Spitalfields, in the heart of the east end, is close to some of London’s biggest attractions. Famous for its community spirit and rich history Spitalfields is the ideal London destination for those who want to stay in a place with real character. Here is Part 2 of Clarendon UK’s location review.
One of the major selling points of any district is its eating and drinking fare. A cultural melting pot like Spitalfields is sure to have a wide range of eateries to keep even the most demanding visitor sated. The world-famous Brick Lane should be the first port of call. In the heart of Spitalfields Bangladeshi-Sylheti community it is no surprise that Brick Lane is famous for its curry houses. As well as the spicy curries and Jewish bagels Brick Lane also has a collection of funky bars.
Funky Asia is one of Spitalfields more unusual eateries. A trendy bar with an industrial feel, steel cladding, coloured lighting and scattered chesterfields its pan-Asian menu has proved popular. La Chapelle offers some Michelin star grub while Poppies Fish and Chips has been serving up a portion of London culture wrapped in newspaper since 1945.
For visitors looking for some liquid sustenance Spitalfield is home to plenty of bars. The Hawksmoor has a cocktail list that is divided into “gloom lifters”, “eye openers” and “corpse revivers”. It also hosts beer from London breweries; Meantime in Greenwich and Kernal in Bermondsey.
The Ten Bells might look like just another trendy pub but it’s a place of London history; the pub changed its name to @Jack the Ripper’ as the serial killer’s victims had drank there.
One of the best ways to get to know Spitalfields as a new visitor is on foot. The Spitalfields Treasure Hunt takes up to two hours and explores the hidden gem of this corner of the capital. Hidden passages, historical hideaways, a buried chapel and an old brewery; the trail promises to open the door to another side of London.
As such an historical destination, Spitalfields is a good place to find a guide. A walking tour takes visitors into both the historical past and the multicultural contemporary scene. Another walking tour that covers much of the same ground is the Jack the Ripper tour, which tells the story of the gory serial killer of the 19th century.
Spitalfields is well served by excellent transport links. London City airport is only 25 minutes away. Liverpool Street Station is the terminus for the Stansted express to Stansted airport. There is also a commuter service to Essex, east London and Hertfordshire. Underground at Liverpool Street there is easy access around the capital on the central, Circle, Metropolitan, Hammersmith and City lines. Other nearby tube stations includes Bank which covers the Circle, District, Northern, Waterloo and City lines.
Clarendon serviced apartment’s offers an array of serviced accommodation in Spitalfields. Brushfield Street is a Grade II listed building with one and two bedroom apartments. Steward Street offers one bedroom apartments just five minutes from Liverpool Street Station. The one bedroom apartments at Artillery Lane are ideal for short term lets. Each of Clarendon’s serviced apartments is finished to a high quality, including a fully fitted kitchen and open plan living space.