Charming Old Street can be found in East London. Known for its eclectic mix of tech startups, trendy bars, and cultural landmarks, Old Street offers visitors a dynamic and immersive London experience, with lots of things to do near Old Street.
As you stroll through Old Street, you'll encounter a rich tapestry of experiences. Art enthusiasts can indulge in the area's numerous galleries and pop-up exhibitions, while foodies can relish the diverse quirky cafes, high-end restaurants, and charming little pubs and bars.
The vibrant nightlife, featuring everything from traditional pubs to chic cocktail bars, ensures the excitement continues well into the evening, especially if you’re heading over to the hale and hearty Daffodil Mulligan.
Plenty to do on Old Street
It’s no secret that London is inundated with great activities, and that is certainly the case with all the great things to do in Old Street London. From nearby shopping to exploring London’s lesser known streets, your visit here will be wonderful. Below are some of the things to do near Old Street:
Whitecross Street Market
Whitecross Street Market is one of London's oldest markets, offering a vibrant selection of street food from around the world. It's the perfect place to sample diverse cuisines and enjoy the lively atmosphere during lunchtime, before heading over to Daffodil Mulligan for some further food-induced joy and a delightful pint of Guinness.
Shoreditch Boxpark
A pop-up mall made of repurposed shipping containers, Shoreditch Boxpark features a mix of independent retailers, trendy eateries, and art installations. It's a great spot for unique shopping and discovering local designers, as well as buying something incredibly unique.
Barbican Centre
The Barbican Centre is a cultural hub housing an art gallery, concert hall, theatres, and a library. Known for its Brutalist architecture, the Barbican offers a diverse program of exhibitions, performances, and film screenings, perfect for a day out near Old Street.
Museum of London
Located nearby, the Museum of London provides a comprehensive look at the city's history from prehistoric times to the present day. Interactive exhibits and a vast collection of artefacts make it an engaging experience for all ages.
Old Street Roundabout
Also known as Silicon Roundabout, this area is the epicentre of London's tech scene. While not a traditional tourist attraction, it's fascinating to see the innovative companies and co-working spaces that define this dynamic district.
Street Art Tours
Old Street and the surrounding area, particularly Shoreditch, are renowned for their vibrant street art. Join a guided tour to learn about the artists and stories behind the ever-changing murals and installations.
Geffrye Museum
The Geffrye Museum, now known as the Museum of the Home, explores the history of domestic interiors from the 1600s to the present day. Set in 18th-century almshouses, the museum offers beautifully recreated period rooms and tranquil gardens.
Hoxton Square
A charming green space surrounded by trendy bars, restaurants, and galleries, Hoxton Square is perfect for a relaxing break. The area is also known for its lively nightlife and creative scene.
Rich Mix
Rich Mix is a multi-arts venue that hosts a wide range of events including film screenings, live music, theatre, and exhibitions. It’s a great place to experience the local cultural diversity and creative energy.
Old Street Gallery
This contemporary art gallery showcases works by emerging and established artists. It's an excellent spot to discover new talent and enjoy cutting-edge art in a sleek, modern space.
The British Library
Not far from Old Street, The British Library houses an extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and historical documents. It also hosts exhibitions and events that delve into literature, history, and culture, as well as showing different events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Dinner at Daffodil Mulligan
It wouldn’t be a visit to this neck of the woods without venturing into Daffy’s for one of the most delicious things to do on Old Street: eat, drink and be merry! Daffy’s is known for its exceptional menu of casual yet indulgent dishes, influenced by Irish and modern European cuisine.
Food is sorted
Welcome to Daffodil Mulligan, one of the most delicious things to do near Old Street. If you haven’t been already, Daffy’s is where bold Irish flavours meet inventive culinary artistry, creating an unforgettable dining experience in the heart of Shoreditch, London. Defined by its vibrant and hearty dishes, Daffodil Mulligan brings the essence of Irish hospitality straight to Old Street. Fresh from over the Irish Sea, the restaurant is armed with everything you need for a proper hooley, offering a wild ride of taste and enjoyment.
At Daffodil Mulligan, the menu is a delightful blend of Irish and international influences, showcasing whole cuts of meat, fresh fish, and the season's finest vegetables, all expertly grilled to perfection and curated by Head Chef Stu Hesketh and Chef Patron Richard Corrigan. The a la carte menu at Daffodil Mulligan features dishes that are perfect for sharing around the table. Start your meal with the Jersey Rock Oysters, served either naturally or dressed in a refreshing mix of rhubarb, soy, lime, and coriander. The Famous In-House Ember Baked Bread, paired with aioli, is a must-try, offering a perfect blend of smoky and creamy flavours. For a touch of the ocean, indulge in the Tempura Prawns, served with a zesty and cooling Spiced Watermelon Gazpacho. Another standout starter is the Pot of Cornish Mussels, served with smoked butter and wild garlic, creating a rich and aromatic dish that's hard to resist. These starters are great for ordering a variety and sharing with friends, allowing everyone to sample the diverse and bold flavours that Daffodil Mulligan does so well.
For those who prefer to keep their meals to themselves, Daffodil Mulligan also offers hearty dishes that are simply too good to share. The Forerib Of Beef & Bone Marrow Cheeseburger served with a beef fat brioche bun and chips, is a mouthwatering option that promises a burst of umami in every bite. The Confit Duck Leg, accompanied by a San Marzano tomato panzanella, offers a perfect balance of rich and tangy flavours that go down well with a nice wine. For a unique twist, try the Sugar Pit Pork, served with cabbage, caraway, and smoked apple, and perfectly paired with a nice strong pint of the black stuff. Alternatively, the Tikka Celeriac combines tahini, hummus, pomegranate, and dukkah for a delightful vegetarian option and some fresh flavours.
Each dish at Daffodil Mulligan showcases the skill and flair of the Corrigan Collection. The warm Irish hospitality, combined with the restaurant's casual and relaxed vibe, makes it the best spot on Old Street to bring your mates for a night of fantastic food and great craic. Then, once you’re all done with your grub, head downstairs and enter the buzz of the lively Dickie’s Bar! Dickie’s Bar is a cracking little spot and the cheeky younger brother of Daffy’s. Known for its live sports events, live music and incredible drinks menu, Gibney’s also boasts the best poured pint of Guinness in London. Don’t believe it? Try for yourself.