Islington Area Guide
Islington’s Charm
Islington, nestled at the heart of inner London, is a captivating blend of urban vibrancy and the comforting charm of a neighbourhood. This unique mix makes it a highly sought-after place to live. The area boasts a diverse range of properties, from contemporary apartments to beautifully preserved Georgian and Victorian homes, attracting a wide range of buyers and renters.
Islington’s rich history saw a boom in property development during the 19th century, transforming it into the vibrant borough it is today. Post-1945 reconstruction brought in contemporary architecture that complemented the historic streetscapes. Today, you’ll find clean, leafy avenues lined with spacious Victorian and Georgian-style properties, many nestled around peaceful garden squares.
New developments are springing up throughout the borough, particularly along City Road and Regent’s Canal. Here, sleek high-rise apartments offer breathtaking panoramic views of the City skyline. Whether you’re looking for historic charm or modern luxury, Islington has something to offer everyone.
Our Islington Branch
314 Upper Street, London, N1 2XQ
Islington Lifestyle
Islington Lifestyle
Islington is a perfect fusion of the hustle and bustle of modern London life, making it a top choice for those looking to buy or rent. Whether you’re a young professional enjoying the lively nightlife and easy access to central London or a family taking advantage of the superb schools and parks, Islington offers everyone a dynamic and balanced life. The area’s cultural richness, evident in its abundance of galleries, cinemas, theatres, and an eclectic mix of cafes and restaurants, ensures there’s always something to do and a strong sense of community.
What truly sets Islington apart is its strong community spirit, something rare in London’s fast pace. Streets like Upper Street and Camden Passage capture the area’s historic charm, while new developments seamlessly integrate with its storied past. Whether you’re looking to embrace Islington’s rich history or be part of its exciting future, Hotblack Desiato is here to help you find the perfect home in this dynamic neighbourhood.
The Vibes of Islington
The Vibes of Islington
Islington is a haven for food enthusiasts, famous for its diverse culinary scene offering a wide range of cuisines. From local pubs to international restaurants, you can embark on a global gastronomic journey without ever leaving Upper Street. The multicultural community adds a unique flair to every dish, making Islington a true foodie’s paradise.
But Islington isn’t just about food – this neighbourhood is a cultural hub, offering everything from art and history to sports and theatre. Whether exploring the Almeida Theatre or enjoying a match at the Emirates Stadium, Islington truly has it all.
5 Interesting Facts about Islington
1. Celebrities favour Islington
Islington has been home to many notable residents, from George Orwell and Sir Walter Raleigh to modern stars like Emma Watson, Keira Knightley, and Lily Allen. Even political figures such as Tony Blair and Boris Johnson have called this vibrant neighbourhood home.
2. Monopoly fun fact
The Angel location appears on the board because the game’s licensees often met for tea at Lyon’s Corner House. This little piece of history adds a charming touch to the game!
3. Longest escalator in Islington
Have you ever noticed that Angel Underground Station has the longest escalator in the London Underground network? Well, it does, stretching an impressive 200 feet.
4. Islington is full of restaurants
At the last count, there were more than enough restaurants to be able to visit a different one every day of the year.
5. Historical first
Islington was the first London borough to enjoy fresh water coming in from Hertfordshire – the old aqueduct is now the New River Walk pathway, which also offers a scenic stroll through history.
Public Transport in Islington
Public Transport in Islington
Getting around from Islington is a breeze, with a plethora of public transport options at your fingertips. Whether you’re commuting across London or exploring the local area, you’re well-connected. Hop on the Northern Line at Angel, the Victoria Line at Highbury & Islington, or the Piccadilly Line at Caledonian Road for easy access to the city and beyond. Overground services from Highbury & Islington, Canonbury, and Caledonian Road & Barnsbury stations offer even more routes, ensuring you’re always just a few stops away from your destination.
For those who prefer to stay above ground, Islington buses run frequently through Angel, with the 38 heading to Piccadilly, the 4 to Blackfriars, and the 73 to Oxford Circus. If you’re in a hurry, catching an Uber, Kapten, or Bolt is easy, with local firms like Angel City Cars and Islington Car Service also ready to get you where you need to go.
Prefer two wheels? Islington’s newly built cycleways make it easy to explore the area by bike safely. Check out the complete guide to cycling routes in Islington and see what’s new. For more details on getting around Islington, don’t miss our Commuters Guide.
