Welcome to Islington
In Islington, it’s very much a case of north meets east London. A variety of cool hangouts await, from jazz clubs and upmarket cinemas to the hip and picturesque shopping streets of Camden Passage. Once overlooked, improved appearances and infrastructure brought about by the 2012 Olympics have seen this neighbourhood soar in popularity. Excellent transport links, proximity to business hubs and schools see families, couples and young professionals all looking to make a home in Islington.
Did you know?
Notable residents
Islington has been home to the likes of Oliver Cromwell in the 19th Century and, more recently, Douglas Adams and Tony Blair.
Secret tower
Tucked several streets from the New River Walk and Path, Canonbury Tower is a Tudor structure that has survived since the 16th century.
Hidden gem
Culpeper Community Garden is a small, yet tranquil and well-kept communal space worth seeking out.
Angel
Angel is a hub of dining, entertainment, and shopping that sits at the intersection between Islington, King’s Cross, Clerkenwell and East London. Key business districts such as Old Street and Farringdon are easily reached both on foot or public transport, which makes lively Angel an ideal area for young professionals and couples living in Islington.
Home to a variety of period conversion apartments and new build developments close to the canal and along towards Old Street, Angel is a popular destination for young renters. The streets surrounding Islington High Street are brimming with bars, restaurants, and high street shopping - enough to keep its residents busy day and night.
Barnsbury
Known for its Victorian and Georgian terraced houses and quieter, suburban feel, Barnsbury is often described as somewhat of an oasis in Islington. Parks and squares are interspersed throughout this little neighbourhood and complemented by quaint coffee shops and brunch spots.
Residents of Barnsbury make the most of being a short wander from the paths of Regent’s Canal, the many neighbourhood gastropubs and cafés, as well as parks with playgrounds, dog areas and even a tiny nature reserve. An abundance of ‘Good’-rated primary schools ensure there are plenty of options for families moving to the area, whilst secondary schools are within easy reach. The ‘Outstanding’ Richard Cloudesley School provides education and support to children with physical disabilities and sensory needs.
Canonbury
Canal-side walkways and Georgian townhouses that overlook squares and greens draw residents to Canonbury. Nearby schools include Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ Samuel Rhodes School for children from Primary to Sixth Form years.
Wide, tree-lined streets and a quieter way of life tend to attract older professionals and family households, although a good mix of property types in the area also see younger sharers moving in. The southern parts of Canonbury particularly reel in those young professionals and couples looking to stay close to cool Upper Street. Well served by Underground, Overground and National Rail services, whilst of course being a short walk from everything that wider Islington has to offer, the neighbourhood is known for media, law and literary types.
Highbury & Islington
A short walk from Islington into its counterpart of Highbury places you in leafier surroundings, with parks and outdoor facilities catering to family activities and extracurricular interests. Sought-after Highbury Place overlooks the green space of Highbury Fields and sits close to excellent schooling options.
At the very heart of the Borough of Islington are the Highbury and Islington neighbourhoods, where you’ll easily slip from one into the other and yet suddenly feel worlds away. Both neighbourhoods are rich in community spirit, with all kinds of independent businesses peppering the streets. In Upper Street, quirky bars and arts venues draw the crowds, whilst Highbury retains a village feel from the Victorian era. A good choice of ‘Good’ and ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted-rated schools in Highbury attract families looking to put down roots.
The best of Islington: things to do
As far as places to eat in the area go, it’s rumoured that there are more eateries in the Borough of Islington than there are days in the year. From delis and bakeries to gastropubs and modern restaurants, there are plenty of cuisines and new ventures to choose from.
SUNDAY café
SUNDAY is a legendary brunch institution for residents of Barnsbury, wider north London and beyond. The thick stacks of pancakes and home-baked treats on the coffee counter alone make joining the regular queues out the door worth it.
Frederick’s
Family sits at the heart of Frederick’s, having been founded and run by the same family for over 50 years. Originally a pub, the building has grown over the years, with a spacious conservatory and modern private dining areas. A simple, yet well-curated menu focuses on contemporary, European dishes made with quality produce.
