Centred on Kingsland Road, this area is home to a plethora of hip cocktail bars, vintage fashion stores and LGBTQ+ clubs, with nights from some of the best uin underground promoters. Whether you're in the mood for dancing 'til the AM or watching some live cabaret, there's no shortage of activities here. Need a hand deciding? Check out our guide to fun things to do in Dalston.
Looking for fun things to do in Dalston? Pamela is the place to be. This hidden gem on Kingsland Road offers an intimate space where you can sip on imaginative cocktails and enjoy the cool, laid-back atmosphere.
Whether you're indulging in a Plum and Pecan-infused Brandy or testing your taste buds with the spicy Des Barres - a blend of Jalapeno-infused Vodka and Kiwi juice - Pamela's menu promises a unique experience.
In the former home of legendary London landmark, Cooke's Pie & Mash Shop, The Black Eel is a great place for a date, a post work drink or a fun-fuelled night of games. There's plenty of ways to play, from darts and shuffleboard to karaoke, fussball and pétanque.
Over at the bar, there's mighty fine selection of craft beers, guest ales, ciders, spirits and classic cocktails. The food menu is just as feisty, serving up Mediterranean small plates, fish buns, burgers, ribs and more.
Head over to Hackney Road to discover The Arcanist's Tavern - an immersive tabletop gaming cafe that's always got something fun going on. Not only have they got a library of over 300 board games to choose from, but there are also custom tables for TTRPGs and Wargaming.
Tuck into tasty eats, specialty coffee and RPG-themed cocktails while you're here. Plus, you can attend fun events like quiz nights and gaming meetups on a regular basis.
Open on Saturdays and Sundays to treat you to the most chaotic drag around, Dalston Superstore is dubbed East London's mothership of drag. With pop-up performances each day from 12 to 5pm, featuring the filthiest, funniest drag queens and kings - ranging from the likes of Sharon Le Grand to Yshee Black, A Man to Pet and more - they've got your next boozy brunch sorted.
Our pick when it comes to Dalston clubs, The Mix knows how to throw some of the best late-night shindigs. Whether you're heading out to dance with friends or picking up those brushes at its London Paint Party events, you won't get bored at this Kingsland Road spot.
@ KERB Spitalfields on Saturday 1st August 2026 and 22 other Saturdays
Always fancied yourself as something of a chandler? See if you've got what it takes at a Bendy Candle Making Workshop in StayCity Dalston. Spend your morning twisting, shaping and dipping hot wax until you've perfected this not-as-easy-as-it-looks craft.
For just £41.80, you can choose your perfect colourway, decorate the finished product and leave grinning ear to ear with not one, not two, but five bendy candles for the mantelpiece.
Touting laidback vibes and budget-friendly sips, it's no wonder why The Three Compasses is our find for cheap bars in Dalston. Be sure to sink a few cocktails or ice-cold pints, all while joining in on its Thursday quiz night. Feeling peckish? You're going to want to check out the burger menu.
Step into the delightful world of 58 and CO, an award-winning distillery hidden in Dalston underneath the Haggerston overground railway arches. Perfect for botanical buffs, this spot offers a range of engaging activities.
Snag your tickets to the gin school for just £125 per person, where you'll learn to distil your own unique bottle to cherish at home. Plus, enjoy exclusive tasting events that marry amazing drinks with gourmet cheeses, and explore vermouth in their hands-on masterclasses.
Known as one of London's most beloved live music venues, The Shacklewell Arms is always packed with a hipster-ish crowd ready to jam to banging tunes. From Austin TV to The None, this Dalston haunt hosts all kinds of music acts throughout the week; plus, the DJ nights on weekends are always pumping.
