12 Best Things to Do In and Around Brick Lane (2026) — from a Londoner
Looking for the best things to do in Brick Lane? Here’s your ultimate guide to the neighbourhood — from a Londoner.
This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my Disclosure & Privacy Policy for more information.
When it comes to local London, it’s hard not to know about Brick Lane.
The famous street in East London is rich in history and culture — and despite its difficult ‘slum associated’ past, is now a vibrant East London hub and a multicultural capital in the city.
If you’re in East, it’s absolutely not a place to miss.
With that said, here’s everything to do in the area, from street food to curry houses, street art and more. Shall we?
About the Author
Hi, I’m Candace — a London-based travel writer and content creator who traded the East Coast of the US for the charm of the UK back in 2016. London’s been my home ever since.
On this blog, you’ll find hundreds of thoughtfully crafted London, UK, Europe and Worldwide travel guides alongside lots of insider London tips, honest hotel and restaurant reviews and advice for content creators.
P.S. – For more trip inspiration, travel videos, and behind-the-scenes adventures, be sure to follow along (and say hello, if you fancy) on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube.
🗞️📺 As featured on the BBC, USA Today & Recipe.TV.
13 Best Things to Do in Brick Lane
P.S. – Explore London’s neighbourhoods to the fullest with our London Explorer Guides 🏡🇬🇧
How to Get to Brick Lane
Brick Lane is located in the heart of the borough of Tower Hamlets, and getting here is pretty straightforward.
➡️ By tube: The closest stations are Aldgate East, Shoreditch High Street (with the Overground) and Liverpool Street, followed by a 10-minute walk.
➡️ By bus: There’s several routes that’ll lead you to Brick Lane, including 8, 26, 35, 47, 48, 55, 57, 78, 149, 242, 243 and 388.
➡️ If you’re already in East London, you can reach Brick Lane by walking around 10-20 minutes from Whitechapel, Barbican Centre, Aldgate, and Spitalfields.
Once you’re here, you’ll immediately get immersed in the world of street art and curry houses. Which leads us to the best things to do in Brick Lane!
1. Curry House
Brick Lane is renowned for its curry houses. By the late 20th century, it had been nicknamed as ‘Banglatown’ and emerged as the heart of the city’s Bangladeshi-Sylheti community.
On that note, it’d be quite frankly irresponsible of me to not recommend you go to a curry house. Here are some options.
City Spice
Self-referred to as the ‘King of Brick Lane’, this restaurant’s won several foodie awards since 2016, and has a fantastic curry.
Brick Lane Brasserie
Another one of the best in Brick Lane, Brick Lane Brasserie specialises in cuisine from across regions of India.
Standard Balti House
Their signature dishes became classics after millions tried what they think is the ‘best curry in Brick Lane’. I’ll let you be the judge!
P.S. – Whilst you’re walking past the curry houses on Brick Lane, be prepared to giggle as the friendly waiters will ‘fight’ and offer discounts for you to come into their restaurant over their competitors.
2. Brick Lane Street Art
Brick Lane is celebrated worldwide for its amazing collection of urban graffiti and street exhibitions.
There’s hardly a wall or door in Brick Lane that hasn’t been touched by a spray can, with the art-filled walls narrating stories of political protests, social commentaries, and personal expression.
You’ll also spot famous artists here like Banksy, ROA, Mr. Cenz, D*Face, and Invader.
The art scene changes constantly here, you’ll never quite see it all. But all the reason to come back.
P.S. – The most popular streets for street art here are Fashion Street, Heneage Street, Seven Stars Yard, and Princelet Street.
Read More: Shoreditch Street Art: Top Streets to See
3. Beigel Bake
159 BRICK LANE, E1 6SB
Beigel Bake is one of the most iconic food establishments in East London, and it’s easy to taste why.
You’ll recognise it instantly thanks to its big white and blue sign and long (and fully worth it) queue.
The 24-hour bakery on Brick Lane is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, especially for their infamous Salt Beef Beigel. No wonder they sell almost 7,000 beigels a day! Make sure to get the hot mustard…
P.S. – They also have tons of cheap and delicious pastries here, too if you’re not keen on bagels.
4. The Truman Brewery
91 BRICK LANE, E1 6QR
The Truman Brewery Market is a creative hub home to all things East London art scene.
With markets, independent shopping, restaurants, galleries, and event spaces, it’s a great place to lose a few hours in the neighbourhood.
They also host several markets throughout the month, packed with over 700 small and creative businesses selling everything from the newest fashion, crafts, food, and antiques. Here’s a few to pop into:
➡️ Sunday Upmarket — over 200 stalls of fashion, accessories, crafts, interiors, and music stalls — created by independent designers and makers.
➡️ The Vintage Market — for lovers of retro fashion with pieces sourced from around the world.
➡️ The Boiler House Food Hall — an absolute treat for foodies, especially for international street food.
➡️ Backyard Market — a weekend market selling locally-made art, crafts, clothing, and unique gifts.
➡️ Tea Rooms Market — a quirky market for traditional English tea finds, antique objects, collectables, and all things bric-a-brac.
5. Rough Trade East
OLD TRUMAN BREWERY, 91 BRICK LANE, E1 6QL
Rough Trade East is so much more than just a record store off Brick Lane.
