April 6, 2026
Looking for the best things to do in Shoreditch? This hip and quirky area in East London is not your typical neighbourhood. It’s filled with history, vibrance, and culture and is sure to become your next favourite destination.
This area is a foodie paradise and one of the world’s best cities for street art. Read on to learn more about this once-run-down area that has been reinvigorated by up-and-coming creatives and entrepreneurs.
How to Get There
Take the overground train and get off at Shoreditch High Street. Or take Bus Routes 388 and 8 to be dropped off on Brick Lane.
What to Do in Shoreditch
Shoreditch’s things to do are almost endless, but here are some of the top sights and activities for a memorable visit.
Shoreditch Street Art
The artsy area of Shoreditch is an open-air, free gallery of sorts. You’ll find street art adorning storefronts, decorating lamp posts, and hiding in alleyways — adding vibrance and life to this ever-growing area.
The murals tend to have a political edge to them, and they’re always changing. Artists often add to or on top of other artworks, so you’re bound to see something new with every visit. You’ll spot works by famous street artists like Banksy, Zabou, and Roa.
Most of the street art is concentrated around Shoreditch Triangle, Brick Lane, and Redchurch street. Be sure to bring your camera along, as these murals are sure to make great Instagrammable spots.
Tip: Take an immersive guided street art tour to learn more about the East End’s creative scene.
Redchurch Street
If you’re a design lover, Redchurch Street is calling your name. This 0.2-mile stretch is packed with boutique designer stores, quirky cafés, and hip bars and restaurants.
Fuel up at Allpress Espresso Bar before heading to stores like Aesop, Vinti Andrews, and Tracy Neuls. The fashionably functional shoes at Tracy Neuls are all attached to the ceiling with ribbons. Vinti Andrews, on the other hand, specialises in rebellious and unique clothing.
London Shuffle Club
Immerse yourself in the retro game of shuffleboard at the London Shuffle Club. The game originated on cruise ships and is now one of the most fun things to do in Shoreditch.
Bring your friends along and enjoy the good vibes along with tasty food. They offer cocktails, mocktails, and more. But, for the best group experience, you’ll want to book the bottomless brunch. This experience includes bottomless beer or prosecco and handmade sourdough pizza.
Shoreditch Boxpark
Opposite the road from the London Shuffle Club, you’ll find Shoreditch Boxpark. This two-story retail, food, and entertainment park is composed of repurposed shipping containers.
On the ground floor, you’ll mostly find retail shops. These include big names like Nike and Primark and independent brands. The space also hosts regular pop-up stores, where brands tend to launch exciting new products or collections.
The top floor is a foodie paradise, with everything from Argentinian to Malaysian dishes on offer. Try the loaded chips at Poptata for carb-loaded goodness or the plant-based burgers at Mercy Burger for a meat-free treat.
Brick Lane
Brick Lane is one of the most exciting places to go in Shoreditch. You’ll find everything from indie designer brands and vibrant street art to some of the best eats in London.
Curry Houses
Try some of the best and cheapest south Asian eats at London’s “curry mile” along Brick Lane. There are around 20 different places to choose from, offering varieties of Pakistani, Indian, and Bangladeshi cuisines.
City Spice, Brick Lane Brasserie, and the four-story Monsoon are some of the most popular spots.
Vintage Shopping
You’ll find some of the best vintage shops in London at Brick Lane. Discover designer gems and quirky items at popular stores like Rokit, Beyond Retro, Serotonin Vintage, and House of Vintage.
Whether you’re shopping or browsing, you may want to go during the week. These shops can get ultra-busy over the weekend.
Old Truman Brewery
This abandoned brewery, established in 1660, was once the largest in London. After closing operations in 1989, this site was repurposed as a hub for galleries, studios, and offices.
Today, the Old Truman Brewery is abuzz with exciting events and local vendors. So if you’re looking for cool places in Shoreditch, look no further.
Head to the old brewery over the weekend to shop for craft items, food, and designer clothes at its many markets. These include Upmarket, Brick Lane Vintage Market, The Tea Rooms, and the Backyard Market. Ely’s Yard is street food heaven and is open all week.
Beigel Bake
This iconic 24/7 Jewish bakery on Brick Lane has become somewhat of an East End institution. They’ve been serving traditional-style beigels with classic toppings like salted beef, pickle, and mustard since 1974.
It’s even seen some notable people over the decades. These include the Kray twins, James May, and Molly Parkin.
