Hackney area guide: Where to explore, dine and live
London has no shortage of trendy neighbourhoods, but few can match Hackney’s unique blend of urban buzz, creative spirit, and community warmth. An area on the up, Hackney has welcomed chic shops, buzzing cafés, and cutting-edge art spaces in recent years – all layered onto an already vibrant mix of culture, food, and nightlife.
Named one of the coolest places in the world to live, Hackney is multicultural, eclectic, exciting, and surprisingly green, with an impressive scattering of parks, gardens, and tree-lined streets in between its stylish boutiques and independent stores.
Whether you’re an international student, a young professional, or simply seeking a new base in East London, Hackney offers plenty to love. From incredible food to iconic markets, and from tranquil canals to buzzing nightlife, this is a neighbourhood that keeps you inspired.
Here’s everything you need to know – plus our pick of the best things to do in Hackney.
Where is Hackney?
Hackney is a Zone 2 district in East London, part of the London Borough of Hackney (which also includes Shoreditch and Stoke Newington). Just four miles from Charing Cross, it’s one of London’s most creative hubs.
Covering around eight square miles, Hackney is one of London’s most densely populated areas and is made up of several sub-districts, each with its own charm – including Hackney Central, Hackney Wick, Dalston, De Beauvoir Town, and both Upper and Lower Clapton.
Like any big city district, Hackney has both lively and quieter corners, so it’s wise to stay aware of your surroundings. But once you’ve found your feet, you’ll discover a welcoming, culturally rich community.
Transport links
Hackney might not have a Tube station, but it more than makes up for it with a well-connected network of overground trains and buses.
Trains
Hackney Wick (Mildmay Line): Regular services to Stratford, Highbury & Islington, and Willesden Junction.
London Fields (Weaver Line): Routes to Liverpool Street, Stratford, and Fenchurch Street.
Hackney Central: Connections to Liverpool Street, Stratford, and Gospel Oak.
Hackney Downs: Routes to Liverpool Street, Cheshunt, and Enfield Town.
Dalston Junction: Overground services to Highbury & Islington, Clapham Junction, and Crystal Palace.
Dalston Kingsland: Regular trains to Stratford, Highbury & Islington, and Clapham Junction.
Homerton: Routes to Stratford and Liverpool Street.
Buses
Hackney’s buses reach all over London, connecting to Oxford Street, Bank, Euston, Victoria, and more. Popular routes include the 26, 30, 38, 55, and 56.
Local schools and universities
While Hackney itself isn’t a major university centre, it’s close to some of London’s top academic institutions – all easily accessible by public transport, often within 30 minutes.
City, University of London – 30 minutes by bus.
Central Saint Martins – 10 minutes by train.
Loughborough University London – 15 minutes by bus or five minutes by train.
University of East London – 10 minutes by train.
Queen Mary University – 15 minutes by bus.
Things to do in Hackney
From outdoor adventures to cultural gems, Hackney is bursting with activities. Whether you’re after a casual afternoon or a more sophisticated experience, you’ll never be short of ideas.
Swim at London Fields Lido – One of the few remaining lidos in London, this Olympic-sized outdoor pool is heated all year round, so you can swim even in the depths of winter. In summer, the poolside lawns turn into a sun-soaked hangout for locals with iced coffees and picnic blankets. Local tip: Early mornings are the quietest – you’ll have the lanes almost to yourself.
Catch a show at the Hackney Empire – More than just a theatre, this Grade II-listed venue is also a cinema, comedy club, and opera house. A local treasure, it’s hosted everyone from Charlie Chaplin to modern stand-up comedians, and the atmosphere inside is magical. Local tip: Keep an eye out for last-minute ticket deals on weekday shows.
Visit the Viktor Wynd Museum – A surreal blend of art gallery and curiosity shop, Viktor Wynd shines a spotlight on the darker side of life. Exploring fairytales, cults, witchcraft, vampires, and other curious trends, with its unique artefacts from across the globe. Local tip: The adjoining cocktail bar serves some of the most creative drinks in Hackney.
Relax in Victoria Park – Known as “the People’s Park,” this sprawling green space is perfect for everything from picnics to paddle boating on the West Lake. Seasonal festivals and outdoor concerts make it a year-round favourite. Local tip: The Pavilion Café by the lake (in the park) does excellent sourdough sandwiches.
