Panda Guide: Working in Shoreditch

Jul 26, 2016 4:11:39 PM

Ever wondered what it’s like to work in and around Shoreditch? If you haven’t, that’s all about to change as we’re going to show you what you’re missing.

We want to highlight the wonderful area the pandas reside in by giving you a handy little location guide. Not sure where you can grab a bite to eat? We’ve got you covered. At a loss about how to get around? Worry no more. Grabbing drinks with friends and colleagues? We know the places to be.

For this panda guide, our wonderful guest panda Jessica shares a few insights as an outsider to the area. When someone from outside of London embraces the area, you know you’re onto a winner. Of course, the pandas are going to share a few inside secrets too…

Highlights from Shoreditch

Shoreditch always seems alive; we’re sure if the pavements could talk they would have many stories to tell. Many great businesses choose to set up here because of the vibrancy and how central it is to the start-up culture in London. They don’t call Old Street Roundabout ‘Silicon Roundabout’ for nothing! 

The cranberry panda office is an open plan, collaborative space with an eclectic mix of businesses sharing the wonderful space. Of course, we are the only company in the space with a giant Panda mascot…naturally. When Jessica joined us for her three week internship, what did she have to say about the space? “The open plan office ensures that the environment is collaborative and communal, yet with a focus that courses through the office. This in turn ensures businesses are kept separate, but don’t feel isolated.”

So that’s a little bit about where the pandas work, but there is life outside our office walls and we always want to explore. What are the overall highlights of the wonderful Shoreditch area?

“The atmosphere is without a doubt my favourite aspect of the area as it has such a large impact on your approach and mentality,” Jessica tells us.

“Dolcezza…enough said!” For those who don’t know, Dolcezza is a hidden gem for coffee lovers. Situated on Bonhill Street, this place does fantastic coffee…seriously don’t take our word for it! Even better, it is located directly opposite our office…jealous?

“The social options for after work are brilliant. The transport links are second to none – tube, buses, over ground or national rail – it takes me 15 minutes to get to work!” Yasminspeaks the truth. Working in Shoreditch means there are many ways to commute into the area if you were to work here. Old Street, Moorgate, Liverpool Street and Shoreditch High Street are all stations in the vicinity. If you do need the tube, you’re never too far away from a station. 

Features of Shoreditch

Shoreditch Street Art

Possibly the most charming aspect of the Shoreditch area is that there will always be something new, albeit temporary. That’s not a negative thing because when one goes, another three ‘pop up’.

The street art in the area certainly tells a story; on a quick walkabout, you’ll come across ET, Luke Skywalker, Darth Vadar, The Suicide Squad and even some reindeer. All immortalised onto the bricks of Shoreditch, you’ll love checking out the creativity if you’re a fan of your art.

Do you like to shop ‘til you drop? Let’s face it, we’re all guilty of a cheeky payday purchase. The area offers many options for where you can appease that payday itch…here are our top picks.

Boxpark in Shoreditch

  • Spitalfields Market – There are also a few stores nearby such as Urban Outfitters and Office.
  • Nike Town
  • Bishopsgate Arcade
  • Reiss and Oliver Bonas - Situated right at the Broadgate circle entrance of Liverpool Street station.
  • BoxPark – Right next to Shoreditch High Street Station, there’s an array of things to be found here…from fashion boutiques to a donut lover’s dream.
  • One New Change – If you have a bit of time, you can walk comfortably to St Paul’s Cathedral and find ‘One New Change.’ There are so many shops to choose from and even a rooftop where they hold cinema evenings.

If you’re a sports lover, you too will be spoilt for choice. There is the Lucozade Power league, which is right in front of you as you exit Shoreditch High Street station. It’s a perfect stop if you and your colleagues want to form a lunch time five a side team. There’s Barry’s Bootcamp (more on this later) and Slim Jim’s Health Club too!

Food, glorious food

We all need a big lunch to see us through the afternoon. There is no lack of wonderful, diverse cuisine here in Shoreditch. Here are some top tips of where to grab a bite (or ten) to eat…

“The great thing about the area is that, no matter where you decide to get food from, there are a few places you can take it to eat. This is especially epic when the sun is shining. Finsbury Square is a highlight, or Shoreditch Park which is a short walk from Old Street station!”

My first lunchtime in the area led me to Itsu, a Japanese restaurant. The food is delicious, affordable and perfect for a lunchbreak.”

Coffee in Shoreditch

Broadgate Circle – When there aren’t new pop ups to try, there are lovely coffee shops and dynamic places to eat at any time such as The Botanist.

Karim’s Falafel – A lovely stall situated on Leonard Street – it’s a must see…or should we say must taste?

Finches – Perfect for a lovely pub lunch, located on City Road.

UrbanFoodFest – If you ever find yourself working on a Saturday, this wonderful market can be found on Shoreditch High Street every Saturday.

Ozone Coffee Roasters – Nice coffee and nice brunch makes this one to visit.

Socialising in Shoreditch

When Friday comes along, there’s no doubt you’re ready to enjoy the weekend and start doing fun things. If you work in Shoreditch, there are plenty of places you and your colleagues can visit to kick off the weekend. Here are a few the pandas have visited:

Flight Club – Do you like Darts? If you don’t, that will all change once you pay this place a visit. A mere 2 minute walk from our office, the pandas ventured down for a great few games of interactive darts. Hate adding up scores? The dart board does it for you! Fancy another cold beverage but don’t want to miss your turn? Do not fear, as you have your very own waitress on hand. Overall, great staff and great atmosphere makes this place a must see! 

Swingers LDN – Not what it sounds like, honestly! You might have caught our recap of our visit to Swingers, but thought it was definitely worth a second mention. With two 9 hole crazy courses to choose from, an array of cuisine and 5 bars, definitely book your team in fast before it’s too late.

“Barry’s?” Only our very own Haley would say this…she’s a Barry’s Bootcamp fiend! However, it shouldn’t be ruled out as many people do flock here in the mornings or lunch time to not only get their work out on, but to socialise with like-minded people. A well-deserved protein shake follows a very intense workout, but if this is what you enjoy you would love having it within walking distance from the office. 

Getting around Shoreditch

Getting to Shoreditch

As we mentioned, Shoreditch is a busy place. Jessica had some ideas about how to embrace the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. “My top tip would be about your attitude; from the tube to crossing roads, London life is absolutely hectic and it’s essential to ensure this does not affect your attitude.”

“Walk, walk, walk! You miss out on so much if you take the bus or the tube. Plus, there’s the added bonus of fresh air and that you’re more likely to get places quicker on foot!”Some wise words from Haley there and it’s true what she says; you will really miss out on some hidden gems around the area if you don’t explore enough. It’s very easy to hear about a cool pop-up in the area a few days AFTER it has closed…and there’s nothing more annoying than that!

Haley isn’t the only panda to think walking is the way forward. But, there is also the added option of cycling too! As mentioned before, the transport links overall are great so even getting in and out of the area is a piece of cake. 

Could you work in Shoreditch?

It really is a fantastic area to be a part of so we hope our guide opens your eyes to some aspects you are yet to try. For more wonderful pictures of our office panda, Desiree, exploring the sights, check out our Instagram account. If you love ecommerce recruitment, and like the sound of Shoreditch, you know who to call!

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