Your guide to living in Stoke Newington
Stoke Newington (or ‘Stokey’ to the locals) is Dalston’s big sister - a little more mature, but still has an edge. A Saturday night here is for listening to live contemporary jazz and waking up early the next day for a stroll in the park with a freshly baked pastry. The neighbourhood has a lively atmosphere but maintains a ‘village’ feel as the high street is a celebration of independent businesses; from bars and restaurants to boutiques and butchers. If you’re at the stage of life where farmer's markets and handmade homeware spark joy, then you’ve found the right place.
Where is it?
Sandwiched between Finsbury and Lower Clapton, Stoke Newington is the most northern bit of east London. Its quaint feel will make you believe you’ve escaped to the outskirts of the city, but a short bus ride will have you back in the heart of Hackney Central or a nightclub in Dalston in no time.
What's the transport like?
The lack of tube and rail stations in Stoke Newington is actually one of the biggest draws to the area, which is why it was historically one of London’s cheaper areas to live and attracted an arty crowd.. You’ll find yourself encouraged to walk (or cycle!) to most places, but don’t let this deter you from wanting to move to the area. There’s enough bus services for commuting day or night between east and central London.
Stoke Newington and Rectory Road overground stations are easy to access, but the nearest tube station is Finsbury Park. This will take you 32 minutes to reach by foot and can be reached by the Victoria and Piccadilly lines.
Where do the locals go?
Church Street is the oldest named street in Greater London and is the place to be if you find yourself in Stoke Newington. There’s a reason that Stokey is often referred to as a ‘village’. You won't run into a Pret or Nandos on every corner (locals famously fought off a large Sainsbury’s in the past). Instead, you’ll be spoilt for a choice of quirky coffee shops and bakeries.
Parks:
Clissold Park is the main green space in the area, including a tennis court and a small enclosure where you can visit the deers and goats. In summer, dip your toes in the paddling pool and pop to Romeo & Giulietta for an ice cream.
Lose yourself in one of London's seven garden cemeteries at Abney Park. Even if spooky isn't your thing, you'll find it hard not to marvel at the beauty of the overgrown wildlife and gothic architecture.
Events and activities:
Hit London’s only all-organic farmers market outside of St Paul's church on a Saturday for delicious produce from small, sustainable farms almost all from within 60 miles away.
Newington Green is historically where non-conformists, such as novelist Daniel Defoe and feminist icon Mary Wollstonecraft, gathered in the 17th century. Stoke Newington celebrates this by hosting a literary festival every summer. If you’ve heard of Hay-on-Wye, it’s like that - but in Hackney. So expect plenty of talks, discussions and celebrations of all things literature.
The best restaurants:
Finding a go-to brunch spot is a must before you decide to move anywhere, and thankfully The Good Egg has you covered. Get yourself a space in the queue outside on a Saturday morning for a taste of their Jewish and Tel Aviv twists on brunch classics like babka french toast or shakshuka and za’atar sourdough.
Allegedly some of the best pizza in London can be found at Vicoli Di Napoli. People have travelled from all over to try one of their famous pizzas — the margherita or marinara—made just like they are in Naples. If you want a more relaxed vibe, try Blue Legume for a Mediterranean feast. They also encourage laptop users so it doubles up as an option for a new WFH location.
Good news for veggies as Stokey is home to one of the best meat-free restaurants around. Rasa serves vegetarian southern Indian food so good that even meat eaters won’t feel like they're missing out - oh, and everything on the menu is under a tenner too.
Head to Roti Stop outside Stoke Newington Overground Station for grub on the go. Grab yourself an authentic Caribbean curry and roti with a side of their homemade peanut punch from this matchbox-sized takeaway.
The best pubs:
The Rose and Crown is a well-known landmark pub, complete with real ale on tap and a traditional dark wood interior. Ask for a board game and cosy up by the fireplace, or have a good catch up with a friend over a roast. If the British weather allows, make the most of the beer garden at The White Hart. Enjoy the large courtyard with plenty of seating, exposed brick and leafy decor - ideal for a pint in the sunshine!
The Three Crowns is the ideal pub for a pre-gig pint before you head downstairs to its intimate music venue, The Waiting Room. Catch live music here every Friday and Saturday night and get acquainted with some of London's best up-and-coming acts.
The best coffee shops:
You’ll find it hard to miss the bright yellow exterior of The 13th Floor Coffee truck in the church courtyard. This community-led non-profit business helps fund The Tate Gallery, in exchange for serving up some tasty beverages. If you're in need of a sit-down visit The Green Room, which also doubles up as a plant shop. Arrive for cake and a sarnie and walk away with a new potted pal!
The Spence bakery is a Stokey high street staple. Secure a loaf of one of their 5 different types of sourdough with a takeaway cup of coffee before strolling home through Clissold Park. If you're a pastry fanatic, swing by Jolene. They mill their flour onsite to make sweet treats as well as fresh pasta in the evenings. Think poached rhubarb danishes with coffee followed by ragu and local wine by candlelight to take you from 8 am to 8 pm.
Shops:
Stoke Newington is the ideal shopping destination if you have an afternoon free to browse. Wonder into Nook, Know and Love or Another Studio if you’re in the market for a new candle or trinket dish. Or for book lovers, explore the selection at local favourite The Stoke Newington Book Shop.
You're not in Hackney if there isn’t a vintage shop close. Take a walk down Stoke Newington high street towards Dalston and buy yourself a (nearly) new outfit from Reign Vintage, Scoop, or one of the many charity shops along the way. If you love a second-hand steal, then reserve your Sundays for a trip to the car boot sale at Princess May School and rub shoulders with the chic locals and eclectic sellers.
What's it famous for?
Aside from the range of fantastic pubs, Stoke Newington is renowned for its live music scene, including jazz and open mic comedy. It was once home to The Vortex Jazz Club (now located in Dalston), which established itself as a groundbreaking music venue and invited the likes of Kenny Wheeler, John Taylor and Norma Winstone.
Nowadays, Stokey is a popular area amongst celebrities, including Paloma Faith, Rupert Evans, and Nick Grimshaw (who often frequents the local dry cleaners). You may even spot a breakthrough actor or two from the latest trending Netflix show if you find yourself here on a quieter evening.
Want to know the average room rent for Stoke Newington, and other London postcodes? Check out our latest guide here!