Looking for the best areas to move to in Islington? This comprehensive guide explores top neighbourhoods, covering community vibes, schools, housing options, and local amenities. Whether you’re a family, young professional, or retiree, discover the ideal spot for your new home in Islington. From the vibrant streets of Angel to the serene charm of Barnsbury, find out what makes each area unique and why Islington could be your perfect new home.
Key Takeaways
- Islington offers a blend of historical charm and modern living, with notable areas like Highbury & Islington, Angel, Barnsbury, and Canonbury, each providing unique amenities and atmospheres suitable for various lifestyles.
- Housing in Islington ranges from period homes to modern apartments, with average property prices around £849,423. The vibrant rental market, particularly in Highbury, attracts young professionals and families due to excellent commute options.
- Islington boasts diverse cultural and recreational activities, including theatres, cinemas, independent shops, vibrant dining scenes, lush parks, and fitness centres, making it a lively and enriching place to live.
Discovering Islington
Nestled in the North London Borough of Islington, this charming area is a blend of history and modernity, making it one of the most sought-after North London neighbourhoods. Its densely populated multicultural districts include:
- Finsbury Park
- Highbury
- Canonbury
- Archway
- Tufnell Park
Foster a lively and varied community in the city centre. The area is packed with attractions, from bars and cinemas to theatres and a variety of retail offerings, making it a lively place to live.
Upper Street, a notable feature of Islington, stands out for its superb transport links, including the northern line, and closeness to central London, which simplifies commuting. This bustling street is lined with a plethora of shops, restaurants, and bars, offering endless entertainment options. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Islington has numerous parks and playgrounds, as well as unique spots like craft beer scenes, outdoor yoga sessions, and all-night eateries. Additionally, its proximity to the East London line provides even more opportunities for exploration.
Islington’s appeal extends to both buyers and renters, thanks to its great commute, period homes, trendy coffee shops, and bistros. Residing in Islington can pose a challenge due to the steep housing costs, a major concern for many locals. This can make it difficult for many people to find affordable accommodation in the area. Despite this, the demand for flats remains high, particularly among young professionals and students. With its blend of historical charm and modern living, Islington truly offers a unique slice of London life.
Highbury & Islington
Highbury & Islington is a family-friendly area known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and strong community spirit. The neighbourhood is highly regarded for its excellent schools, making it a popular choice for families. Property enthusiasts will be delighted by the elegant Georgian terraces and stunning Victorian houses that add to the charm of this area.
Blending historical architecture with contemporary conveniences, Highbury & Islington has become a desirable locality in North London.
Parks and Green Spaces
Highbury Fields, a significant 26-acre green space, is a central feature of this neighbourhood. It offers various recreational opportunities, including:
- Outdoor fitness equipment
- Running paths
- Tennis courts
- A football pitch
Whether you’re looking to jog, have a picnic, or enjoy a game of tennis, Highbury Fields provides an ideal setting for outdoor activities.
In addition to Highbury Fields, Laycock Green and Paradise Park offer more green spaces for residents to enjoy. Paradise Park, in particular, is notable for its adventure playground, making it a favourite spot for families. These green spaces contribute to the overall appeal of Highbury & Islington, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Independent Shops and Cafes
Upper Street, located near the famous West End, is well-known for its vibrant atmosphere and array of independent businesses, making it a great spot for both locals and visitors. Among the popular spots are inviting cafes and eclectic pubs, such as Alwyne Castle and The Hen & Chickens Theatre Bar, which also hosts arts events. This area offers a delightful mix of places to relax and socialise.
The eclectic mix of boutique shops on Upper Street provides a unique shopping experience. From antique shops to small boutiques, there’s something for everyone. The presence of these independent shops and cafes adds to the charm of Highbury & Islington, making it a vibrant and lively neighbourhood.
Angel
Regarded as a trendy and lively district within the London Borough of Islington, Angel is situated close to Hackney and Finsbury. It is particularly popular among young city professionals due to its proximity to business districts and vibrant local culture. Its location offers easy access to central London, making it ideal for those working in the city.
Famed for its vibrant nightlife and varied dining offerings, Angel attracts a crowd of young professionals, many of whom are associated with the prestigious St Mary Magdalene Academy nearby.
Dining Out
Angel boasts various dining options, including:
- Specialist bakeries
- Cafes
- Wine bars
- Pubs
- Gastropubs
Upper Street is a notable destination for dining, offering a range of international cuisines. For instance, Trullo is famous for its delicious pasta dishes like pappardelle with slow-cooked beef-shin ragù. Another standout is Farang, known for its beef curry slow-cooked for six hours.
