With the advent of smart phones and social media, we are sometimes overwhelmed by an avalanche of photos. Pictures of our friends' children, snapshots of cats making grumpy faces and even portraits of meals in posh restaurants clog our Twitter and Facebook feeds.
The photographs displayed in the Photographers' Gallery shows that having a camera on your phone does not automatically make you a talented photographer; there's more to the art of photography than pointing and clicking. The constantly changing exhibitions challenge visitors to contemplate what makes great photos - is it technical skill with high-level equipment? Is it the delicate balance of light and shadow? Or is it a bond with the sitter of the photograph?
An hour in the gallery (plus a coffee in the modern cafe on the ground floor) makes for a peaceful break from the shopping masses of Oxford Street. Who knows, it might even make your photos of fancy restaurant meals or grumpy cats even more artistic?
The Gallery has recently introduced a small fee for a day pass. However if you arrive before noon, you can enjoy the exhibitions for free!
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The Old Queen’s Head boasts a stunning interior, lively events, and sunny front benches — perfect for soaking up the buzz of Essex Road.
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Camden Passage, a charming pedestrian alley in Islington, is a haven for antique lovers, boutique shoppers, and café-goers, offering a timeless, cozy escape.
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Ridley Road Market, a Hackney staple since the 1800s, offers fresh producs, textiles, and spices at bargain prices. Try the hidden Ararat Bakery’s naan!
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Victoria Park Village, a charming enclave near the park, offers independent shops, cozy pubs, and a relaxed, village-like atmosphere perfect for a weekend visit.
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Paper Dress Vintage in Hackney fuses fashion, live music, and craft beer, transforming from a vintage shop by day to a buzzing venue with gigs and club nights.
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Rio Cinema in Dalston, an Art Deco venue since the 1930s, delights cinephiles with indie films, festivals, cocktails and timeless charm in East London.
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Chatsworth Market offers a relaxed Sunday escape in East London, featuring artisan goods, global street food and a strong community vibe away from crowds.
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God’s Own Junkyard in Walthamstow is a quirky gallery of neon signs, vintage lights, and unique art with free entrance and a café bar to relax in!
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The New River Walk invites you to a serene escape in Islington, with peaceful paths, benches, and scenic views along a historic man-made waterway.
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The De Beauvoir Deli, a neighborhood staple for 15 years, offers artisan cheeses, charcuterie, fresh sandwiches, and more. A true go-to local spot!
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The Anchor & Hope stands out in Hackney for its old-school charm, welcoming mix of locals, cosy decor, and riverside beer garden hidden in East London.
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The Bridge in Shoreditch charms with its quirky retro décor, cosy nooks, and rich coffee aroma, perfect for a winter night out with cocktails or Turkish sweets.
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215 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 215 Insider Tips from our local Spotters