Victoria Park Village, Hackney hosts Christmas Fayre this Saturday

It's everyone's favourite set of shops, an idyllic and ever growing collection of boutiques which are increasingly giving locals even less reason to leave the area. Flanked by Victoria Park on either side, Lauriston road, E9 has evolved into an essential destination for those desperately seeking an alternative to the entrapment of a supermarket state of mind.

In the spirit small villages and Christmas, the local shops are holding a traditional Christmas Fayre on Saturday 11 December from 12:00-5:00pm.

Promises have been made of 'lots of festive cheer, mince pies, local stalls, mulled wine and Christmas trees (sustainably sourced of course)'.

Sounds like a good enough reason to head down.

More info on their website - http://www.victoriaparkvillage.com/newsboard.html

Coffee Shots - Railroad Cafe, Morning Lane, Homerton

Another new (2 months old still new?) and welcome addition to the many cafe's which have opened their doors out east this year.

Situated a few twists away from the grind of Mare St and the heart of Hackney, Railroad has infused a Nigerian wine bar and barber shop resulting in a pretty slick blend.

Their website says more than I can about it, but i'll leave you with one tip - go for the coffee, stay for the tart.



As you can see they don't charge islington prices and Matt is more than proficient and whipping up that soy macchiato you've always been after.





Baking is all done in house. Oven fresh..



Pear and Almond tart



Great reading list too.