Hackney did once have a bit of a bad reputation for being downtrodden and crime-ridden, but parts of Hackney have now been transformed into super-trendy hotspots where everyone wants to be seen; on the fringe of the City, Shoreditch and Hoxton are rich in cultural events, cosmopolitan restaurants, nightclubs and comedy venues.
Hackney has come a long, long way from its downtrodden past. Gentrification has transformed the borough into one of London’s most desirable places to live, whether it’s trendy Shoreditch and Dalston rich in cultural events, cosmopolitan restaurants, and nightclubs, or the family-friendly Stoke Newington and Clapton, a hit with yummy mummies and young professionals. There are still arty, semi-affordable pockets though - Hackney Wick, the most isolated part of the borough, is home to more artists per capita than anywhere else in the world; it’s also seen renewed interest since the 2012 Olympics took place in the nearby Olympic Park.
Although there’s no tube, the sprucing up of the overground has made getting across the city much quicker; another of Hackney’s assets is Victoria Park, a sprawling green space which attracts thousands each summer thanks to music festivals like Lovebox. It’s also surrounded by some of the Hackney’s prettiest homes.
