Shakespeare's first stage
Long before the street art, Shoreditch had a place in theatre history. The Theatre, built by James Burbage in 1576, and The Curtain, opened soon after, were among London's first purpose-built playhouses, and Shakespeare's company performed here before moving to Bankside. Archaeologists have uncovered the remains of both.
In the twentieth century, Shoreditch was a centre of furniture making and small industry. From the 1990s, artists, designers and later tech companies moved in, and the roundabout at Old Street gained the nickname Silicon Roundabout. Hoxton Square, Redchurch Street and the walls around Rivington Street are known for galleries, shops and street art.
What to see
- Street art – around Rivington Street, Great Eastern Street and Brick Lane.
- Museum of the Home – rooms through time in former almshouses.
- Boxpark Shoreditch – shops and food in shipping containers.
- Columbia Road – the Sunday flower market nearby.
Eating and nightlife
Shoreditch has some of London's liveliest bars, clubs and restaurants, especially around Shoreditch High Street, Curtain Road and Old Street. Brick Lane, on the eastern edge, is known for its bagel shops and curry houses.
A suggested half day
Start at the Museum of the Home, walk down Kingsland Road to Hoxton Square, then explore the street art around Rivington Street and Redchurch Street. On Sundays, visit Columbia Road Flower Market in the morning.
Getting there
Shoreditch High Street and Hoxton are on the London Overground, and Old Street is on the Northern line. Liverpool Street, with the Elizabeth line and Stansted Express, is a short walk away.
Getting there with Mason & Green
London City and Stansted are both usually convenient. Nightlife areas are very busy late on Fridays and Saturdays, and some streets are closed to traffic, so we agree a pickup point in advance for late collections.
See our Stansted Airport transfers and London City Airport transfers pages.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best street art in Shoreditch?
Around Rivington Street, Great Eastern Street, Redchurch Street and nearby Brick Lane.
Did Shakespeare work in Shoreditch?
Yes. His company performed at The Theatre and The Curtain before moving to the Globe at Bankside.
Can you collect late at night in Shoreditch?
Yes. We agree a quieter pickup point to avoid crowds and road closures.