This shop never closes. So whether you’re seeking a midnight snack or an early morning pick-me-up, Beigel Bake will provide.
Old Spitalfields Market
Find some of the best street food and retail options at the Old Spitalfields Market. This foodie destination has been in operation since 1638. It boasts an international selection of eats like arepas, hand-pulled noodles, and samoosas. The pan-fried pork dumplings from Dumpling Shack are a crowd favourite.
You’ll also find vendors selling everything from hand-crafted goodies to clothes, jewellery, and homeware. Pop by on Thursdays for the weekly antique market, where you’re sure to find a few gems.
Princelet Street
Designated a Conservation Area in 1976, Princelet Street has managed to escape the modernisation projects found in other London areas.
This beautifully preserved street in the Spitalfields area is lined with 18th-century, Georgian-era houses. These used to be home to the Huguenot silk weavers and, eventually, Jewish, Irish, and Bengali families.
Walk along this quiet road admiring the historic house fronts, and perhaps pop in at number 19, Princelet Street. This spot became home to one of London’s oldest synagogues in 1870. Today, it houses the Museum of Immigration and Diversity. It’s rarely open, but you may just stumble upon a free open day, which will grant you a look inside.
The shabby façade of the red house (number 4, Princelet Street) is an especially Instagrammable spot in London. It’s also been used for filming shows and movies like Luther and The Invisible Woman.
Columbia Road Flower Market
This Sunday market has all the flowers, bulbs, herbs, houseplants, and succulents you could possibly think of. It’s one of London’s best money-saving experiences and has been running since 1869.
Open rain or shine, this flower market can get ultra-busy, with tourists and locals alike packing into the narrow street. Be sure to arrive early (8 am) to avoid long queues. Or show up between 2-3 pm when the market is winding down. You’ll usually be able to get a good deal as vendors try to sell off leftover stock while packing up.
Shoreditch Pub Crawl
Shoreditch is as lively at night as it is during the day. If you’re looking for fun things to do, a Shoreditch pub crawl is an excellent option. Immerse yourself in the East End’s nightlife with a visit to some of these top pubs.
Golden Heart
This cosy local favourite attracts an artsy crowd and is equally artsy with its collection of Tracy Emin’s artworks on display. Enjoy a classic Gin & Tonic or pint among the tasteful decor, or people-watch from the outside seating. It’s near the Shoreditch Overground and right around the corner from the Truman Brewery.
Commercial Tavern
Found on Commercial street, this spacious Victorian bar with its outside patio is another local go-to. The shabby-chic, eccentric decor is a feast for the eyes. Join the after-work crowd after 5 pm on weekdays to meet some East End locals over a pint of local beer.
Ten Bells
Named after the ringing bells of nearby Christ Church Spitalfields, Ten Bells is a Shoreditch Institution well worth visiting. The three-story pub has been serving quality beer, cocktails, and wine since the 1890s. You’ll spot some of the original interior tiles and a few artworks depicting the place’s history.
This pub also has a bit of a dark history and is one of London’s most haunted pubs. It is said to be where a few of Jack the Ripper’s victims (and possibly himself) once drank.
Tip: Take a thrilling Jack the Ripper walking tour to learn more about this unsettling character.
Where to Stay in Shoreditch
The Shoreditch Hotels have some of the most exciting interiors in London, mirroring the vibrance of this hipster area.
Budget | Point A Hotels
Point A Hotel offers everything you need and nothing you don’t and is situated in the heart of Shoreditch. You’ll find attractions like Sky Garden, Boxpark, Brick Lane, and Shoreditch High Street within walking distance. Retreat to a comfy bed and speedy Wi-Fi after your day of exploration.
Mid-Range | Citizen M
Citizen M is another contemporary spot within walking distance of London’s top attractions. Its wall-to-wall windows allow for plenty of light to stream in. And the communal spaces are great for getting some remote work done.
Luxury | Courthouse Hotel Shoreditch
Enjoy the ultimate luxury at the Courthouse Hotel, which features an indoor pool, gym, steam room, and on-site restaurant. Cosy up in a spacious room with complimentary bathrobes and slippers after a day of fun activities in Shoreditch.
Final Thoughts on Things to Do: Shoreditch
When it comes to exciting places to go, Shoreditch should be at the top of your list. This London area will leave you creatively inspired and happily filled with some fantastic street food.
For even more fun things to do near Shoreditch, read this guide on the best activities in Islington.
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