Nestled in the heart of Hackney Wick is Shapes, an event space and all round hub for the creative arts. Based in a former printing factory with canal side gardens, the interior is minimalistic but its the vibrancy of the crowd that it attracts that makes this 900-capacity venue so endearing. Hosting regular live music evenings and art exhibitions, this intimate hangout is keen to strengthen its ties with the local community and jumps at the chance to host local artists accordingly.

The venue, which boasts a 2,500 square ft outdoor area right next to the Hackney Wick Canal for those in need of brief respite between songs, attracts an eclectic mix of artists to the point where no two days are the same. Shapes is a quirky hangout tailor-made for those in touch with their creative sites and a love for the arts.