The Dalston Eastern Curve Garden is so hidden that you’d be forgiven for walking straight past it. Built back in 2010 on the site of a disused railway line, it’s a local secret: a quiet, forest-like space to retreat to when city life becomes overwhelming.

All year round, the garden is buzzing with activity. Some come to enjoy seasonal treats at the on-site café (think wood-fired pizza, mulled wine, and cakes topped with edible flowers). Others, hoping to connect with fellow Hackney residents, will attend concerts, crafts workshops, and volunteer gardening sessions.

During the day, the space is mostly occupied by young families, who come to admire the plants and pop-up installations before trundling down the bark-chip tracks to the children’s play area. However, it is at night, when the crowds have dispersed and the lanterns and fairy lights have been switched on, that the garden is at its most magical.