Situated in East of London and formerly known as an industrial hub, Hackney has undergone huge regeneration in recent years to become one of the most liveable boroughs in the city. Home to young creative types, this area withholds strong community ties of new businesses, ranging from coffee shops to clothing stores. Famed for many great eateries and an unmatched nightlife, there is no way you can’t have a wonderful time exploring the picturesque landmarks and breathtaking sites in this rising borough.

1. What makes Hackney unique?
2. Hackney's popular attractions
3. Nightlife in Hackney
4. Sports in Hackney
5. Food in Hackney
6. Shopping Centres and Markets in Hackney
7. Festivals and events in Hackney
8. Travel in and around Aberdeen
9. Explore nearby boroughs from Hackney

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1. What makes Hackney unique?

The borough was formed in 1965 from the area of the earlier metropolitan borough of Hackney, Shoreditch, and Stoke Newington. Before the formation of Hackney, this was a Roman farmland that was used to supply the city ‘Londinium’ with food and basic necessities. Today, the area has become a global destination for the 21st century, especially for its influence in arts, culture, and nightlife.

Hackney is a culturally diverse borough with a wide range of communities, from ‘Other White,’ Black to Turkish, forming a friendly environment for everyone. There are notable celebrities that lived in Hackney from the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries including Robert Aske, William Cecil, Samuel Courtauld, Samuel Hoare, Joseph Priestley and Thomas Sutton.

In Hackney, there are a total of 1,300 listed buildings of historical significance and 25 conservation areas that aim to protect large areas of Georgian and Victorian housing, and other important industrial heritage. Throughout the years of regeneration, Hackney had been bringing in new businesses, from coffee shops to clothing stores. The remnants of its industrial past have been converted into warehouses, communal living spaces, nightclubs and art galleries.

On streets such as Mare Street and Kingsland Road, you can find an array of bars, shops, and restaurants that will satisfy your cravings.

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2. Hackney's popular attractions

Hackney is full of fun things to do and unique places to visit. Despite being just a district, however within this wonderful place, there are numerous places you can not miss, including:

• Hackney Empire. Built in 1901, this is one of London’s most premier live comedy venues, known for staging numerous famous comedians such as Charlie Chaplin, Stan Laurel, and Marie Lloyd.
• London Fields. A beautiful park that is great to spend the summer afternoon or have a picnic with friends and family.
• St Augustine’s Tower. Hackney’s oldest building, this Graded-I building dates back to the 16th century situated at the heart of the ancient village.
• Sutton House and Breaker’s Yard. The oldest domestic building in Hackney, built by a prominent courtier in the Tudor period, is a rare example of 16th century brick architecture in Britain.
• Hackney’s side streets. Stroll around rows of terraced house to worn steps leading up to colorful front doors. Experience unique architectural designs and wonderful cultural heritage.
• Hackney City Farm. A perfect location for anyone who wants to take a break from the bustling city life. There are numerous exciting leisure activities such as feeding farm animals and productive pottery classes.
• Rio Cinema. Arthouse cinema dating back to 100 years that showcases a great collection of classic, new release and forgein flicks.

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3. Nightlife in Hackney

From fantastic clubs, crafted breweries, chic bars, to all-night raves, Hackney’s nightlife scene is a pleasure seeker’s playground. Here, you can experience a perfect night out with eclectic music and everything from Afro-soul to electro and house.

For an extravagant night with life lifting raves and party music from outdoor terraces and massive warehouses to intimate spaces and cult favourites, there are numerous places that are just perfect for that. With places such as Night Tales - home to the biggest covered terrace, Oslo, The Moth Club, Cargo, The King’s Head Members Club, Village Underground and Basing House, you can experience an exquisite garden filled with cocktails and street food or enjoy a live music performance or enjoy some giggles from a comedy stand-up.

If you are looking for something that is calmer and more relaxing like a laid back drink with friends and colleagues, then Hackney also gets you covered with an array of exclusive options. From pub such as The Cat and Mutton, Hand Of Glory, The Star By Hackney Downs, The Three Compasses, Rehab, The Victoria, The Last Tuesday Society, you can experience a fine choice of cider, ales, and infused gins to guzzle or even some mouth watering dishes, making it perfect for a dinner date.

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4. Sports in Hackney

Hackney is home to Hackney Wick Football Club, members of the Eastern Counties League Division One South, whose games are held at the Spa Road in Witham. Other state-of-the-art facilities open to the public include:

• Britannia Leisure Centre
• Clissold Leisure Centre
• Gainsborough Playing Fields
• Hackney Marshes Centre
• Hackney Parks
• King’s Hall Leisure Centre
• London Fields Lido
• Mabley Green
• Queensbridge Sports and Community Centre
• West Reservoir Centre

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5. Food in Hackney

Hackney is a foodie’s wonderland, a melting pot of cultures and creativity. Here, you can find some of the beautiful restaurants with eye-catching decorations, Michelin starred menus and exclusive open kitchen.

Also, there are a number of fantastic traditional pubs with roaring fire, Victorian features and a menu full with spectacular tastes. From the Mexican quesadillas oozing cheese, delicious wood-fired Italian pizzas, to an array of exclusive Asian fusion, Hackney got you covered.

