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.
13 Dalston Ln
£
free
Find your way with 246 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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Walpole spent most of his life transforming the building into his own ‘little Gothic castle’, with battlements, arched doorways and stained glass windows.
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Aside from its compelling history, what really sets Fitzrovia Chapel apart is its extraordinary gold mosaic ceiling. So don't forget to look up!
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What really sets Book 28 apart, is their commitment to sourcing intersectional literature that would be unlikely to appear in your average public library.
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Designed in 1822 by Thomas Cubitt (the architect behind large parts of Belgravia & Pimlico), Woburn Walk retains many of its original Georgian shopfronts.
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Savour your food, indulge in good conversation and when you’ve scraped your plate clean, go out onto the patio for a long, drawn-out coffee in the sun.
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Everything I’ve tried in this restaurant is delicious and plentiful. I love the bread, the dips and I can guarantee that their saffron rice is to die for!
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I immediately fell in love with Redemption Roasters for their strong mission, big social impact, and great coffee of course. Plus an excellent brunch menu!
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At the ground level - a quirky interior, cosy seating areas, and a great selection of drinks and food! But if you go upstairs though you will discover...
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An a family-owned independent cheese shop that opened in 1994 and has been going strong since then. Their selection of cheeses is outstanding and varied.
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Barnsbury Wood is enjoyed by Londoners all year round, but it is at its most glorious in the summer months when the trees are drenched in golden sunlight.
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246 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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