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Looking for things to do in Stoke Newington?
If you’re looking for the best things to do in Stoke Newington, this guide is for you. I used to live in Stokey (partly during lockdown) and having all that unexpected time to wander meant I got to know the area inside out. Between daily walks through Clissold Park, takeaway coffees from cafés on Church Street, and afternoons exploring the little backstreets, I fell in love with the neighbourhood’s village feel and independent spirit.
This post covers my pick of the 10 best things to do in Stoke Newington. Whether you’re a Londoner looking for somewhere new to wander or visiting the city for the first time, here’s everything you need to see, eat, and do in one of London’s most characterful corners.
Best Things to Do in Stoke Newington
From beautiful parks to brunch, come afternoon drinks, there’s plenty to love about this corner of North London. Here are my top picks of the best things to do in Stoke Newington, full of local gems that capture the area’s charm.
1. Explore Stoke Newington Church Street
If there’s one place that sums up Stoke Newington’s charm, it’s Church Street. This lively stretch is packed with independent shops, cafés, and restaurants, and it’s where most of the neighbourhood’s day-to-day life happens. You could easily spend a whole Saturday here, starting with brunch at The Good Egg or Flowers N16, browsing beautiful homeware at Search & Rescue, and picking up something new to read at Stoke Newington Bookshop.
Church Street has that rare mix of community feel and creativity. It’s stylish but still relaxed, with plenty of places to chat over a coffee or glass of wine. Whether you’re window shopping, catching up with friends, or just people-watching from a café window, exploring Church Street is definitely one of the best things to do in Stoke Newington and the perfect way to get a feel for local life.
2. Wander Around Clissold Park
Clissold Park is one of the loveliest green spaces in North London, and easily one of the best places to spend a sunny day in Stoke Newington. I even spent my 25th and 30th birthdays here, spread out on the grass with friends, snacks, and a bottle (or two) of wine. Since Fink’s – one of the area’s best bakeries – took over the café inside Clissold House, you’re never far from great coffee or a pastry either.
It’s also a brilliant park for families. There’s a large playground, a paddling area in summer, and even a small collection of animals (goats, deer, and birds) that kids love. With leafy paths, tennis courts, and open lawns, Clissold Park really is the heart of Stoke Newington life.
3. Visit Stoke Newington High Street & Farmers Market
Stoke Newington High Street has plenty going on too. Alongside great pubs and restaurants, you’ll find Stoke Newington Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Saturday with organic produce, local bread, and freshly cooked street food. It’s a perfect stop before wandering further down towards Dalston.
I also love Harvest, the independent wholefoods shop that’s been serving the community for years (and always smells amazing when you walk in). You’ll also find a great board games café called Loading Bar, perfect for a rainy afternoon with friends.
4. Shop Independent in Stokey
You won’t find many big chains in Stoke Newington. Instead, the streets are lined with small, beautiful shops, from curated homeware to vintage clothes and books. It’s the sort of place you’ll pop out for a card and come home with half your Christmas shopping done. I can never resist the homeware shops and dream of buying furniture from one of the many mid-century stores.
Search and Rescue
A Church Street favourite, Search & Rescue is packed with beautifully curated homeware, ceramics, and gifts from small makers. It’s the perfect place to find thoughtful presents or a little treat for yourself.
Church Street Bookshop
A true local gem, Church Street Bookshop has been part of the neighbourhood for decades. Small but wonderfully curated, it’s hard not to leave with something new to read. I always stop here, even when I’m in a rush.
5. Eat Your Way Through Stoke Newington
Stokey has some of the best food in North London, with a mix of relaxed brunch cafés, cosy restaurants, and new spots that locals get very excited about. Whether you’re after a quick coffee and pastry or a long dinner with friends, there’s no shortage of great places to eat.
The Good Egg
A long-time Church Street favourite, The Good Egg serves up Middle Eastern-inspired brunches and baked goods that are always worth the queue. Their babka and shakshuka are delicious.
Sonora Taqueria
I first tried Sonora Taqueria in Netil Market, Hackney and it has since found a permanent home in Stoke Newington. Expect incredible tacos, homemade salsas, and a lively, welcoming energy that makes you want to stay for seconds.
6. Grab a Drink at a Local Pub or Bar
Whether you’re after a quiet pint or a craft beer session with friends, Stoke Newington has no shortage of great pubs and bars. From old-school locals to modern taprooms, there’s a spot for every kind of evening. The Jolly Butchers, The Three Crowns and The Axe are my favourite spots for a relaxed drink with friends. The Jolly Butchers and Three Crowns also do a great Sunday Roast!
7. Stroll the Back Streets and Pretty Terraces
Some of my favourite moments in Stoke Newington were spent exploring the residential streets, where stunning terraces and ivy-covered townhouses feel picture-perfect. Away from the bustle of Church Street, you’ll find Albion Road and Clissold Crescent, lined with elegant Victorian homes and wisteria-draped doorways. It’s a part of London where walking around feels like an activity in itself.
8. Explore Abney Park Cemetery
Abney Park Cemetery is one of those places that makes you forget you’re still in London. During lockdown, it was often my walk of choice whenever I needed to be in nature, craving peaceful quiet that felt a world away from the city.
Originally one of London’s “Magnificent Seven” cemeteries, Abney Park is now a nature reserve and community space, loved by locals for its calm and beauty. It’s perfect for a reflective stroll, a moment of solitude, or simply escaping the noise for a while. Even after years of living nearby, I still find it one of the most peaceful corners of Stoke Newington.
9. Walk the New River Path
One of my absolute favourite walks in North London, the New River Path runs right through Stoke Newington and around the peaceful East and West Reservoirs. I used to come here often when I lived nearby, especially on quiet mornings or sunny afternoons when you can spot people paddleboarding on the water.
10. Visit the Castle Climbing Centre or Stoke Newington Sauna
Housed inside a beautiful old Victorian pumping station, the Castle Climbing Centre is one of the most unique climbing gyms in London. Whether you’re a beginner or more experienced, the routes are brilliant, and there’s even a lovely little café inside for a post-climb coffee. It’s the best thing to do in Stoke Newington on a rainy day.
If you fancy something a little more relaxing, the Stoke Newington Sauna is another great rainy-day activity. It’s the perfect place to unwind after a busy week. A couple of hours here and you’ll walk out feeling completely reset.
Round Up: The Best Things to Do in Stoke Newington
Stoke Newington definitely still feels like a bit of a secret. Often overlooked by tourists, it’s full of character and community, and you can easily spend a whole day exploring cafés, parks, and independent shops there.
What makes Stokey special is its balance: there’s always something happening, yet it never feels too busy. Whether you’re picnicking in Clissold Park, wandering through Abney Park, or grabbing coffee on Church Street, you get a real glimpse into what everyday London life is like — friendly locals, great food, and green spaces at every turn.
If you’re looking for a neighbourhood that captures the heart of North London living, Stoke Newington is it — a true hidden gem that’s well worth discovering.
