1 room flat of 237 m² in London

There's plenty of heart in Hackney, where high art and edgy innovation meet. There are flavours to savour from its lip-smacking restaurants, not to mention world-class coffees (Square Mile coffee beans, anyone?). Quirky, scruffy, sleek or hip – the area's bars and pubs suit whatever taste you're packing, as do its diversions (you're seriously spoiled for things to do). And if money's still burning a hole, Hackney's shops and markets sell temptation by the truckload, from vintage fabrics and designer must-haves to rare meats and artisanal bread.Eating: There's an exceptional range of places to eat in Hackney, from the famous Vietnamese and Turkish restaurants on Mare Street, to newcomers such as Lardo, which serves pizza and Italian dishes. Broadway Market is also lined with popular restaurants and bars, and its busy Saturday stalls sell organic produce and offer all the latest street food trends.Drinking: A host of local pubs in Hackney have been revamped, from the Windsor Castle to the Kenton, there's no shortage of places to go for a pint of real ale or a roast dinner. Local residents would tell you that the best place to go for a traditional roast is the Prince Arthur pub. Bar Oslo attracts a Saturday night crowd and hosts gigs upstairs.Culture and arts: The Hackney Empire is the grand dame of theatre here, mounting some world class shows, and the area supports a number of fringe venues including The Yard, the Hackney Shed and the Arcola. The Hackney Picturehouse shows an excellently curated selection of films. Vyner Street has been described as the most significant gallery row in London, and its First Thursdays attract a hip, young crowd. London College of Fashion is just around the corner.Heritage: Hackney’s Historical Buildings Trust holds open days at the Grade I listed St Augustine’s Tower, which allow you to climb the tower and even ring the bell. The National Trust managed Sutton House is open to visitors and holds a range of tours, events, family days and exhibitions. Overground: It is only 20 minutes from Hackney Central to Oxford Street via the Victoria Line at Highbury and Islington, 17 minutes to Shoreditch and 27 minutes to Canary Wharf. There are also stations at Homerton, Hackney Wick, Dalston Kingsland and Dalston Junction.Train: Hackney Downs is on the East Anglia Line, and this route will get you to Liverpool Street in eight minutes.Bike: More people cycle to work here than any other place in the Capital, pleasant cycle routes via the canal and parks get you where you need to go in no time.Bus: Left over from the days when trains were scarce, Hackney is well served by bus. The 55, 38, 30, 242 and 48 all go towards the City and central London.Getting away: City Airport is 35 minutes away via the Overground, while Stansted is 35 minutes away in the car.