Gentry Guides: Shoreditch, East London
The very first Murdock barbershop and grooming store opened in on Old Street back in 2006 the area of London infamous for being the birthplace of many fads and fashions; what better location to launch a new cutting edge male grooming enterprise?
From Shakespeare’s early shows to the death of a royal mistress, the east London area of Shoreditch has a historic tradition of eccentricity, vice and the artistic performance. Despite considerable gentrification over the past twenty years, Shoreditch (and the neighbouring Hoxton) are still home to many creative industries, unique retail spaces and exciting venues.
Here’s a quick look at some of Shoreditch’s places of interest:
Located on the ground floor of the Boundary building, the Albion is one of three eateries on the site, so definitely a place of interest for the peckish gent. With a menu serving up hearty British café fare such as English breakfast, pies and fish and chips, diners at the Albion can enjoy traditional comfort foods in hip, modern surroundings. The perfect place for an informal business lunch or a personal rendezvous.
Whether you have a dirty weekend away planned or you’re looking to treat the other half (and yourself), you'll find what you're looking for at the aptly named Bordello. This East End boutique stocks raunchy lingerie by Der Kommissar, saucy honeymoon attire, exotic corsets, luxury toiletries and vintage boudoir-style furniture. Well worth a visit, particularly with Valentine’s Day creeping up.
Present store owners Eddie Prendergast and Steve Davies are founders of men's mega-brand Duffer of St George, but don't hold that against them. Present's bright white, clinical interior houses labels from streetwear Billionaire Boys Club and Japanese Haversack to the smarter Raf by Raf Simons and the limited edition haute couture items. A great range of high quality menswear with something for every guy, the perfect destination after a trip to Murdock.
A private members club, Shoreditch House bo
asts a rooftop swimming pool, a gym, sauna and steam room facilities, a games room, numerous spaces for socialising and indulging and a clientele of the most interesting people in East London. Members and guests only, but not ridiculously exclusive so start hoping that you get an invite to a private party or meeting.
Not forgetting, of course, Murdock's Shoreditch store, located at 340 Old Street.
Related Features:
- Gentry Guides: Mayfair, London
- Turnbull & Asser Go East
- Top 5 London Bars
- Gentry Art: Michael Molloy
- Fash-ism Comes to London
