Boxpark, Shoreditch

A street market, retail and community hub in Shoreditch

The original Boxpark in Shoreditch is about to gain a cousin, way out in Croydon. It’s a project that seems to have done wonders for the area around Shoreditch High Street, as the world’s first pop up mall. With a combination of eclectic stores offering home wares, clothes and accessories, alongside thumping beer gardens and bubble tea, the Box Park is quintessentially east-end.

Based on the concept of reusing shipping containers for easy, quick and trendy construction efforts, the Boxpark is a clever combination of shopping, events, food and drink. It’s a communal hub that contains all the ingredients for the perfect afternoon out with your friends. It means that the space is flexible, every changing and vibrant. Perfect for the creative core of Shoreditch, where so many of London’s most artistic types hang out.

Though summer has waned a little, I spent a few Sunday afternoons basking in the outdoor vibe of Box Park. The open seating upstairs offers up good beer, good music and a happy atmosphere.

Even in the winter though, there’s plenty to see here. There are always new events on at Boxpark, including showcase opportunities for buskers and the regular “BoxedIn” event, which contains an evening of spoken word, open mic and acoustic entertainment.

It’s a street food market, a retail mall and a community centre. Before the new Boxpark emerges, why not visit the original in Shoreditch?

Christina Care Calgaro

TripTide User