It was only a matter of time before Clapton – surrounded by Dalston, Hackney and Stoke Newington – would become a destination in its own right. A young creative crowd has moved in and with them a surprising number of trailblazing restaurants, top-notch drinking establishments and independent shops. Home to plenty of green space and the River Lea canal that snakes alongside, Clapton has retained a pleasing off-the-beaten-track vibe about it for those in the know. In fact, with its relaxed atmosphere and mix of old and new businesses, we’d go so far as to say this might just be one of East London’s most exciting corners.