Finding a local community to be a part of not only gives you a great support system but also connects you to like-minded brands. We’ve rounded up four of the best local neighbourhoods to launch your idea in right now.
Stoke Newington
Where Dalston comes to grow up – it’s where the cool kids move on to have their own. Church Street in particular is a little village of neighbourhood cafes and boutiques selling gifts, homewares and mid-range designer labels. Never has a street fostered such strong community spirit between its residents, who’ve always been anti-chains (none have made it here since Nandos). The F&B scene is booming, too, with news of restaurants like The Good Egg and L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele spreading across town. Stokey’s even got its own literary festival.
Appear at the Stoke Newington Boutique Shop Share.
Brixton
Unapologetically unpolished and authentic, Brixton beats to its own drum. Caribbean, African, European and South Asian communities all come together to make up this multicultural mecca, which is evident for anyone who’s walked through the stalls of the daily open-air markets. Brixton Village itself has become the area’s own culinary and cultural hub – a place to shop independent businesses, check out the music scene, and enjoy a drink with the locals.
Appear at The Grey Corner Shop.
Herne Hill
In between Brixton and Dulwich, this pocket of south London has a real family-friendly, village-like vibe. The pedestrianisation of the areas in front of the station has brought new energy to Herne Hill – it’s home to a charming parade of shops on Dulwich Road and the popular Sunday Herne Hill Market selling everything from crafts to tartiflette. In the summer months, Brockwell Park plays host to the Lambeth Country Show, but all year round it’s got community greenhouses, multiple duck ponds, sports courts, and one of the city’s best lidos.
Appear at Milkwood Road’s Retail Arch.
Clapton
Yes, Clapton’s yet another east London neighbourhood that’s been coined as hip – but it really is all the rage these days. Stroll out the railway station and you’ll immediately stumble upon three warehouse spaces transformed into a brewery, a retro dining hall and a boutique gym with a bone-broth bar. And let’s not forget Chatsworth Road. A gang of butchers, bakers and candlestick makers have made their home at the glorious Sunday food market, and this weekend-only homeware store, Triangle, has successfully made a name for itself with its collection of handmade ceramics, leather goods, toys, and more.
Appear at the Clapton Gallery Space.