Brick Lane

London's own "Curry Mile", Brick Lane is home to so much more than first-rate spiced food, it also plays host to Jewish bagel shops, Indian sari silks and artists' studios - Gilbert and George and Tracey Emin are famously proud residents of the neighbouring streets. Walking down Brick Lane of an evening can feel a bit like running the gauntlet with touts trying to lure you into their curry houses but it's all part of the fun. The vibrant mix of communities and activities lends an off-beat vibe that attracts young Londoners who gravitate towards bars and clubs like 93 Feet East and the The Old Truman Brewery, to the coffee shops, fashion outlets and graduate art shows. Several outdoor festivals celebrating the diverse culture of the area take place every year as the weather warms up. Brick Lane Market is the best time to stroll down the road for a snapshot of pure East End London with second-hand furniture, unusual clothes and bits of this-and-that seemingly from the back of someone's wardrobe.