Stoke Newington

Stoke Newington dates back to Saxon times it has a history of dissent and unorthodoxy that it retains to the present. Daniel Defoe, author of Robinson Crusoe, is probably its most famous resident and there is a road named after him now. Having no tube station it is somewhat isolated and enjoys an alternative air, not so much parochial as self consciously independent.

It is popular with young creatives, particularly musicians for some reason, and absorbs much of the overspill from Islington, namely those who can't or won't pay its extortionate prices. Further on in neighbouring Dalston the Vortex jazz club and Rio cinema are both well-established joints.

Like many of the more pleasant parts of London it has a distinctly village feel and has lovely parks. Consequently it manages - to a large extent to avoid the scourge of modern towns – chain stores – and has good pubs and bars, delis and cafes, bookshops, organic and health food shops along trendy Chruch Street.