London area of Dalston guide

What to do and where to stay in London's Dalston neighbourhood

The Guardian has called Dalston "the unlikely owner of Britain's coolest postcode"; this isn't matched - yet - by a bunch of hip hotels, but for "local lunacy" and a cracking night out, this is the place to be. The cool crowd has moved in and the club nights are booming - check out Bardens Boudoir and Dalston Superstore for a taste of the action - but the vibrancy doesn't stop here. Afro-Caribbean and Turkish communities have made their home here over the years, and the exotic flavours of Ridley Road Market reflect this, as do the nearby halal butchers. In the southeastern corner, there's London Fields and Lido and Broadway Market offers a fabulous shopping experience with stalls of the best fresh food, vintage frocks and arty stuff on a Saturday, along a route lined with delightful cafes and boutiques. In the run up to the 2012 Olympics, the area will receive a quick make over but let's hope it doesn't lose its edge.

See our recommended nearby Dalston Hotels, Events, Entertainment, Sights and Attractions, Shopping, Restaurants, Pubs, Nightlife, Leisure, Education, and Meeting Venues.