For anyone that is into Asian food, a visit to My Neighbors The Dumplings, Mao Chow, Peg, and Green Papaya Xi’Viet are some of the best options. Here, you not only experience delicious meals but are also served with the best customer service.

If you want some Modern European, French or Italian food, a visit to some of Hackney’s best restaurants such as Bright, Brawn, Casa Fofo, Campania and Jones, The Laughing Heart, Bistrotheque, Lardo, and Martello Hall will get you on an endless list of cravings.

There are also coffee shops where you can enjoy including E. Pellicci, and Pophams Hackney which are among the most recommended places. There is nothing better than having a calming and relaxing atmosphere where you can see the beautiful landscapes while keeping yourself busy with work.

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6. Shopping Centres and Markets in Hackney

Your trip to Hackney would not be fulfilled without a visit to it’s amazing shopping commutes, from the amazing malls, markets, and unique independent stores, you are sure to find something of your interest.

Hackney is known for its enriching markets: Starting from the traditional east end with Ridley Road and Petticoat Lane, your grocery shopping experience has never been better. Here, you can find everything from food, diverse fruits and vegetables from around the world, flowers, different types of meat, to even an exclusive 24hr bagel bakery. Not to mention, your casual stroll around these markets can bring you to many fashion boutiques and beautiful second hand shops.

If you are more targeted towards an organic ‘farmers market’ or craft fairs, you should definitely not miss Stoke Newington, Broadway Market, and Victoria Park Village. From gourmet foods, artisan breads, cheeses and organic meat for a higher price, your choices are undoubtedly always in good conditions and of high quality. Not to mention, if you are walking along the most famous Broadway Market, you can also find endless fashion boutiques with hand sewn clothes and designer stores that take on vintage classics.

If you are looking for a pair of cheap and affordable shoes, pay a visit to one of Hackney’s most thriving shoe businesses located at the end of Kingsland Road. Here, you are filled with a vast swath of options, from glittery creations to the most posh-looking shoes with extremely low price. This place is also ideal for anyone after a relaxing walk or wants to feel the breeze of the wonderful air.

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7. Festivals and events in Hackney

Hackney is full of culture and diversity when the community comes together to celebrate, share, and enjoy the many events and festivals every year. These include:

• Hackney WICKED. The West End and Broadway musician sensation, and the 9th longest running musical in London theatre history.
• Hackney Festival of Fitness. 3 days of movements and exciting activities that will keep you active.
• Vision Festival 2021. A one day festival that celebrates Hackney’s diversity in music, art, food, and culture.
• Hackney Carnival. A street parade that celebrates Hackney’s cultural diversity, heritage and community life.
• Hackney Pride 365. A festival celebrating the borough’s historic, diverse, and boundary-breaking LGBTQ+ community. Exclusive events are held for gardening clubs, club nights, picnics, and film screenings.
• Black History Season. An annual celebration of culture and history that recognizes the achievements and enriching young, Black Power in Hackney’s African and Carribean community.
• Homes for Heroes. A commemoration ceremony that celebrates the hard work and give back to the military, firefighters, teachers, healthcare professionals for all they have done.
• 100 years of council housing. An exhibition held at Hackney Town Hall to mark the centenary of the 1919 Addison Act which celebrates the past, present and future of council homes.

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8. Travel in and around Hackney

Hackney is served by the London Underground only at Manor House, located on its extreme north-western fringe on the boundary with Haringey. Apart from this, Hackney has developed more transportation options, from buses, trains and cars.

By London Overground

Traveling around Hackney can be served by the three London Overground lines including the North London Line that crosses from west to east, the East London Line runs from Highbury & Islington to Dalston Junction and other destinations in the south.

By taxi

By using London Taxi, your traveling can become a lot more convenient. However, to be safe please use a licensed minicab, or taxi as there are a lot of illegal cabs that have been found in Hackney. A reliable option is Hackney car club, whose services will provide you with a safer, cleaner, and greener way of travel without buying a car. You can find car club cars parked on-street in their own designated bays, scattered throughout Hackney.

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9. Explore nearby boroughs from Hackney

Hackney is an ideal base for you to start exploring the rest of London’s unique boroughs. Even though it is all a part of the same ceremonial county, Greater London, each district withhold different traditions and cultural heritage that is just worth exploring. From an array of iconic attractions, historic landmarks to stunning countryside, you are just a train ride away.

Tower Hamlets

Situated in the east of London, Tower Hamlets covers much of the traditional East End, or often referred to as the East End Of London. Formed in 1965, Tower Hamlets presents a mix of old and new, a bustling community unique in culture and character.

Here, you will be taken to a stunning view of the borough’s panoramic riverside and truly fascinating architecture. Visitors to Tower Hamlets are also spoiled with an array of activities - whether it is entertainment, shopping, visiting, or eating, this place will surely have something for everyone.

Islington

Known for its bustling and vibrant community-based in London, Islington has a rich history and a diverse culture that certainly makes it a part of the capital that offers the best living standards. From its iconic and famous restaurant-dense areas to Europe’s third longest escalator, you will surely have an amazing time roaming around some of Islington’s breathtaking landmarks and taste mouth-watering dishes.