Despite being eclipsed in recent years by the bright lights and allure of London’s first Westfield Centre in Shepherds Bush; Uxbridge Road remains one of the most culturally eclectic streets in the Big Smoke. Coloured with vibrant shops, scents and sounds, this street has (in abundance) the hustle and bustle that defines London living. Home to the institutional yet understated Shepherds Bush Market, where visitors can purchase anything and everything from rare herbs and spices to pets and vintage wedding dresses. The market vendors sell the freshest fruit and vegetable produce catering to the diverse ethnic demographic in the area and the countless food stalls tempt passers-by with unusual smells to challenge their taste buds. For the adventurous food lover, Uxbridge Road is ideal. Scattered with Asian, African and Caribbean cuisines to name but a few, the only problem potential visitors will face is deciding upon where to go. Caribbean restaurant and take away, Ochi’s at 226, is a favourite with locals and celebrities alike, Rihanna has often said that this modest spot is her first stop in the UK when she is craving some authentic Caribbean cooking. This venue is always packed with loyal customers with autographed pictures of famous faces adorning the walls; undoubtedly because of the cheerful staff who always engage in friendly banter with
diners old and new, which is one of the restaurants’ charms. Aside from the appetising eateries, Uxbridge Road has its pulse on West London’s arts and music scene. The delightful Bush Hall at 310 hosts several events, music performances and theatrical shows throughout the year. Originally a dance hall in the early 20th Century, Bush Hall retains its lavish, chandelier laden interior, however, it now hosts the likes of Adele, R.E.M and The Killers on an intimate stage. Across the road at number 7 is the old Victorian library, now reaping successes as The Bush Theatre, exhibiting provocatively entertaining performances from up and coming and established playwrights brings people past its doors. In addition the theatre has its’ own playwright development scheme to which they receive over 1,500 scripts per year and pride themselves in responding to every applicant, to support new and international writers. The playhouse offers a pre and post set theatre menu changing to adapt to the theme of every new performance. Fully equipped as a café/restaurant during the day and a bar into the late hours, this venue offers a nice quirky spot if one wants to escape the hub of activity outside. Uxbridge Road offers an abundance of waterholes for the thirsty visitor; The Princess Victoria, built almost 200 years ago, was Shepherd’s Bush’s first
tram stop and following several years of decline, this gin palace has been restored to its former glory. Now offering fine food and wine, a cigar shop and a decadent venue for events, this gastro pub deserves its high praise and several awards. One would not struggle lazing away the summer days here in its Victorian themed beer garden. Although not technically on Uxbridge Road, The Defectors Weld is definitely close enough for a mention. Walking off of Uxbridge towards Shepherds Bush Green, The Defectors is one of the trendiest spots for late night dancing and drinking in the area. Featuring an extensive liquor menu, with buy one, get another for £1 cocktail deals every day from 5-7 pm (5-11 on Sundays) and DJ sets into the late hours from Thursday –Sunday, clientele of all ages dance the night away under the ambient lighting. Uxbridge road and the surrounding streets offer endless amounts of activities for those willing to overlook its rough and ready appearance. Easily reachable by public transport, the nearest tube stops are Shepherds Bush Market (Hammersmith and City Line) or White City (Central Line) and bus routes 207,427 and 607 run frequently along this road.