Dalston: cultural landscape
Recently branded 'the coolest place in Britain', Dalston is emerging as an unrivalled centre for some of the capital's most exciting arts, culture and creative industries.
Thanks to the innovative work of local organisations to name just a few, the creativity here is without parallel in London -
Dalston's reputation for culture is also due to the extraordinary art installations, pop-up-shops, festivals and the many galleries that tend to flourish in the area, making Dalston one of the most exciting places to live, work and study.
Dalston is also an international hub. Ridley Road Market has long been celebrated for its fashion, crafts and foods from around the world, whilst the many Turkish, Vietnamese, Caribbean and east and west African shops, cafes and bars reflect the diversity of Dalston's local communities.
Now that the Dalston Junction station and the Highbury & Islington link has opened up the area to the four corners of London and to the tube network, the area is set to become a cultural destination for even more people, with five million passengers predicted to use the station annually by next year.
Dalston is an important business destination for the creative industries. Its many studios and workspaces are home to scores of architects, artists, designers, photographers, and media professionals.
Public spaces in Dalston are also important cultural assets, including Gillett Square, Dalston Eastern Curve Garden and, as from October 2012, Dalston Square.
To find out about the regeneration of Dalston see Town Centres.
Page updated: 31 Aug 2011
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