It opened in 2007 and is the largest of all the Rough Trade shops, with over 5,000 square feet dedicated to music (god, I love Brick Lane).
You’ll absolutely love their extensive selection of records from jazz, to hip-hop, and indie rock. The staff is as passionate as well so feel free to ask questions while you’re here!
A great place to relax, browse records, read a book, use their photo booth or grab a sip at their cafe.
P.S. – They also host live gigs, album launches, signing sessions and more!
6. Allen Gardens
55 BUXTON STREET, E1 5EH
Tucked just off Brick Lane and you’ll find the chill Allen Gardens.
This park is a welcoming break from the bustling Brick Lane in the heart of London’s East End, filled with art and relaxing locals.
Although not big, it has a number of amenities, from sports pitches to a playground.
Also, a fantastic spot to enjoy your Brick Lane Beigel…
7. Brick Lane Markets
Brick Lane is most popular for its vintage markets, so of course, you’ll have to partake.
If you’re in Shoreditch over the weekend, make sure to visit one of Brick Lane’s many markets, including:
Brick Lane Market
Spread across different streets every Sunday, this market has a strong emphasis on art, fashion, and food from across the world. Here you’ll find tons of vintage treasures from clothing to antiques and more. One of my favourite things to do in London!
Backyard Market
Open on Saturdays and Sundays, The Backyard Market is an ideal shopping spot for trendy art, crafts, and fashion. Alongside independent and local designers, the market also showcases emerging artists, making it the perfect place to discover original pieces.
Vintage Market
Located within the Old Truman Brewery, the Vintage Market sells a wide range of vintage garments and accessories from the1920s all the way to the 1990s. Have a browse for fits from classic designer to everyday streetwear.
Upmarket
Also happening on Sundays and also in the Old Truman Brewery, there’s over 140 stalls here fit with handcrafted jewellery, homeware, and clothing from independent designers. Not to mention street food!
8. Brick Lane Pubs/Breweries
Besides being known for its vibrant mix of shops and street art, Brick Lane is also host to some amazing pubs, breweries, and bars. Picking the best is tricky, but I’ll try my best.
Brick Lane Tap Room
If you’re a beer lover, this amazing ‘New York’ bar rotates its selection of ales, lagers, and stouts on tap. Best part is that they are all sourced from local and independent breweries, so you’ll be supporting the best of the best in the area.
Kill The Cat
Popular among ‘the beer curious’, this bar offers +150 different beers to drink or takeaway. Feel free to sample some of the best brews in the world here, if you fancy…
Cafe 1001
One of my favourite spots in Brick Lane this cafe transforms into Shoreditch’s coolest bar come night. Think dancing, cocktails, DJs. It’s an East London dream.
9. Brick Lane Bookshop
166 BRICK LANE, E1 6RU
The Brick Lane Bookshop is an independent bookstore that’s been a gem in the neighbourhood’s literature scene for decades.
The bookshop goes beyond selling books — offering a community space for all those with a love for reading and learning.
It started as the ‘Tower Hamlets Arts Project’ in 1977 and continues to serve Brick Lane locals with everything from book clubs to writers’ events, and activities — well worth popping by!
10. Vintage Shopping
Besides the popular markets, Brick Lane is home to several beautiful and cool vintage shops that you won’t want to miss.
Best part is they’re open all week!
Brick Lane Vintage
This vintage clothing store offers designer clothing, accessories, sportswear, Y2K, and more. It has a bit of everything for all ages and styles, so you’ll never run out of options!
Atika London
This gigantic vintage department store has 6,000 square feet, 5 rooms, and 2 floors of +20,000 items from independent artists and designers, both original and reworked. Visit for your share of fashion, lifestyle, homeware, art, books, and magazine bits to sort through.
Serotonin Vintage
Another gem for vintage lovers, especially given its swoon-worthy deals from popular designers. While they have an online store as well, there’s nothing like exploring here in person.
11. Junkyard Golf Club
88 WORSHIP STREET, EC2A 2BE
Junkyard Golf Club is a one-of-a-kind thing to do on Brick Lane with a cheeky twist.
This venue transforms traditional crazy golf into a funky night out, perfect for a Brick Lane night out with friends, family or a date night.
With its funky designs, bright neon lights, and great music, food and cocktails, you’re guaranteed a good time. Time for a visit!
12. Old Spitalfields Market
16 HORNER SQUARE, E1 6EW
And lastly, another incredible market, this time indoors (and slightly off of Brick Lane…sorry!).
The Old Spitalfields Market is one of the finest surviving Victorian Market Halls in London with a hodge-podge of independent boutiques, local artists, and street food vendors. Not to mention live music and events, i.e. not to miss when you’re on Brick Lane!
Thanks for reading my Brick Lane Things to Do Guide. If you enjoyed it, let me know on Instagram!
CHECK OUT MORE LONDON GUIDES:
- 7 Best Brick Lane Brunch & Breakfast Spots: A Local’s Guide
- 7 Best Brick Lane Cafes: A Local’s Guide
- 19 Best Things to do in Shoreditch (+ Maps!)
- Shoreditch Street Art: Top 10 Unique Streets to See (+Map!)
- London Coffee Shop Guides
- London Brunch & Breakfast Guides
- London Neighbourhood Guides
Happy Londoning,
