The Best Things to Do in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is one of London’s most vibrant and eclectic areas, packed with exciting things to do no matter what brings you here. Whether you’re exploring with friends, planning a date, looking for a fun family day out, or just making the most of your time in the city, there’s something for everyone. From thrilling escape rooms and immersive gaming experiences to world-class street art, buzzing markets, and hidden cocktail bars, Shoreditch is full of surprises.

Whether you’re visiting during the day or checking out the nightlife, we’ve got you covered.

Amazing Games in Shoreditch

If you’re looking for a bit of adventure, Shoreditch has some of the best interactive experiences in London. Whether you’re solving mysteries in an escape room or battling it out on retro arcade machines with a cocktail in hand, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

Enigma Quests – Immersive Escape Room Adventures

For a thrilling challenge that puts your teamwork and problem-solving skills to the test, Enigma Quests offers three unique escape room experiences right in the heart of Shoreditch. Sneak into The Million Pound Heist, where you and your team will attempt to break into a high-security vault and escape with as much money as possible before time runs out. If you’re a fan of all things fantasy, School of Witchcraft & Wizardry lets you live out your magical dreams as you face your end-of-year exams. And for lovers of adventure, Submarine: Mission Wavebreak takes you deep underwater to stop a catastrophic disaster in a high-tech submarine setting.

Built upon devious interconnected puzzles, immersive environments, and thrilling stories, Enigma Quests’ escape rooms are ideal for families, friends, and couples, with helpful Questmasters on hand to ensure players of all experience levels have a fantastic time.

An Arcade Paradise… With Cocktails!

If you love classic arcade games, NQ64 is a must-visit. This underground gaming bar is packed with retro favourites like Time Crisis, House of the Dead, Pac-Man, and Street Fighter, alongside classic consoles like the N64 and PlayStation. The best part? You can enjoy it all with a creative cocktail in hand, themed around gaming greats like Kirby and Donkey Kong.

With its mix of old-school games and a buzzing atmosphere, NQ64 is a cool spot for a casual night out, a competitive gaming session, or just a bit of nostalgic fun.

Getting Out and About in Shoreditch

For those who love exploring on foot, Shoreditch is packed with street art, historic markets, and hidden gems. It’s also a fantastic free activity. Here are three must-visit spots:

• Street Art: Shoreditch is London’s street art capital, with ever-changing murals by world-famous artists (including Banksy!). Head to Brick Lane, Rivington Street, and Blackall Alley for the best pieces, with this self-guided tour taking you through the major spots.
• Brick Lane: A cultural hotspot famous for its legendary curry houses, vintage markets, and buzzing street art scene. Explore Upmarket and Backyard Market, grab a curry at Aladin or Sheba, and check out the latest murals.
• Harry Potter Filming Location: Just outside Shoreditch, take a trip into the Wizarding World by visiting Leadenhall Market, used as Diagon Alley within Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. Make sure to also stop by 42 Bull’s Head Passage to see the entrance to the Leaky Cauldron.

Visit a Market in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is packed with markets offering everything from unique fashion and handmade goods to fresh flowers. Here are three must-visit spots:

• Spitalfields Market: A historic market blending independent traders, fashion boutiques, and incredible street food. Browse handcrafted jewellery, vintage clothing, and homeware at the Traders’ Market, then explore the stylish shops and quirky pop-up stalls in Old Spitalfields Market. Don’t forget to grab a bite from one of the many food trucks serving some of the best street food in London. If you’re looking for something to do in Shoreditch on a Saturday, why not visit the Saturday Style Market?
• Columbia Road Flower Market: Every Sunday morning, Columbia Road transforms into a vibrant sea of flowers, plants, and garden accessories. Whether you’re after freshly cut blooms or houseplants, this market is a feast for the senses. It’s not just about flowers – side streets are lined with independent shops, antique stores, and bakeries, making it a perfect Sunday outing.
• Rough Trade East: A music lover’s paradise just off Brick Lane, Rough Trade East is more than just a record shop. Inside this 5,000-square-foot space, you’ll find an impressive vinyl selection, music books, and artist merch, plus a bar and photo booth. The store also hosts live gigs and signings from some of the biggest names in music, making it a must-visit for fans of all genres.

Food & Drink in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is a paradise for food lovers. Here are some top spots to check out:

• Dishoom: Inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom serves up flavour-packed Indian street food in a beautifully styled vintage setting. From grilled meats to rich curries and their legendary black daal, this Shoreditch favourite delivers an authentically delicious dining experience, perfect for a couples’ date night.
• Smokestak: A haven for barbecue lovers, Smokestak is all about slow-cooked meats, deep smoky flavours, and bold sauces. Winner of a Bib Gourmand rating from Michelin, Smokestack is also surprisingly well-priced.
• Pizza Union: This no-frills pizzeria is a great family choice, serving up thin and crispy Roman-style pizzas with simple, high-quality toppings.
• Nightjar: Hidden behind an unassuming door, Nightjar is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar known for its expertly crafted drinks and live jazz and blues. The menu spans pre-prohibition, prohibition, and post-war cocktails, with each drink as artistic as it is delicious. Book ahead for a table or grab a walk-in spot by the bar to watch the magic happen.

Museums to Visit in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is home to a variety of unique museums and galleries. Here are three worth exploring:

• Museum of the Home: Housed in beautiful 18th-century almshouses, this museum explores how home life has changed from 1600 to the present day. With interactive galleries, period room displays, and a great range of exhibits, it’s a fantastic spot for visitors of all ages, including families.
• Whitechapel Gallery: A hub for contemporary art, Whitechapel Gallery has hosted some of the world’s most influential artists. Enjoy a range of exhibitions and events, including some aimed at families. Don’t forget to check out the bookshop and café while you’re there.
• Dennis Severs’ House: Step into a living time capsule at this atmospheric Georgian house in Spitalfields. Created by artist Dennis Severs, the rooms recreate the life of a Huguenot silk-weaving family, complete with period furnishings, candlelight, and even the sounds and scents of the past.

Independent Cinemas in Shoreditch

For film lovers, Shoreditch offers some fantastic independent cinemas that showcase everything from blockbusters to experimental and world cinema. Here are two of the best spots to catch a film:

• Rich Mix: More than just a cinema, Rich Mix is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates film, music, theatre, and visual arts. With three cinema screens, it offers a mix of independent films, global cinema, and big releases, alongside live events and community projects. Every ticket sold also helps fund creative programmes for young people and local communities.
• Close-Up Cinema: A must-visit for true cinephiles, Close-Up Cinema specialises in classic and independent films. With just 40 seats, it’s an intimate space where film history comes to life, often featuring special screenings and filmmaker Q&As. The venue also houses an incredible film library with over 26,000 titles, plus a cosy café and bar where you can sip coffee or wine while diving into film theory books.

Nightlife in Shoreditch

When the sun goes down, Shoreditch comes alive with an incredible mix of live music venues, underground clubs, and creative cocktail bars. Here are two top spots for a night out:

• Village Underground: A legendary Shoreditch venue housed in a converted warehouse, Village Underground is a hub for live music and club nights. Known for showcasing emerging talent and world-class artists, it’s the perfect place to discover new music.
• Trapeze Bar: A three-level circus-inspired bar where creative cocktails and lively music take centre stage. Expect a wild, fun-filled night with a theatrical twist.

Your Fantastic day out in Shoreditch

Shoreditch is an amazing part of London to spend time in, whether you’re seeing the sights, visiting a museum, or taking part in a brilliant escape room, we hope you have a wonderful time.

Explore our brilliant facilities in Shoreditch and Holborn today.