How to spend a perfect day in Lower Clapton, according to a local

Having surged in popularity over the last five to eight years, Lower Clapton can hardly still be considered an ‘up-and-coming’ London neighbourhood, as it was once pitted. A short stroll through the eclectic streets lined with independent stores – all a stone’s throw from numerous green spaces and a charming canal network – demonstrates why this has quietly become one of London’s most sought-after addresses. I first fell in love with the place in 2018 and will be remiss at the thought of leaving the one spot in London that truly feels like home. This is my guide for how to spend a perfect Saturday in Lower Clapton.

8.30am: Start the day with a morning coffee from Fika on Chatsworth Road

Fika (pronounced “feeka”) means to slow down and appreciate the good things in life. Perched on the corner of Chatsworth Road, this minty green local cafe is the perfect start to any slow Saturday in the city. On a sunny day, sit and enjoy your coffee on one of the street side tables and ease your way into the weekend. The coffee is delicious, and the pastries are even better.

Address: 36 Chatsworth Rd, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LP
Website: fikahackney.com

9.45am: Get the blood pumping with a BLOK Move class at BLOK Clapton

Take a walk to BLOK Clapton and prepare to shake off your slow start with a blood-pumping bodyweight class. I love BLOK for its fresh and clean interiors and unrivalled trainers. I’m usually the best at talking myself out of an exercise session, but I find the variety and quality of BLOK enough to keep even me entertained and coming back for more.

Address: The Tram Depot, 38-40 Upper Clapton Rd, London E5 8BQ
Website: bloklondon.com

11.30am: Browse for a new book at Pages of Hackney

If, like me, you’ve always got a book squirrelled away in your tote bag, then Pages of Hackney is a must-visit when you’re in the area. This is a small, independent bookshop on Lower Clapton Road, and they always have exciting new reads lined up. The staff here are so friendly and welcoming, and they are great at giving you a steer to discover your new favourite novel. They pride themselves on their inclusivity and accessibility, creating a safe space for their customers and striving to champion marginalised voices through the works they showcase.

Address: 70 Lower Clapton Rd, Lower Clapton, London E5 0RN
Website: pagesofhackney.co.uk

1pm: Grab lunch at Dorée

With a new book in tow, stroll back to Chatsworth Road and pop into local cafe Dorée for a bite to eat. Dorée is a bit of a Lower Clapton institution; originally a department store dating back over half a century, the building took on a new lease of life as a cafe for 12 years. They make lovely coffee and bread here; however, my favourite thing on the menu is their daily pop-up falafel stand. You can choose from a falafel and halloumi wrap or a salad box that's practically groaning with delicious bits. Plus, everything's cooked and assembled fresh in front of you.

Address: 17 Chatsworth Rd, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LP

2.30pm: Walk off your lunch through Millfields Park and along the canal

Full to the gills on your delicious lunch, a gentle stroll through the picturesque Millfields Park is definitely in store. This little park doesn’t get as busy as the likes of nearby London Fields or Victoria Park, so it's a great choice if you’re looking for somewhere a little more peaceful to enjoy nature at the weekend. The park leads directly onto the canal, which you can follow to the sprawling Hackney Marshes. I find walking along the canal is always a treat, especially taking in all the different canal boats and admiring their varying shapes, sizes and colours as they bob along. A short detour from the towpath leads directly to Hackney Marshes, where I might stop off and settle down with my new book for an hour or so on a warm summer’s day amongst the long grass.

5pm: Time for a canal-side drink at Barge East

As the day has bled into late afternoon/evening, what better way to enjoy the last of the sun than with a canal-side drink? One of my favourite spots is further along the canal at Barge East. The barge itself is a floating restaurant with a delicious sustainable menu, however, it also has a large garden area skirting the water which is ideal for a weekend sundowner with friends. The vibe is so fun and lively down here it’s a great place to start your Saturday night listening to the thrumming music and people-watching.

Address: River Lee, Sweetwater Mooring, White Post Ln, London E9 5EN
Website: bargeeast.com

7pm: Head for dinner at Leo’s

Once the sun has lost its warmth, head back to Lower Clapton for an elevated Italian dinner at Leo’s. In true Clapton fashion, I’d suggest hopping on a lime bike and zipping back up the canal to save yourself some walking time. Leo’s is a lovely neighbourhood restaurant that’s an unfussy cafe by day, and intimate dining address by night. The kitchen prides itself on its Sardinian heritage, serving up fresh Italian dishes grounded in seasonal produce. Whether for a date night or a cosy dinner with friends, Leo’s is just such a gorgeous setting to enjoy good food with loved ones.

Address: 59 Chatsworth Rd, Lower Clapton, London E5 0LH
Website: instagram.com/leos.london

10pm: Catch some live music at Paper Dress Vintage

You might be surprised by this choice of venue for a nighttime boogie, but hidden away upstairs in this unassuming vintage clothing store is a really cool live music venue. It’s a no-frills space perfect for a steamy dance of a weekend. Make sure to check their website for the full roster of events as they’re varied – there’s truly something for everyone here. The venue stays open until 3am on a Saturday so it's a great option if you’re looking for somewhere to kick back a little later than the local pubs.

Address: 352a Mare St, London E8 1HR
Website: paperdressvintage.co.uk