It was recently named one of the best high streets in the UK
Only one area of London was named in a list of the UK’s best high streets. It is known for its vibrant, village-like feel and smattering of independent traders.
Jennifer Pinto of the Express found herself in Stoke Newington on a rare sunny afternoon. As soon as she disembarked from the bus, it felt as though she had stepped into a different world, far removed from the hustle and bustle of London, she said.
Despite being nestled in the heart of Hackney, Stoke Newington Church Street doesn’t resemble your typical London high street. This unique charm is precisely what sets it apart, earning it the affectionate moniker of a “village within the city” among locals and tourists alike.
Recently, American Express Shop Small and GlobalData named it one of the best high streets in the UK. Stoke Newington Church Street was the only London location to grace the top 10, and having experienced its charm firsthand, Jennifer said it was not hard to see why.
The study evaluated the UK’s top high streets for independent shops, taking into account various factors such as the number of independent businesses, diversity of business types, vibrancy of the high street, and the presence of Gen Z and Millennial independent business owners. It also examined how these younger generations are investing in the future success of UK high streets.
Stoke Newington Church Street is a stunning, tranquil, characterful gem brimming with personality. It offers a laid-back, community-centric charm that’s a rarity in the capital, reports.
Jennifer said she struck by “how green and village-like the entire street felt. There’s no Tube station in sight, no overwhelming crowds, no chain stores dominating the landscape.”
She said: “Instead, it was just independent coffee shops, bakeries, a local fishmonger and a butcher, greengrocers like Stoke Newington Green, gift shops, florists, and boutiques, all between two lovely parks, Clissold Park and Abney Park, and overlooked by the beautiful spire of St Mary’s Church which also adds to the village feel of the entire street.
“One of the highlights was Stokey Garden, a gorgeous plant shop that unexpectedly opens up into a hidden garden café and restaurant at the back.
“My friend and I wandered through, only to find a stunning seating area bathed in sunlight, and surrounded by plants. We sat and enjoyed some delicious food and drink, and for a moment, it genuinely felt like we were on a weekend getaway in a village far away, not in zone 2 of London.”
Exploring further, Jennifer said: “My friend and I wandered through, only to find a stunning seating area bathed in sunlight, and surrounded by plants. We sat and enjoyed some delicious food and drink, and for a moment, it genuinely felt like we were on a weekend getaway in a village far away, not in zone 2 of London.
“As we browsed the street, we stumbled into unique boutiques like Know & Love, Hilda, and Prep, all proudly independent, with their own universe and shelves full of one-of-a-kind finds.
“Even one of the local opticians, Eyes of Stokey, stocks independent glasses brands.
“It was refreshing to shop at a relaxed pace, without the usual rush or retail overwhelm that you can find in a fast-paced city like London.
“Spence Bakery must not be missed either and has been a local staple for about 24 years now. The bakery sells a range of delicious baked goods and a group of local residents were stood outside laughing and chatting away after having made their purchases which really added to the local feel and warm atmosphere of the street.”