De Beauvoir Deli
Mouthwatering homemade treats and artisanal groceries adorn the counters and shelves at De Beauvoir Deli. Simple interiors featuring stripped-back wood and classic tiles create that quaint country kitchen feel, but you can expect to find carefully sourced produce and café dishes taking inspiration from around the world.
Be it a quick drink with friends, a cosy night in the pub or cocktails and dancing, Islington has everyone covered. A great choice of all-day venues and coffee bars double as innovative evening hangouts for non-drinkers.
Laki Kane
Located on Islington’s bustling Upper Street, Laki Kane creates a tropical escape with exciting experiences such as cocktail masterclasses and exotic bottomless brunches. Taking inspiration from Thai, Polynesian and Hawaiian beaches, Laki Kane is a tantalising assault on the senses.
The De Beauvoir Arms
Well-loved by locals, The De Beauvoir is said to be a favourite amongst many of Islington’s notable residents and ticks the box for a quintessential, cosy London pub. Regularly changing chalk board menus feature top-notch options for a meal, whilst warm leather armchairs and a log fire will catch you willing the winter months on.
Homeboy Bar
A slice of vintage speakeasy glamour collides with Irish cocktails and traditional food at Homeboy Bar – plus hip hop and RnB beats. Frequently listed amongst the best cocktail bars in the world, it strikes a balance between laid-back drinks and a more elevated night on the town.
Open artist spaces, canal scenery and quirky shopping streets mean there’s plenty to see on strolls around Islington’s neighbourhoods. Weekends and evenings are filled with arts and live events in inspirational spaces.
Almeida Theatre
This small theatre began life as a literary and scientific society and has long continued its mission to share the world with Islington. Bringing together new works or reimagined classics, the Almeida Theatre regularly hosts sold-out productions, talks and events.
Screen on the Green
The neon exterior of this single-screen cinema wouldn’t look out of place on the streets of New York – and yet, here it sits in the heart of Islington. A full bar and menu of pizzas, hot dogs, sharers and even build-your-own sundaes can be whisked straight to the comfort of your seat.
Regent’s Canal
The 8.6 miles of the Regent’s Canal transports you to an oasis that feels miles away from the city. Walkers, dog walkers, cyclists, joggers, boaters and paddle boarders can all be found along the tranquil waterways that exist in parallel with scenic walkways, gardens and waterside eateries.
The area’s proximity to large green spaces like Highbury Fields and long stretches of Regent’s Canal, make finding free things to do in Islington no problem. Walkers, joggers, cyclists, and outdoor activists are spoilt for choice.
Exmouth Market
A perfect lunchtime hub for nearby office workers, Exmouth Market is a charming collection of independent shops, restaurants, and cafés. Its semi-pedestrianised layout instils that delightful feeling of wandering or dining along a European street.
The Union Chapel
At once a concert and live events venue, Christian church and meeting place for various groups and projects, the Union Chapel is a diverse and inspiring place to meet that welcomes everyone.
Charlie Allen bespoke tailoring
World-renowned designer and tailor Charlie Allen’s studio sits in the heart of Islington. Providing bespoke tailoring services and made to measure suits and shirts, you’ll be astounded by the pleasure and confidence that bespoke garments can bring.
Property in Islington
It’s not hard to see why Islington is so popular with buyers and renters alike. Imposing period homes sit alongside modern new build developments and warehouse conversions, in a range of neighbourhoods that appeal to all sorts. Corporate professionals, singles and couples are all drawn to Islington and it’s popular with people from all over the world too, with expats from all four corners of the globe choosing to make the neighbourhood home.
Marsh & Parsons in the Islington community
We don’t just sell and let property in London; we’re Londoners too. Engaging with our local communities is at the heart of Marsh & Parsons’ ethos and we have supported local organisations, schools, charities, businesses and community groups over the years.
Islington Giving
Soon after opening our Islington office we launched a partnership with Islington Giving, an independent group of local businesses, residents, voluntary organisations and funders, who work together to combat social inequality in the Islington borough. Their aim is to recognise poverty and inequality issues and harness the correct resources to address them.
Find out moreSupporting local businesses
We spoke to One Shot Coffee to find out what they love about Camden and Islington’s world-renowned tailor, Charlie Allen, tells us why he chose North London as the home for Charlie Allen Bespoke Tailoring.
Find out more