (and fixie bike)

The Shacklewell Arms, E8

The Shack is definitely a grimey little pub slash venue, but definitely has the best combination of comfy backgarden and best event listings. Everyone from The Horrors to Skrillex have performed on the little stage, friendships have been made and hearts have been broken. The establishment only opened in 2011 and already feels like a “has always been there” thing.

The White Building (Crate Brewery), E9

The White Building is a bit further off, but well worth the track. Right by the Lea Navigation canal it invites to either go for a nice walk along the water, a boat trip in the water or to having a pint and pizza right by the water. Sometimes said pizza can even be eaten on a boat. The pizzas are pretty awesome and very thing and crisp, best enjoyed with pale ale from Crate Brewery.