5 Reasons to live in Shoreditch

Shoreditch has traded post-industrial neglect for a quirky creativity that makes setting up home here the ultimate lifestyle choice, but what makes the neighbourhood so cool for homeowners and renters alike? Here are five reasons:

Commercial history

The streets of Shoreditch are where traditional East End entrepreneurship mingles with cutting-edge technology and an openness to new ways of thinking. Anyone who thinks that they have found an original start-up business plan had better check out this neighbourhood first, because it’s probably been done here already. However, you don’t get the feeling that people are continuously chasing after profits: this is a place that has soul. Shoreditch is the London birthplace of funky work spaces and Huckletree is a prime example. Housed within the Edwardian splendour of the Alphabeta building, it doesn’t feel like a workplace as the interior vibe is more like boutique hotel meets multi-level space station!

Culturally cool

Shoreditch may be intentionally hip, but part of its charm lies in the fact that it was once a cockney stronghold and places like the Columbia Road Flower Market are a link to its working-class roots. The market has moved with the times and is now complemented by independent delis, art galleries and fashion boutiques. It’s worth a visit just to look at the wildly colourful shopfronts alone. Shoreditch Town Hall and St Leonard’s Church are two iconic landmarks that are steeped in history. The Town Hall is a beautifully-preserved example of Italianate Victorian architecture, while the church dates back to Georgian times (mid-18th Century).

Lively social scene

Walkalong any of Shoreditch’s main streets and you’ll be struck by the colour and invention of the street art. Dazzling murals adorn shops, apartments and office blocks with a special area having been created by global art celebrity, Banks. People here can re-purpose even the most unpromising spaces orequipment. Old motor scooters become restaurant furniture and the amazing Box Park, near the Overground station is a shopping centre made entirely out of disused shipping containers. London’s push for sustainability starts in Shoreditch and wherever you go, there are innovative restaurants, artisan coffee bars and some of the best night spots in the Capital. Shoreditch never stands still.

Well connected

The upgraded Overground rail system is an orbital network that connects Shoreditch with other Uber-cool neighbourhoods via Shoreditch High Street station. Zone 2 areas like Camden, Hampstead, Shepherd’s Bush and Clapham can all be easily reached. Liverpool Street Station is a short stroll away and is due to be a major stop on the new Elizabeth Line (aka Crossrail) which will enable Shoreditch residents to reach Heathrow Airport in under 20 minutes. The station already operates a shuttle service to Stanstead Airport – ideal for short European flights – and is a main Tube interchange for the Central, Metropolitan and Hammersmith & City Lines.

A commute-free lifestyle

Located on the northeastern fringe of London’s Square Mile, Shoreditch is just a quick walk/jog/cycle away from some of the financial district’s major office buildings. Corporate professionals are choosing to live in new property developments such as Canaletto, Shoreditch Exchange and 250 City Road which offer a smart combination of luxury apartment living and five-star facilities on-site.

Our branches are situated right in the centre of the action here, so if you are looking to buy a property in Shoreditch or let an existing property, why not get in touch. Our friendly local staff will be able to help you find everything from vintage fashion and a craft beer outlet, to which apartments provide the best citywide views. Contact our Shoreditch branch.