Highbury Area Guide
Destination - Highbury
Sitting right next to Angel Islington, Highbury is its quieter, genteel neighbour, dotted with an array of stunning properties that have withstood the test of time, looking as beautiful today as they did when first built. Whether you’re drawn to the grand Victorian semi-detached houses near Highbury Fields or the elegant Georgian homes on Highbury Park, Highbury Terrace, and Highbury Place, there’s something here for every taste.
Find some of the area’s most striking Victorian mansions in and around Highbury New Park, each a testament to the grandeur and craftsmanship of a bygone era. Meanwhile, the Blackstock Triangle offers an intimate charm with its rows of character-filled Victorian terraces that guide you all the way to Finsbury Park, providing a sense of consistency and continuity. For those craving a blend of history and modernity, the iconic old Arsenal football stadium has been cleverly transformed into sleek, contemporary flats, offering unique living spaces with a storied past.
Highbury’s property market caters to diverse preferences, with many period homes thoughtfully converted into stylish flats. Whether buying or renting, you’ll find yourself immersed in a neighbourhood where every corner tells a story, and every home offers a blend of history, character, and modern living.
Our Highbury Branch
2-4 Highbury Park, London, N5 2AB
What's Living in Highbury Like?
What's Living in Highbury Like?
Imagine moving into a community where families, professionals, and creatives come together to form a close-knit, welcoming neighbourhood. The area is rich, balancing urban energy with a surprising quantity of peacefulness. From cosy cafes to trendy restaurants, Highbury’s culinary scene caters to all tastes, while its local arts and cultural venues provide endless entertainment.
Despite being just a stone’s throw from central London, Highbury maintains an almost village-like atmosphere, thanks to its abundance of parks and green spaces. Whether you’re up for a leisurely stroll through Highbury Fields, catching up with friends at a local pub, or simply soaking in the area’s unique blend of old and new, Highbury is a place that effortlessly combines work, leisure, and community spirit.
It’s a neighbourhood where life feels connected and refreshingly relaxed, making it an extraordinary place to call home.
Highbury's Thriving Streets
Highbury's Thriving Streets
Highbury’s rich history is woven into the fabric of its streets, where many of the grand Victorian houses were constructed during the housing boom of the 19th century. Once a landscape of green fields and pastures, Highbury quickly developed a reputation for its elegant villas and terraced homes, which are now some of London’s most sought-after properties.
Although the area endured significant bombing during the Second World War, its original charm and character have been meticulously preserved. Nowadays, Highbury continues to thrive, with its vibrant arts and culture scene flourishing over the past century. The presence of Arsenal Football Club has further cemented Highbury’s status as a premier neighbourhood in North London, blending history and a strong sense of community in every corner.
5 Fun Facts about Highbury
1. Historically significant in football
Arsenal’s storied history in Highbury dates back to its iconic stadium, where the team played until 2006 before moving to the state-of-the-art Emirates Stadium nearby. The original Highbury stadium remains a cherished symbol of the club’s rich legacy.
2. Highbury’s cinematic heritage
Highbury was once the base of the Rank Organisation, a powerhouse in British cinema and one of the UK’s leading film studios. This means the area is forever tied to British cinematic history.
3. Highbury on the Silver Screen
Additionally, Highbury has made its mark in cinema. The area features in films like “Four Weddings and a Funeral” and “Fever Pitch,” the latter celebrating Arsenal fandom. These iconic films showcase the neighbourhood’s unique charm and further add to its cinematic significance.
4. The home of Mr. Bean
At this point, Highbury could be called London’s Hollywood. Rowan Atkinson’s beloved character, Mr Bean, lived in Flat 2, 12 Arbour Road, Highbury, in both the TV show and films, adding a quirky charm to the neighbourhood’s cinematic legacy.
5. The name is over 750 years old
Highbury’s name dates back to 1271, when a manor house was built on a hilltop, giving the area its historic moniker. This name reflects the area’s deep roots and longstanding significance in London’s history.
Public Transport
Public Transport
Getting around Highbury is a breeze, thanks to its excellent transport connections. The area is well-served by multiple tube stations, including Arsenal on the Piccadilly Line, Finsbury Park on the Victoria Line, and Highbury & Islington, which also offers Overground services. Finsbury Park provides access to the Great Northern Line and National Rail services for longer journeys, making King’s Cross a short trip away.
