Neighborhood: Shoreditch

Also Called: East End (part of it), Spitalfields, Hoxton

Pros: 

• Something is always happening; for example, we discovered a free stand-up comedy show inside a barber shop
• Fairly safe to walk around alone because there are so many other people out, at all hours of the day and night
• Lots of interesting graffiti/ street art
• Lots of markets and food trucks, some of which are less expensive than other food in the city
• Things stay open late
• Not very touristy: people live here

Cons: 

• Depending on where in the neighborhood you are, the Underground may be quite far from you; buses and Overground stations may be closer, but the Underground tends to be more useful
• There aren’t many tourist sites in the neighborhood; other neighborhoods are more convenient, if that’s the primary concern
• It’s a bit hipster-y and on the younger side

Should You Stay There?

If you’re in London for a longer visit (5+ days), and if you value living among average London dwellers, I would recommend it. If it’s a short visit, I’d suggest staying closer, so you spend less time in transit.