Hoxton Area Guide
Hoxton, the creative hub of the big smoke is the place to head to if you fancy immersing yourself in a hotpot of culture, exploring new watering holes and trying some tantalising cuisines. Hoxton is an eclectic mix of exciting things to do and is considered the haunt of many a hipster.
Our area guide to Hoxton will introduce you to student life living at the urbanest student accommodation in Hoxton. It’ll tell you everything you need to know about living in the area and help you make the most out of living in our Hoxton accommodation.
Where is Hoxton, London?
Hoxton is a neighbourhood in the London Borough of Hackney, just north of the City of London’s financial district. Hoxton is surrounded on the north by the Regents Canal. On the west side, you’ll find Wharf Road and City Road. On the south side is Old Street, and finally, the east side is bordered by Kingsland Road.
What is Hoxton known for?
The renowned Britannia Theatre, which Dickens compared to Milan’s La Scala, was in Hoxton. Built-in 1858, it quickly became one of Victorian London’s most grand entertainment palaces. Today Hoxton is known for its quirky vibe and exciting nightlife, restaurants, and cafes. For students, it’s a cool place to live that’s bursting with character and charm.
Hoxton transportation links
- Hoxton train – Hoxton train station is on the East London line. It can be found in the London Borough of Hackney, Greater London and is on the Kingsland Viaduct. Served by the London Overground, you’ll find the station on Geffrye Street which is close by to Dunloe and Cremer Street.
- Hoxton tube – Old Street Tube Station is on the Northern Line and is just a short walk away. This will connect you to many of London’s hotspots and tourist attractions if you’re new to the city and want to explore.
- Hoxton bus service – there are 32 bus stops in Hoxton so you can travel around London easily. There’s even a bus stop outside our Hoxton accommodation.
- Hoxton taxis – On Old Street, you’ll find Liberty Cars if you need a taxi.
- Hoxton parking – If your friends and family come to visit for a day, there is the NCP car park on Paul Street, close by to Old Street tube station.
Hoxton healthcare
If you’re a student new to the city, healthcare may be one of your top concerns. Using the NHS services linked below, you can find a GP, dentist, pharmacy, and optician that’s close to you living in Hoxton. Just enter the urbanest Hoxton postcode which is N1 6AA and you’ll be provided with a list of healthcare services close by.
International students, the NHS is the UK’s National Healthcare Service. You should register with a doctor as soon as you arrive in London and if you’re not sure how to do so, your university will be able to provide help and support.
Hoxton supermarkets
If you’re moving to Hoxton, you’ll be happy to know Hoxton has many local supermarkets for you to do your food shopping. There is a Tesco Express, The Co-operative Food, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s Local, Waitrose and As Nature Intended all close by. For detailed information make sure to read our guide on the nearest supermarkets to urbanest Hoxton.
Places to visit in Hoxton
If you’re going to be based near Hoxton then you might want to make your way over to Shoreditch, where there’s always something interesting happening.
Columbia Road Flower Market
Every Sunday Columbia Road is transformed into a veritable jungle of leaves, blooms, and fronds. No matter the weather or the season, this street becomes the place to head if you fancy immersing yourself in a bit of natural beauty.
Many of the florists here have grown their own flowers and plants, but you’re bound to find some greenery from warmer corners of the world as well. For more information about the shops nearby see here.
Location: Columbia Road, London, E2 7RG
Boxpark
Boxpark is a great place to head to if you fancy a regular day of shopping and eating with a bit of a cool twist. The central focus of the area is the rows of shops and eateries constructed from old freight containers stacked on top of one another. Wind your way through both levels to discover fantastic food from places such as Cook Daily and Dum Dums Donutterie. You should also make sure to make the most of the terraces when the weather is good.
Location: Boxpark, 2-10 Bethnal Green Rd, Hackney, London E1 6GY
Victoria Miro
An ex-Victorian furniture factory, this gallery was first opened by Victoria Miro in Mayfair in 1985. It was moved in 2000 to Hoxton instead and this newer space spans over two floors and has a beautifully landscaped garden, which is a rarity in London. A perfectly calming space in which to spend your day, head to the Victoria Miro gallery if you’re in the need of some introspection.
2-10 Bethnal Green Rd, London E1 6GY
Get out and about in Hoxton
One of the best things to do in Hoxton is simply to explore your local area. There are a wealth of hidden jewels waiting for you to uncover them. From famous foody treats to urban art, there’s something here for everyone.
The Brick Lane Beigel
We couldn’t create a guide to Hoxton without mentioning both Beigel Bake and Beigel Shop. These two shops contend for the title of best salt beef bagel in London. You’ll have to try them both to see which you think is the winner! Both are open 24/7, they’re the perfect places to head to if you’re feeling peckish after a night on the tiles.
Location: 159 Brick Lane, London, E1 6SB
Go art spotting
Shoreditch, just a stone’s throw away from Hoxton, is well-known for its beautiful street art. It changes constantly, meaning an amble around the neighbourhood will turn up new sights each time you head out.
Rivington Street features a piece by none other than Banksy, whilst Great Eastern Street features the heavily photographed wall emblazoned with ‘Let’s Adore and Endure Each Other’. On Shoreditch High Street keep an eye out for the sculptured faces created by Gregos Art and head to Brick Lane for art just as vibrant as the community there.
Theatres & entertainment venues near Hoxton
If you fancy making a night of it, then head to one of these fab locations. They’re perfect for a night of partying or a touch of culture and are all must-do activities in our guide to Hoxton.
XOYO
One of the capital’s most respected clubs, XOYO delivers an unrivalled soundtrack to the weekend for the partygoers that descend there. The club consists of two floors and has a quarterly residency plan that sees some of the world’s best DJs make the club their own for three months at a time.
As well as the most talented DJs, the club also hosts live music. Be aware however that it’s only open to those 21 and above on Friday and Saturday nights.
Location: 32-37 Cowper St, London, EC2A 4AP
Sadler’s Wells Theatre
A world-leading institute dedicated to the medium of dance, Sadler’s Wells Theatre has over three centuries of theatrical heritage. There’s a wide and varied programme of activities and shows all year long. You can catch a show of anything from ballet to flamenco displayed by travelling troupes worldwide.
Location: Rosebery Avenue, Clerkenwell, London, EC1R 4TN
image via Sadler’s Wells Theatre
Shoreditch Town Hall
An independent arts and events venue, Shoreditch Town Hall is a Grade II Listed Building. It was originally the civic centre for the local area before becoming an arts space in 2004. The building features a wide range of special architectural touches and is a beautiful home to an array of cultural activities. Used for film production, dance and theatre performances, corporate events, exhibitions, and private events the venue has a rich programme for all to enjoy.
Location: 380 Old Street, London, EC1V 9LT
We hope you’ve found this guide to Hoxton handy for getting to grips with the area. From partying to flower shopping, there’s something to do for everyone in East London. Related: The Best Things to Do in Hoxton Within a Mile of Urbanest