Last Updated on 15 September, 2023
Shoreditch High street is one of the oldest streets in London connecting Kingsland road to Norton Folgate. In the past, the street had a prestigious music hall and theatre but they no longer exist in the street due to redevelopments and other renovations in the area.
Shoreditch is among my favourite places in London. It is a vibrant, colourful part of London, with trendy bars, restaurants, cafes, and markets in addition to being home to 2 of London’s city farms. One of which I have already shared on the blog; Hackney City Farm.
There is plenty to do in Shoreditch, there is an amazing food court at Boxpark, the area has seen major changes in recent years making it a sought-after place to live in.
A Little History Of Shoreditch High Street
The history of Shoreditch High Street is not quite clear but it can be traced to the 17th century when it is believed that business started rising in the street. A few buildings were set up in the street where people could visit and buy a variety of goods.
In 1837, The National Standard Theatre was opened in the street. It grew quickly that in the 19th century, the theatre was one of the biggest in London.
In 1926, the theatre was converted into the New Olympia Picturedrome cinema but did not last for long. It was later demolished in 1940 and a new multi-purpose business structure was set up. But before it was demolished, celebrities of that generation like Mrs. Marriot, Sims Reeves, and James Robertson had performed there.
Another notable event to happen in the street at almost the same time was the opening of the London Music hall in 1856. The hall lasted for almost a decade, closing in 1934. No hall had lasted that long in the history of the street.
With the modern developments, the area looks totally different than it looked a decade ago with few houses that existed still left. Most of them are under development and a majority of them were demolished to give room for new ones as land in London is at a premium. Today, you can find a lot of modern shops in the street but evidently, with developments still in progress, the street will be unrecognisable even in 3-5 years’ time.
Things to Do Near Shoreditch High Street
Wondering what else you can do on this street? There are a lot of places near the street that you can visit and there are also things you can do. From visiting the beautiful Columbia Road Flower Market to eating your way through brunch in Shoreditch or checking out the amazing cafes that are dotted around Shoreditch. For additional inspiration see below.
Brick Lane Market
It is relatively difficult to avoid the Brick Lane market. There is almost everything you could need in this market. This is not an ordinary market where you only go shopping for clothes and foodstuff.
It is one of those markets where you can sample live musical performances, enjoy their culture, and more. Be sure to also check out the many vintage shops that line Brick Lane.
Boxpark Shoreditch
This is a place for those people who love street foods to sample bars and live events. It brings communities together through many activities taking place in the area.
With the warm welcome in the area, you will not get bored once you get to Boxpark Shoreditch. Always check for live events on their website if you are a fan.
Boundary Gardens
This is a historically significant garden where you can a lot of London’s history. As the name suggests, it is a small circular building standing at the center of Arnold Circus. Most of the buildings around the area are solid Victorian blocks. There is a lot that you will learn in this area.
Beigel Bake Brick Lane Bakery
You simply cannot come this far into Shoreditch and not stop by for a salted beef bagel at Beigel Bake. This historical fixture on Brick Lane Bakery is open 24/7 and has been going on for decades. You can normally find the queue snaking around the corner. We assure you it is worth it!
Spitalfields Market
Spitalfields market is loved by locals and tourists who visit the best because of the unique products that are always found in this market. Apart from fashion and accessories, there is a variety of jewelry that flow into this market.
It is relatively difficult to walk through the market and fail to get something that will please you. You can also stop by for food, they have everything from vegan, to vegetarian and plenty for meat lovers.
Spitalfields City Farm
Spitalfields City Farm offers a unique experience that is rare in city settings. This modern farm has everything that will excite you from small animals to plants. The experienced tour guides will take you through a few things that you need to know about the farm. Come with your book ready to take notes.
Junkyard Golf Club | Crazy Golf Shoreditch
Junkyard Golf Club is an amazing club that you can visit at any time but there are some restrictions for those under 18s. They allow supervised under-18s between Wednesday and Sunday. Nothing beyond 7 pm with the last golf at 6 pm for under 18s.
Dennis Severs House
This house has existed for about two decades with thousands of tours taking place in the course of this time. It takes about 90 minutes for a complete tour throughout the house. The tour guide will explain to you most of the features of the house and their significance.
Autograph Art Gallery
The autograph art gallery has existed since 1988 and its aim is on those artists who question human rights, representation, race, and social justice. They invite people from around the globe to explore the critical and creative power of visual representation.
Museum of the Home
This museum is open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. Since it is free to visit, there is no need to book.
There are many festivals, like the winter festival, that are about to come. There are also exhibitions and installations if you are a fan of that.
Notable Shops On Shoreditch High Street
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Cherry Bee Fashion
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The Brokedown Palace
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Weekday
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AIDA Shoreditch
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SNS London
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Cowling & Wilcox
- Carhartt WIP Store London Shoreditch
How To Get To Shoreditch High Street
Getting To Shoreditch is fairly easy as there are plenty of bus routes passing through. Plenty of buses arriving from London Bridge, Waterloo, Old Street, Hackney and beyond. The nearest stations are Shoreditch Hight Street Station, Liverpool Street, Old Street and Hoxton Stations. See map below for additional directions.
