Retail therapy
Then there’s the hypnotic markets, which bring all walks of life together. Hackney Flea Market, Broadway Market and Ridley Road are three of the best, packed to the brim with stalls selling fruit and veg, handmade jewellery and retro prints. In fact, we can’t mention Hackney without paying homage to its vintage wares. The best dedicated stores can be found in Dalston, with visitors spending hours trawling the treasures in Oxfam on Kingsland Road.
A slower pace
With all that, it’s easy to think of Hackney as an urban metropolis, but that wouldn’t be doing it justice. Lots of its candy-coloured neighbourhoods have a distinct village feel; such as those near London Fields, Chatsworth Road and Hackney Wick. In these areas you’ll find independent stores, canal-side walks and leisurely park picnics (the borough brags 800-plus acres of green). It could be easy to forget you’re in London; but residents benefit from brilliant train and tube connections to the likes of Canary Wharf, Oxford Street and Liverpool Street.
Residential developments in Hackney
When it comes to choosing where to live, young professionals especially can take their pick from smart new-build properties. For those who like to be in the thick of it, Dalston Curve is a great option. This 106-strong apartment collection can be found on Dalston’s Kingsland High Street. Fringed by vintage shops, Vietnamese restaurants and also, reliable transport links.
“The location is great in between Dalston Kingsland and Dalston Junction stations. Dalston is a really fun place to live with amazing restaurants, bars, cafes etc. When you just want a quiet evening, the sound insulation keeps out the buzz so the building quality is good. The same goes for heat insulation – it’s toasty in the winter! There’s a lovely roof garden round the back and residents are very friendly.” – Anonymous, verified resident at Dalston Curve
On the same road as Dalston Curve there’s FiftySevenEast, a Taylor Wimpey property managed by Cushman & Wakefield. This stylish tower is next to Dalston Kingsland station. With design-led apartments and also, a front lobby inspired by Hackney’s street art. A great place to rent in Hackney.
“Well built. Good design. I was looking for an apartment that is close to the city but still provides a good balance of life in east London. The development provides excellent quality living. Management have been quick to deal with any snags or issues.” – Anonymous, verified resident at FiftySevenEast