Shoreditch has, since around 1996, become a popular and fashionable part of London. Often conflated with neighbouring Hoxton, the area has been subject to considerable gentrification in the past twenty years, with accompanying rises in property prices.

The Crowne Plaza Hotel, ShoreditchA former citadel of the working classes, Shoreditch and Hoxton have been colonised by the creative industries and those who work in them. Former industrial buildings have been converted to offices and flats, while Curtain Road and Old Street are notable for their clubs and pubs which offer a variety of venues to rival those of the West End. Art galleries, bars, restaurants, media businesses and the building of the Hackney Community College campus are further features of this transformation.

This funky corner of London has been made a hit by arty types, musicians and designers. So many bars and clubs have sprung up over the last decade that you'll need to make a couple of trips if you want to sample them all.

Be sure to find out what's happening at Herbal, 333, Cargo, East Village, the T Bar (which has free entrance) and On The Rocks for some late night fun.

If you want to venture a bit further afield, Charlie Wright's on Pitfield Street has been a laid-back night spot for those in the know for years. If you're lucky you might even see Charlie pulling a few pints himself.

For a pre-club meeting place there are just too many too mention. Try the Dragon Bar by Old Street or The Elbow Room if you fancy a spot of pool.

The lovely Hoxton Square makes for a great starting point. Try Zigfrid or cocktail bar Bluu. On Kingsland Road Catch and Dream Bags Jaguar Shoes make for two of the coolest watering holes. If you fancy a more laid-back pub atmosphere The Reliance and the Bricklayers Arms are two firm favourites.

If you love your cocktails head to the Drunken Monkey for a Monkey Mojito or two or for a special occasion Loungelover serves the ultimate cocktails in opulent surroundings. Make sure you bring your credit card though as you'll never want to leave.

Hoxton has a thriving arts community and vibrant culture, with an abundance of galleries, public art spaces, bars, clubs and restaurants. Many abandoned warehouses have been converted into artists studios and the East End of London has the highest concentration of artists in Europe.