Browse Columbia Road Flower Market – Every Sunday, this narrow street explodes with colour and scent. Traders sell everything from roses to lemon trees, and the surrounding shops offer antiques, art, and pastries. Local tip: Go after 2pm for bargain prices as stalls start winding down.
Take a street art tour – Hackney is a giant outdoor gallery, with old walls transformed into striking murals and graffiti masterpieces. A tour ensures you see both the big works and the hidden gems. Local tip: Bring a camera – the art changes regularly, so no two visits are alike.
Walk the River Lee Navigation – A scenic canal running through Hackney, the River Lee Navigation passes colorful houseboats, green parks, and pop-up bars, making it a perfect route for a stroll. Local tip: Stop at Crate Brewery for a pizza and a pint right on the water.
Whether you’re after vibrant nightlife, artisan markets, or leafy walks, the sheer variety of things to do in Hackney makes it one of London’s most exciting districts.
Where to eat and drink
Restaurants
Hackney is a food-lover’s paradise, offering everything from vegan comfort food to high-end dining. Highlights include:
Third Culture – A must-visit vegan café putting a plant-based twist on Italian-American classics, with epic toasties and inventive small plates. Local tip: Their truffle mac and cheese is a local favourite.
Mare Street Market – A stunning former town hall filled with food stalls, a deli, and a leafy beer garden. From wood-fired pizza to fresh oysters, it’s a social hub from morning coffee to evening cocktails. Local tip: Visit midweek to avoid weekend crowds.
Sune – Refined but relaxed, Sune offers beautifully presented, seasonal dishes in a friendly, welcoming setting. Think exquisite seafood conjurings and deserts that could pass as art pieces. Local tip: Book in advance – it’s small and always busy.
Cafe Cecilia – A stylish, contemporary fine-dining restaurant with a minimalist aesthetic, specialising in rich, French-inspired British classics. Located canal-side overlooking the Regent’s Canal, it’s perfect for brunch or a leisurely lunch. Local tip: Their Guinness bread sells out fast – order it early.
Casa Fofo – A Michelin-starred, intimate dining spot offering seasonal tasting menus that surprise with every course. Local tip: Opt for the wine pairing – it’s thoughtfully chosen and enhances each dish.
Pubs and bars
Cat + Mutton – A lively market-side pub (on Broadway Market) with great beers, a killer Sunday roast, and a buzzing atmosphere. Local tip: Bag a window seat or outdoor table for people-watching on Broadway Market.
Five Points Brewing – Local craft beer at its freshest, served in a bright, friendly taproom. Local tip: Join one of their brewery tours to sample experimental brews.
Howling Hops – A top brewery in Hackney Wick, pouring quality craft beers straight from massive tanks. The tank bar also features a tasty Latin-themed menu with tacos, burritos, and rice bowls, served daily from noon to night. Local tip: Howling Hops is a fantastic spot to book for a birthday or special celebration.
Netil360 – A fun rooftop hangout with panoramic views over East London, street food stalls, and live DJs. Local tip: Sunset hours at Netil360 are magic – arrive early to claim a beanbag.
Where to live
Looking for Hackney apartments for rent? The area offers a stylish mix of premium flats, modern studios, and even spacious houses. Here are a few recommended options:
Dalston High Street
Contemporary studios just minutes from nightlife, vintage shops, and transport links. Residents enjoy a gym, concierge, and communal workspace. The property’s on-site microbrewery is a great spot to meet neighbours or class mates over a pint.
The East Eight
Modern and comfortable one-bedroom apartments on Broadway Market, ideal for anyone wanting the best things to do in Hackney just steps away. The apartments feature state of the art HDTVs, in-unit laundry facilities, and a private outdoor space.
Mortimer Road
An exceptional three-bedroom house in leafy De Beauvoir Town, blending period charm with modern comfort. This luxury home boasts wooden floors with underfloor heating, ambient skylights and concertina doors that open out to the outdoor terrace.
A little about us
With vibrant street art, scenic canals, and a thriving food and nightlife scene, Hackney offers endless things to do. From leafy parks to bustling markets and cutting-edge galleries, it’s a neighbourhood where culture, style, and local life come together.
With the Hackney apartments for rent we’ve recommended, you’ll be perfectly placed to enjoy all the best things to do in Hackney.
