The best of Bethnal Green: restaurants, bars and shops
The no-frills home of both British boxing and the Kray twins, who ran East London in the 1950s and 60s like the American mobsters from their favourite movies, Bethnal Green has more than earned its rugged reputation. But underneath lies an unshakeable community spirit and grunge attitude, with some of London's best art exhibitions taking place under railway arches and industrial warehouses bringing music lovers together. The past decade has seen eating and drinking places in the area gloss up significantly – some of London's best coffee shops are here and seasonal small-plates are thriving – though you can still find cafés that have fed locals since the turn of the century and pubs that dish out pies and gravy. Set between two leafy urban parks, the London neighbourhood is a small but lovable creative zone with plenty of East End charm.