23.4.24
East London Neighbourhoods: Our guide to London Fields
Market Cafe, London Fields
North of Bethnal Green and nestled around a park of the same name, this is a neighbourhood bursting with independent shops, pubs old and new and coffee galore. The park is bustling all year round and it’s Lido is a London institution. Broadway Market is the heart centre of this neighbourhood where you’ll find everything from greengrocers to trattorias as well as its famed foodie market every Saturday. We've put together a list our favourite hang outs in the area including a legendary pub, a Hackney institution and a conscious lifestyle brand for modern soul seekers.
Spoilt for choice for great places to eat and drink, here are just a few of our favourites:
Climpson and Sons, Broadway Market. Undoubtedly one of the pioneers of the specialty coffee scene.
Pophams, Richmond Road. Exceptional pastries; their bacon maple croissant is legendary! and a formidable evening pasta menu.
The Cat & Mutton, Broadway Market. One of the oldest and most popular pubs in the area. All the old world charm of traditional boozer with an extensive drinks list, really good food (their Sunday roasts are one of the best around) and DJ nights every weekend.
Market Cafe, Broadway Market. An old favourite on the corner of Broadway market and the canal. The perfect people watching spot.
E5 Bakehouse, Mentmore Terrace. This artisanal bakery is a haven for bread enthusiasts; freshly baked loaves made with organic, locally sourced ingredients.
For dinner and drinks we love Papi on Mentmore Terrace, Elliot's on Mare Street, Brat x Climpson's Arch on Helmsley Place and Bambi in Netil House.
Hackney is jam packed with unique independent brands, one of our favourites is She's Lost Control on Broadway Market. A carefully curated collection of wellness products and gifts for the body, home and mind, along with a curation of experiences and events from sound baths to one-to-one readings.
Apart from its park of the same name, London Fields is certainly most famous for its Lido. The Lido has served as a beloved community amenity for generations of Londoners but what sets London Fields Lido apart is not just its historical significance, but its role as a vibrant community hub. Beyond providing a venue for swimming and sunbathing, the lido hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, from outdoor film screenings and fitness classes to charity fundraisers and art installations.
London Fields and of course the wider Hackney area has undergone significant transformations over the years, reflecting the ever-evolving architectural landscape and demographic shifts of East London.
Originally part of the Hackney Marshes, London Fields began to take shape as a distinct neighborhood during the 19th century amidst London's rapid industrialisation. With the construction of railways and the establishment of factories, it attracted a diverse array of working-class residents seeking employment opportunities.
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, London Fields had transformed into a densely populated residential area, characterised by Victorian terraced houses and Georgian-style townhouses. However, the devastation of World War II led to substantial damage to many of its historic buildings, resulting in widespread demolition and subsequent reconstruction efforts. The post-war period saw the emergence of new housing estates and social housing blocks, altering the neighborhood's architectural makeup.
A period of economic decline then followed and it wasn't until the 80's and 90's that London Fields began to enter another period of change.
Improvements in public transport, such as the expansion of the London Overground and the introduction of new bus routes, made London Fields more accessible to commuters working in central London. Vacant industrial sites and derelict buildings in area became ripe for redevelopment. This presented an opportunity for investment and regeneration, attracting developers and young professionals seeking affordable housing options close to the city center.
The cultural vibrancy and artistic scene of East London also played a significant role in attracting creative individuals and entrepreneurs to London Fields. The area's proximity to artistic hubs like Shoreditch and Hackney Wick, coupled with its affordable rents and industrial-chic aesthetic, made it an appealing destination for artists, designers, and independent businesses.
Today, London Fields showcases a mix of architectural styles, ranging from Victorian heritage buildings to modern developments. The neighborhood continues to evolve, shaped by the interplay between its historic past, modern aspirations, and the diversity of residents who call it home.
You can read more the history of Hackney here.
If you're looking to buy in the area, you can start your search here.
Or, if you're looking to sell your Hackney home, you can get in touch with us here.
Posted on
23/4/24
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