Living in Hackney
Hackney is fast becoming one of the trendiest and most exciting places in London to live, with major regeneration transforming the area into one of the most desirable locations for young professionals, young couples, and students. In fact, Hackney is now such a magnet for young Londoners that only 15% of its population is aged 55 or above!
Along with its lively neighbours Shoreditch and Hoxton, Hackney is enormously popular with those working in the creative industries, and this concentration of artistic talent is evident in its wide range of independent shops, quirky bars and restaurants, and live performance venues. Its streets, underpasses, and rooftops also display some of the most exciting, vibrant street art London has to offer, prompting many to speculate that Hackney might soon replace Shoreditch as the capital’s premier graffiti Mecca.
As far as homes in Hackney go, its long history and recent regeneration means there are properties available to suit every taste. For those who prefer a period piece, there are a significant number of beautiful, Georgian houses and cosy, flat-fronted Victorian terraces. If that isn’t your thing, you can also find new, modern co-living spaces in Hackney’s converted industrial warehouses, and many trendy new-build blocks such as Monohaus. This is a development of 47 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments which also boasts restaurants, shopping facilities and workspaces. Due to the convenience of the commute and the opportunity to live in a community of like-minded individuals, these warehouse conversions and modern developments are particularly popular with the many young professionals working in start-ups across East London.
Transport
Tube:
Hackney Central/Hackney Downs/Hackney Wick Zone 2: Overground
Hackney to Bethnal Green: 6-minute tube
Hackney to Liverpool Street: 7-minute tube
Hackney to Stratford: 8-minute tube
Hackney to Camden: 13-minute tube
Hackney to Queens Park: 27-minute tube
Train:
Hackney Central Station has trains departing to Stratford, Clapham Junction and Richmond that take 13 minutes, 57 minutes and 55 minutes respectively.
Bus:
Bus Number 48: Liverpool Street & London Bridge
Bus Number 55: Oxford Circus
Bus Number 106: Whitechapel
Bus Number 277: Canary Wharf
Bus Number 242 & 254: Aldgate East
Average Rental Price
1 bed: £1,470 pcm
2 bed: £1,874 pcm
3 bed: £2,646 pcm
4 bed: £3,415 pcm
Council Tax
To be paid to Hackney Council
https://www.hackney.gov.uk/counciltax
Schools
There are several schools in Hackney which have been rated ‘Outstanding' by Ofsted. The best primary schools include St John & St James C of E, Orchard, Kingsmead, London Fields and Holy Trinity C of E. The best secondary schools are The City Academy, Clapton Girls and Mossbourne.
Life in Hackney
With its quirky bars and unusual eateries, Hackney is rising up the list of destination boroughs for those looking to relocate within London. Properties in Hackney are often more affordable than those in neighbouring areas and the excellent transport links into Central London make it a convenient location for commuters. In Hackney, you will find that there is something to explore on every street, whether that be food, drinks, or entertainment. Below are some of our suggestions for the best places to visit in Hackney.
Food & Drink:
For a hearty bowl of Ramen, head to Tonkotsu Mare Street where hardworking chefs start work every day at 6am to ensure all their dishes are made from scratch. We recommend you try the classic Tonkotsu Ramen – pork broth enriched with pork fat and sea salt served with thin, homemade noodles and a variety of tasty toppings. Finish your meal with one of Tonkotsu’s weird and wonderful dessert options, such as the salted caramel, miso, chocolate and Guinness cake ice cream sandwich.
Grow is a lively, independent bar, kitchen and creative space that puts ethics and sustainability at the heart of their business. With a picturesque riverside location, Grow has a Middle Eastern/Mediterranean-inspired menu that uses ingredients sourced locally to minimise their environmental impact. All their suppliers are paid the London Living Wage, packaging is compostable, and all the meat is free range. We suggest trying the Middle Eastern Tacos (served with hummus, sumac, pickled cabbage, red onions, herb sauce and harissa) paired with a Hemp White Russian Cocktail or an Aztec Chocolate Martini. Grow also hosts a variety of late-night events where you can dance and party till the early hours of the morning. In particular, it is central to the local jazz scene and there are few better places anywhere in the city to catch a swinging jam session.
- Brew for Two
Brew for Two is a charming and quaint café located a short walk from Hackney Central Station. With a bright interior, outdoor seating and an international menu, Brew for Two definitely has something for everyone to enjoy. You can choose from cuisines such as Latin, Scandinavian, Oriental, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and American, as well as all your favourite British café classics. We recommend the slow roasted chicken, baked halloumi on vegetables, and salmon and cream cheese bagel. There is also a wide selection of cakes, pies, pastries, teas and coffees available if you’re in need of a hearty hangover cure on a Saturday!
Culture & Leisure:
- Broadway Market
Home to over 135 stalls, Broadway Market is a thriving Victorian street market that runs from Hackney Central to the Regent’s Canal. Open on Saturday between 9am and 5pm, Broadway Market offers shoppers a selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, coffee, books and clothing to peruse at their leisure. If you find yourself feeling peckish, there are plenty of hot food stalls where you can satisfy your hunger. In particular we recommend the toasted sandwiches from Deeneys, the crab-cake burger from Fin and Founders, and the cinnamon bun from Nyborg’s Kitchen. Although there are no stalls on weekdays, Broadway Market is still worth a visit to explore over 70 cafés, boutiques and restaurants that line the street.
- St Augustine’s Tower
Climb up Hackney’s oldest building and experience breath-taking views of the City and beyond. The stunning St Augustine’s Tower was formerly part of the Church of St Augustine. While the main church was demolished in 1790, the original tower was preserved and remains open to the public. to climb 105 feet of stunning piece of architecture. Ascending all 105ft of the tower using its narrow, spiral staircase is quite a mission, but it will be more than worth it when you see the views of the skyline on offer at the top. You can walk up the tower every last Sunday of the month between 2pm and 4:30pm.
- The Hackney Empire
Built in 1901 as a music hall, The Hackney Empire is now a theatre that showcases the arts in all its variations, ranging from comedy to opera and everything in between. Set in Grade II listed building, The Hackney Empire has a stunning red brick façade and atmospheric grand hall with the capacity for 1,275 guests. The Empire offers an Artist Development Programme for people aged between 13 and 19, and the aim of the programme is to mentor and train aspiring artists looking for a career in the creative industries.
Is it for you?
Ideal for those interested in art, food, fashion, and technology, Hackney is a hub for new businesses, creative innovation, and spectacular street art. With its diverse and rapidly expanding community of young creatives, it is fast becoming the go-to place for those looking to experience London off the beaten path. If you are a student, young professional, or an incorrigible hipster who remains young at heart, you will love the vibrant nightlife and wide array of cultural experiences on offer, as well as the excellent transport links into central London that ensure residents enjoy a manageable daily commute.
