To celebrate the summer, I would like to share with you my first series of little trips or days around fantastic neighbourhoods around London: places that inspired me, places I would love to paint, and places I would love to preserve.
Earlier this summer I was sort of commuting to Hackney Wick, as if I was having micro-holidays around the area. I completely fell back in love with it after not visiting in a very long time.
In no particular order, and all equally magical for different reasons, here is my perfect Hackney day out.
Ciné-Real 16mm
This spot is just unique and fascinating. You can book the microcinema at the back and enjoy a proper 16mm film projection with your friends for a special celebration. They just updated their signage and it looks spectacular, so it is the perfect excuse to get it painted. I really look forward to painting Umit & Sons very soon!
Innis London
I loved Innis for lunch and I look forward to going back just to order the other half of the menu that I didn’t get to try the first time. And perhaps another half a Guinness!
V&A East Storehouse
An absolute must-visit. I just love the massive, open warehouse vibe of the place where you get a proper behind-the-scenes look at the most amazing mix of objects from their archives. Do not miss this one while you are exploring!
Juju Homestore
Since you are walking around, I loved visiting Juju to grab one of their fantastic matchas and have a look at their lovely selection of homewares.
The Lord Napier Star
I love this spot because of the pure nostalgia of seeing it closed for over 26 years and then the absolute joy of it finally reopening. Covered in incredible street art, it stands as such a brilliant symbol of the area's creative heartbeat that I just had to preserve it on paper.
Leo's
I did fall in love with Leo's. Their pasta and the vermouth and soda just hit the spot on one of the hottest days of the summer. We need to talk about their shop front, too. JUST SIMPLY perfect.
The Kenton
I had to paint this one because it is just iconic and cosy. The contrast of the bright yellow painted woodwork against the traditional architecture makes it a perfect subject and a vibrant local landmark. Plus, it is very pretty inside, with a lovely little beer garden tucked away at the back and fantastic air-con!
CRATE Brewery
It feels like a ritual by now, but if you are in the area, a drink by the canal and the obligatory pizza at CRATE is essential.
The Castle Cinema
If you collect visits to independent cinemas, do not miss this beautiful gem.
The Adam and Eve
This one is personal, but The Adam and Eve just brings me lots of memories. Because it holds such a special place in my heart, it was an absolute delight to capture its very distinct facade.
Lucia's
Get there early to grab one of the tables at the front and get some fantastic tacos!
Whether you're an East London local or planning your own micro-holiday to the area, you can browse all of my East End locations in the East London Prints Collection.
I hope you enjoyed this little area guide of my favourite Hackney spots. I hope to be able to share many more like this with you soon and re-introduce you to another fantastic area of London!