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
Blink and you’ll miss it. This private little Loughborough Junction spot is well hidden, down a single-file alley off the otherwise unremarkable Hinton Rd.
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The Hermit’s Cave is the kind of place the pub lovers ‘pop down for a quick one’ before dinner, a gentle spot for a gentle relationship with alcohol...
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Bookmongers truly is one of the gems of Brixton. Just be warned, if you head down with a busy schedule, be prepared to miss your next appointment.
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Inside are people that know each other, who have helped keep their boozer free from the relentless march of gentrification while so many others failed.
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In essence, when it comes to stylish neighbourhood pizza joints, Theo’s has all the bases covered starting with banging pizza, fair prices and good drinks.
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The French House has a long-standing reputation as a central pillar in London's historic district of dastardliness and debauchery...
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"Swingers London" London is a crazy indoors golf course with a bar and lots of street food-style eateries. Tip: get a few cocktails at the bar beforehand.
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"Peckham Levels" is in one of London's most formerly notorious neighborhoods. Now it's one of the coolest neighborhoods -- come and spend a whole day here!
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I have tried to resist repeatedly getting their pain au chocolat and try something else from their wide selection of savoury treats as well...
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222 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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