Dive into Dalston: London’s Hippest Neighbourhood
Last updated Jan 06, 2025
Have you heard the news? There’s a brand new Staycity Aparthotel in London’s trendiest neighbourhood, Dalston! So, if you fancy planning a Springtime getaway to East London, there’s a fab new spot to stay.
History and Culture
Dalston offers a blend of rich history and contemporary culture. One of London’s most vibrant and energetic neighbourhoods, visitors will be spoiled for choice when it comes to having an authentic London experience that’s a little off the beaten path. Dalston is home to several well-known landmarks, including the independent Rio Cinema, open since 1909, and the Dalston Eastern Curve Garden, a community garden and events space – make sure you check out their fantastic café too!
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The Ridley Road Market has been on the go in Dalston since the 1880s and is one of the most vibrant markets in East London. Visitors can peruse over 150 stalls selling everything from global street food to vintage treasures. Dalston is also known for its street art, with colourful murals and graffiti lining many of its walls, reflecting the neighbourhood’s ever-evolving creative spirit.
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Music and Theatre
Dalston likes to put on a show – especially in the realms of music and theatre. The Arcola Theatre, set in what was formerly the Colourworks paint factory building, hosts exciting productions, often featuring new writing and avant-garde performances that you won't find in the West End. They always have an exciting programme of upcoming plays and performances - you can check out what’s on here.
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Music lovers will feel right at home here too. Dalston is famous for its live music venues, such as the Dalston Roof Park, a rooftop bar and cultural space offering fantastic views over the city and a variety of live events, from DJ sets to live bands. Dalston Culture House combines the legendary Vortex Jazz Club with studio spaces, a bar and café. Nearby, venues like The Jazz Cafe and Moth Club regularly host a range of performances, offering an opportunity to experience the best of London's music scene, from indie and jazz to reggae and hip-hop.
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Foodie Paradise
Dalston is a melting pot of cultures, and this is reflected in the food scene. Whether you’re craving authentic Caribbean food, Turkish delicacies, or modern European cuisine, Dalston offers an impressive array of eateries to explore. The aforementioned Ridley Road Market is a fabulous place to discover global cuisine. A feast for the senses, the many stalls offer everything from fresh produce to African spices and Caribbean ingredients.
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For a more contemporary twist, there are plenty of trendy cafes and restaurants. Check out Gordo’s Pizzeria for some of the best pizza in the area, or head to Dalston Superstore, a popular LGBTQ+ bar and restaurant known for its quirky interior, amazing cocktails, and delicious Drag Brunch! Vegan and vegetarian options are abundant, with restaurants like Mildred's and the Andu Vegan Cafe offering delicious plant-based fare that’s as creative as it is flavoursome.
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For the coffee-lovers, Dalston is home to the fantastic Allpress Espresso. Coffee roasters and espresso specialists, they roast their own coffee for some of the best independent cafes in the world. Their coffee shop in Dalson is where Allpress do their roasting and barista training, and is set in a beautiful old joiner’s factory building. The space is light and airy with a cool, contemporary feel – and they do a mean sandwich or breakfast plate, too.
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A Central Location
Dalston’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the rest of London. The area is served by two major stations, Dalston Junction and Dalston Kingsland, both offering fast and frequent Overground services into central London. From here, it’s easy to hop on the train and reach major attractions like the Tower of London, the British Museum, or Covent Garden within 20 minutes.
Dalston is also well-connected by bus, making it simple to get around the rest of East London and beyond. The neighbourhood is close to other cool areas like Hackney, Islington, and Shoreditch, all of which are just a short journey away.
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An Authentic East London Experience
One of the best things about staying in Dalston? The authentic East London experience. The neighbourhood diverse, with a distinct community feel. Walking down its lively streets, you’ll encounter a real blend of cultures, languages, and experiences that represent the true essence of London. The area has a friendly and welcoming vibe, and the mix of traditional and modern elements gives it a character that is distinctly Dalston.
Whether you're into history, culture, food, or music, Dalston has it all, while being well connected to central London and other boroughs. With its distinctive energy and urban buzz, Dalston is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to experience the best of London in a truly authentic way.
