Welcome to Hackney Wick
Once a marshy landscape, Hackney Wick became an industrial powerhouse in the 19th century, home to chemical plants, paint factories, and even the world’s first synthetic plastic, ‘Parkesine’. It also played a quirky role in food history—Dr. Kellogg’s made Britain’s first dry breakfast cereal here. But by the mid-20th century, factory closures left the area in decline.
Our local guide: Hackney Wick
That all changed in the 1990s when artists moved in, transforming old warehouses into studios and galleries—a creative energy that still thrives today, with over 250 artist studios and 100+ independent businesses. The 2012 Olympics brought further regeneration, adding Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and modern developments while keeping Hackney Wick’s unique character intact.
Now, the area buzzes with street art, canalside hangouts, and an unbeatable mix of food, music, and culture. Hackney Bridge is a lively hub of street food, pop-ups, and creative spaces. Slice Club dishes out NY-style pizza, while Melodrome’s vinyl bar is perfect for music lovers. CRATE Brewery, set right by the canal, serves up craft beers and stone-baked pizzas, and Lord Napier Star—Hackney Wick’s only traditional pub—stands out with its graffiti-covered exterior and buzzing atmosphere.
Hackney Wick
’s
Places + Wonders
For a different view of the neighbourhood, Moo Canoes offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals from their floating venue, The Milk Float. Whether on land or water, Hackney Wick keeps its creative spirit alive.
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Built for the 2012 Olympics, this 560-acre park blends world-class sports venues with leisure and green spaces. Home to West Ham F.C. it also features the London Blossom Garden, serene waterways, and nature trails—offering a vibrant mix of history, recreation, and community spirit.
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Slice Club
Arriving during the pandemic, this spot has been serving up delicious, oversized slices of New York-style pizza ever since. It offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying its crisp, chewy offerings at your own pace.
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Hackney Bridge
Situated on the park’s edge near Hackney Wick, this lively hub brings together culture, cuisine, and community. With workspaces, events, markets, restaurants, and bars, it’s a dynamic space where local businesses and creatives come together to thrive.
Visit Website
Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Built for the 2012 Olympics, this 560-acre park blends world-class sports venues with leisure and green spaces. Home to West Ham F.C. it also features the London Blossom Garden, serene waterways, and nature trails—offering a vibrant mix of history, recreation, and community spirit.
Visit Website
CRATE Brewery
Housed in a former print factory, with recycled decor and its own micro-brewery, you’ll find craft beers, stone-baked pizzas, riverside seating, live music, markets, and weekend DJs. Grab a table at the water's edge with a fresh pint and a slice and watch the world go by.
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Lord Napier Star
From squat rave hotspot to art-covered landmark, the Lord Napier Star is Hackney Wick’s only pub and a true institution. Famous for its Instagramable graffiti-covered facade, it’s a go-to for DJs, karaoke, pub quizzes, and a buzzing atmosphere.
Hackney Bridge
Situated on the park’s edge near Hackney Wick, this lively hub brings together culture, cuisine, and community. With workspaces, events, markets, restaurants, and bars, it’s a dynamic space where local businesses and creatives come together to thrive.
Visit Website