Highbury is also a hub for bus routes, with Finsbury Park bus station offering numerous options. The 19 takes you straight into the West End, while the 43 connects London Bridge to Upper Holloway. Cyclists will appreciate the Finsbury Park to Highbury Fields Cycleway, a recent addition set to extend to Pentonville Road. Whether by tube, bus, bike, or cab, commuting around Highbury and beyond is convenient and super straightforward.
Cabs and taxis are easy to find in Highbury. App-based services are always present in the area, and Uber, Yellow Cars, and Islington Car Service are also available.
Lush Greeneries in Highbury
Lush Greeneries in Highbury
Highbury residents are spoiled for choice when it comes to green spaces. Highbury Fields is a local favourite, offering a peaceful retreat for picnics, jogging, or simply unwinding. Just a short walk away, Finsbury Park provides an expansive space ideal for outdoor concerts, festivals, and strolls during summer. With its charming lakes and historical features, Clissold Park adds another layer of charm to the area.
For those looking to explore even further, Victoria Park in nearby Hackney offers 213 acres of lush green space, perfect for weekend adventures. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet afternoon in the park or a lively outdoor event, Highbury’s green spaces provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation and recreation.
Things to do in Highbury
Things to do in Highbury
Like its neighbours Camden and Islington, Highbury offers many leisure activities that cater to all tastes. Food lovers will be delighted by the abundance of dining options—whether savouring authentic Italian cuisine at Trullo, a laid-back vibe at Frank’s Canteen, or indulging in the unique flavours at Fink’s Salt & Sweet. For something different, Addis on Caledonian Road serves up must-try Ethiopian dishes.
When it’s time for drinks, The Lamb provides a cosy Irish atmosphere, while the Highbury Library offers a modern twist with great cocktails and vinyl records spinning in the background. For entertainment, catch the latest blockbusters at the Odeon on Holloway Road or explore indie films at Everyman Screen on the Green. Theatre enthusiasts can enjoy performances at the Little Angel Theatre, The King’s Head, The Almeida, and the Park Theatre, ensuring there’s always something happening in Highbury.
The schools of Highbury
The schools of Highbury
For families in Highbury, access to excellent education is a key advantage. The area is home to several schools that have received top ratings from the governing body, Ofsted.
At the primary level, schools such as St John’s Highbury Vale CofE Primary School, Gillespie Primary School, Ambler Primary School and Children’s Centre all boast ‘Outstanding’ ratings. When it comes to secondary education, Highbury Fields School, Samuel Rhodes MLD School, and the City of London Academy Islington also stand out with ‘Outstanding’ designations.
For older students aged 16 to 18, Highbury continues to offer high-quality options, with The Camden School for Girls, Highbury Fields School, and Samuel Rhodes MLD School all providing exceptional education. Whether at the primary or secondary level, Highbury’s schools are committed to providing some of the best educational opportunities in North London, ensuring that families have access to top-notch education.
Local Amenities in Highbury
Local Amenities in Highbury
Highbury offers convenient amenities that cater to both body and mind. For fitness enthusiasts, Energie Fitness provides a contract-free environment with various classes, including Pilates, spin, and yoga. If you’re looking for even more options, PureGym is another contract-free choice, boasting over 220 pieces of equipment and more than 50 classes.
For those who enjoy a good read or need a quiet place to study, the Central Library at the corner of Holloway Road and Fieldway Crescent remains a vital part of the community, offering a wide range of resources. Food lovers shouldn’t miss La Fromagerie at Highbury Barn, one of London’s most renowned cheese shops, where you can indulge in some of the city’s finest selections.
Whether staying active, expanding your mind, or indulging in culinary delights, Highbury’s local amenities have something for everyone.
Highbury’s Best Property Agent
Highbury’s Best Property Agent
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, let, or rent a house in Highbury or the surrounding areas, our dedicated Highbury team is here to help. Since opening our Highbury office in 2006, we’ve expanded our reach to cover a wide area, including Stoke Newington, Stroud Green, Finsbury Park, Holloway, and Crouch End. Our professional team combines extensive local knowledge with a personalised approach, ensuring every client receives tailored advice and support.
With years of experience in Highbury and its neighbouring areas, we’re equipped to provide a bespoke property service that meets the unique needs of both buyers and sellers. Whether browsing for your next home or looking to sell, you can trust our team to guide you every step of the way. Explore our available houses in Highbury for sale today and discover the difference our local expertise can make.