The observant amongst you may notice the Truman name adorned on the exterior walls of many London pubs, particularly in the East End. Truman’s was one of the biggest breweries in the world in the mid 19th century, but fell on hard times and ceased trading in 1989. The sprawling site that straddles Brick Lane and Hanbury street today offers plenty of places to explore – and some areas might not be so obvious so do have a good look around.
The cavernous event spaces host various markets, sample sales and pop-up events, often selling interesting one-off artisan items – this is usually my first port if call when looking for cool gifts. Rough Trade East is arguably one of the best record stores for indie and alternative music in the UK, if not the world. They also have regular instore shows and artist signings to promote album releases – these are often free of charge with a purchase so check their website for details. I also like the variety of high-quality shops in the complex – Son of a Stag is great if you’re looking for raw denim or YMC for functional modern fashion to name just two. The complex offers plenty of options for eating, drinking and dancing, and the All Star Lanes offers a deluxe if rather pricey ten pin bowling experience.
Find your way with 222 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
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.
by
Inside, the rooms have distinctly different decorative styles. This is to give an idea of how the house would have looked at each stage in its history.
by
It was once the site of the Eel Pie Hotel, a 19th-century guesthouse turned jazz venue and now it’s been transformed into a hippie artists’ colony...
by
The domed Arab Hall – a glittering chamber inspired by the inside of the Castello della Zisa in Palermo – is what most visitors come for.
by
Features of particular interest include the Architectural Library, the Solar Stair, a central spiral staircase with 52 steps for each week of the year...
by
Tucked away in Bermondsey, Morocco Bound does it all, it is at once a bookshop, café, co-working space, beer bar and intimate events venue.
by
The Phoenix Garden is remarkably inconspicuous: a bombsite turned car park turned community garden hidden behind high hedges and wrought iron railings.
by
"London Fields Lido" is for those rare days when it's actually hot and sunny. Beat the crowds, head over to this colourful pool and meet me there!
by
"Caravan" London is one of my favourite restaurants for having one of my favourite meals of the day: brunch. It's easy to savour every last bit here and...
by
"Chuku's" in North London serves Nigerian tapas that invites you to 'chop, chat and chill!'
by
In the heart of Southeast London sits "Eltham Palace and Gardens". Once a medieval estate, in the '30s it was styled with mesmerizing art deco furnishings.
by
222 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 222 Insider Tips