Resident’s Favourite Green Spaces
Resident’s Favourite Green Spaces
Islington might be buzzing with energy, but it’s also a haven for green spaces where you can catch your breath and relax. Whether you’re looking to escape the hustle or just enjoy a stroll, Islington’s got you covered.
Highbury Fields steals the show with its sprawling 29 acres – perfect for exploring or working at the pool and gym. For a more relaxed vibe, walk along the calming waters of the New River Walk or find peace at Islington Green. Caledonian Park and Barnard Park provide a laid-back escape from the city’s pace, while Elthorne Park is where the action is, with football and basketball courts ready for your game. And don’t miss Spa Fields, just a stone’s throw from Exmouth Market, offering a perfect spot to unwind.
These green gems are integral to the lifestyle we want you to embrace in Islington. Because in a place as active as Islington, sometimes you just need a little space to breathe.
Things to do
Things to do
Start your day at the Screen on the Green, an iconic cinema where you can catch arthouse and indie favourites in a vintage setting. Just down the road, the Vue cinema in Angel Central shopping centre offers all the latest blockbusters for a more mainstream movie experience. If theatre is more your style, the Almeida Theatre and Sadler’s Wells are must-visits, offering world-class plays and dance performances that will leave you inspired. Sports fans will be thrilled that Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium is just around the corner, perfect for catching a game or soaking up the atmosphere. For live music, head to The Garage, where you can catch some of the best up-and-coming acts. Nightlife in Islington is vibrant, with popular spots like The Exmouth Arms and Nambucca offering everything from craft beers to live DJ sets.
Don’t miss a stroll through Chapel Market, a bustling street market filled with local traders selling everything from fresh produce to unique fashion finds. And when it’s time to eat, Angel’s diverse food scene won’t disappoint. Whether it’s a meal at Ottolenghi, a drink at The Bar With No Name, or a cosy dinner at The Drapers Arms, you’re in for a treat. For those who love the outdoors, the Regent’s Canal Towpath offers a picturesque route for cyclists, city hikers, and joggers alike, stretching from the Docklands in the East all the way to Little Venice in the West, passing through Kings Cross, Camden Town, and Primrose Hill.
Islington is a playground for those who crave culture, cuisine, and a bit of adventure – all wrapped up in the charm of one of London’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
Islington Schools
Islington Schools
Islington is a prime spot for families, not just because of its vibrant community but also thanks to its exceptional schools. With a reputation for top-notch education, Islington has numerous schools that have earned ‘Outstanding’ ratings from Ofsted. For the little ones, schools like Hugh Myddelton Primary, Shoreditch Park Primary, and Christopher Hatton Primary set a strong foundation.
As your kids grow, they can transition to highly regarded secondary schools such as Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School, Highbury Fields School, and The Camden School for Girls, each known for their dedication to academic excellence. And for those tackling A-levels, institutions like the City of London Academy Islington and Stormont House School continue the tradition of high-quality education. In Islington, you’re not just finding a home – you’re securing a bright future for your children.
Local Amenities in Islington
Local Amenities in Islington
Local amenities in Islington offer only the best for residents, whether you’re a shopaholic, a foodie, or a fitness enthusiast. Visit Angel Central Shopping Centre, where popular brands meet the unique charm of Upper Street’s independent boutiques. For a slice of local flavour, head to Chapel Market, where you can browse an eclectic mix of stalls and shops, or take a stroll down Holloway Road for a blend of high-street favourites and quirky independent stores.
Staying fit in Islington is a breeze, with top-notch facilities like Virgin Active, Nuffield Health, and The Gym in Angel offering everything you need for a solid workout.
Feeling adventurous? Try something different at The MMA Clinic, or push your limits at Orangetheory Fitness. In Islington, everything you need is just around the corner, making it the perfect place to call home.
Islington Property Experts
Islington Property Experts
If you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent a property in Islington or the surrounding areas, you came to the right place. Our Islington estate agent team has been the go-to local property experts since 1979, with an office comfortably situated on Upper Street. We’ve been here long enough to know every nook, cranny and pothole. We feel the vibes from trendy Shoreditch to the historic sentiment of Clerkenwell to the energetic pulse of Hoxton and Kings Cross.
Whether you’re after a modern loft in Dalston or a cosy flat near London Fields, our team’s extensive local knowledge is at your service. We offer a bespoke property search tailored to your needs, helping you find that perfect spot to call home.
Ready to start your property journey in Islington? Contact our team today and experience a service as knowledgeable and dynamic as the area itself. View our available properties here.