Did you know that...
Shoreditch E1 name derives from the Old English word “scoradic”. Earlier spellings include Soredich, Soredic, and Schoresdich. The 16th-century historian John Stow uses the Sewers Ditche variant. Shoreditch High Street is part of the old Roman road Ermine Street.
Shoreditch Church is featured in the nursery rhyme Oranges and Lemons in the line “when I grow rich say the bells of Shoreditch”. The Augustinian Holywell Priory was established in the 12th century and dissolved in 1539.
Shoreditch became the ample home of first two London’s theatres – The Theatre, 1576 (where Shakespeare was employed as actor and playwright) and The Curtain Theatre, 1577 (Shakespeare’s original playhouse).
The place where the Curtain Theatre stood is marked by a commemorative plaque. You can find it on Hewett Street off Curtain Road.
The first English playhouse, The Theater, was built on the site of the former priory. William Shakespeare’s plays were first performed at The Theater. Actress Barbara Windsor, entertainer Hetty King, comedian Noel Fielding, and actor Russel Brand were born in Shoreditch.
The first actor of English theatre, who was considered to be a truly great actor, Richard Burbage was a member of Shakespeare’s company of actors. The grave is located at St Leonard’s Church.
The London College of Fashion, actually the only college in Britain specialized in fashion education, is located in the area. This college is renowned for its famous alumni – Jimmy Choo and William Tempest.
Shoreditch is famous for its grungy vibe. Make sure to pay a visit to the rough triangle made up by Shoreditch High Street, Great Eastern Street and Old Street. You will fall in love with the atmosphere. The streets are packed with independent shops, bars and graffiti.
Talking about graffiti. If you decide to walk up to Shoreditch from Brick Lane, you will be able to see the city’s most creative and impressive murals. Take a few outstanding pictures.
Many see Shoreditch as the cultivator of both street art and street food. A pretty pop-up street food market that comes up every Saturday is also known as the Urban Food Fest. In a bustling atmosphere of the live music, it delivers craft beers, exclusive cocktails, and various gourmet street foods.