Shoreditch has long been painted as the home to London’s artsy, bohemian crowd, and it remains one of the most creative and exciting neighborhoods in the British capital. Industrial buildings transformed into boutique hotels and restaurants keep the design simple, and the laidback, modest vibe excludes no one – not even families with young children – making it easy to blend in and enjoy the cityscape.
How can we be so sure? This urban, family farm just off of Brick Lane, where children are invited to pick vegetables from the garden, feed chickens and climb around treehouses. Further proof comes in the form of a calf frozen in time (and formalin) in a glass tank, à la Damien Hirst, at Tramshed, where you can shamelessly enjoy the most delicious cuts of beef and chicken, and all children under 10 eat free…
In terms of lodging, small families with a passion for contemporary design can easily find it here. For parents wishing to spend an evening without the kids, try Boundary, where you can enjoy dinner and a cocktail with the crème de la crème of Shoreditch.
The atmosphere is a bit less formal, but no less chic, at the Ace Hotel, just a few blocks away from the wonderful Dishoom, Grab brunch and soak up the ambiance of Dishoom’s old-fashioned jardin d’hiver with your little guests.
Under the covered Spitalfield Market – past the stalls of vintage clothing – you’ll find Canteen, where the kitchen is busy day-to-night preparing delicious, gourmet dishes. Stop by for family breakfast and try the porridge with candied fruit, pancakes and eggs Benedict. If you’re just looking to take a snack break at the end of the day, step inside the well-hidden Barber & Parlour – a fantastic concept store that’s not just a cafe, but also a barber shop, salon and cinema!