Additionally, FKA Black Axe Mangal offers a unique tasting menu featuring dishes like ox heart on flatbread. The Nook, with its Mediterranean and Turkish-inspired menu, is noted for its crispy courgette dolma bites. These diverse dining options make Angel a culinary hotspot, perfect for food enthusiasts.
Shopping Experience
Shoppers in Angel are treated to a broad variety of options, including:
- High street brands
- Boutique stores
- Vintage shops
- Antique stores
Upper Street, in particular, is known for its mix of high street brands, independent boutiques, vintage shops, and antique stores. This variety ensures that shoppers can find everything they need, from everyday essentials to unique treasures.
Camden Passage in Angel is renowned for its antique shops and unique boutiques. This area is a haven for those looking for one-of-a-kind items and vintage finds. The diverse shopping options in Angel cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences, making it a favourite destination for shoppers.
Barnsbury
Noted for its Victorian and Georgian houses, Barnsbury exudes a serene, suburban ambience. The area is suitable for families due to its peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained streets. Notable features in Barnsbury include Lonsdale Square and Thornhill Square, known for their picturesque settings.
The quiet, leafy streets of Barnsbury make it an ideal place for those seeking a serene living environment.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Barnsbury has several parks that are ideal for family outings and recreational activities. The highly-rated primary schools in the area make it an attractive choice for families with young children. These features contribute to Barnsbury’s reputation as a family-friendly neighbourhood.
The range of family-oriented amenities in Barnsbury creates a community-focused environment, making it a delightful place …
In addition to parks and schools, Barnsbury also features several coffee shops that are popular among families for casual gatherings. The range of family-oriented amenities in Barnsbury creates a community-focused environment, making it a delightful place to raise a family.
Canonbury
Canonbury is a peaceful residential locale with picturesque surroundings that attract older professionals and families. The neighbourhood features charming Georgian townhouses, wide streets, and leafy squares. The area also boasts good schools, making it a favourable choice for families.
Although it ranks among Islington’s pricier districts, Canonbury’s closeness to central London, Islington, and Regent’s Canal heightens its appeal.
Historical Charm
Canonbury Tower is a significant historical site in the area, adding to the neighbourhood’s appeal. Built between 1509 and 1532, it is the oldest building in Islington and a significant example of Tudor architecture. The tower was restored in 1907-08 by the 5th Marquess of Northampton, preserving many of its original features.
Canonbury Tower has been occupied by notable figures, including Thomas Cromwell, Sir Francis Bacon, and Washington Irving. It also has ties to historical and literary figures like George Orwell. This rich historical background adds a unique charm to Canonbury, making it a fascinating place to live.
Community Vibe
Canonbury’s community vibe is enhanced by hidden pubs and quirky cafes, offering cosy spots for socialising and significantly contributing to its neighbourhood charm. For instance, the Canonbury Tavern boasts a historic pub garden, while The Compton Arms, noted for its connection to George Orwell, offers excellent burgers.
Cafes like Sawyer and Gray are known for their artisanal breakfasts and home-baked goods, adding to the neighbourhood’s charm. These hidden gems create a close-knit community feel, making Canonbury a delightful place to live and socialise.
Living in Islington: Housing Options
Islington features an array of housing, including:
- Period homes
- Modern apartments
- Converted warehouses
- New developments
- Georgian terraces
- Victorian houses
- Sleek new-build apartments
There’s something for everyone in Islington.
Compared to areas like Canonbury, Holloway presents more budget-friendly housing options, offering a variety of choices for different financial capacities.
House Prices
On average, property in Islington is priced around £849,423. The average price for flats in Islington is around £660,549, while terraced properties have an average sale price of £1,482,961. Semi-detached properties in Islington average around £2,036,419. House prices in Islington have seen a steady increase over recent years.
Canonbury and Holloway are among the pricier areas in Islington, reflecting their desirability. Despite the relatively high cost of housing, the charm and amenities of these areas make them appealing to many prospective buyers.
Renting in Islington
Islington’s rental market is highly competitive, with properties frequently getting leased out swiftly. Rental prices for one-bedroom flats in Islington are typically higher than the London average. Larger homes, such as three-bedroom houses, are also available for rent in Islington, but at a higher cost.
In particular, Highbury’s bustling rental market draws young professionals and families due to its easy commuting distance to central London. The diverse housing options and vibrant community make renting in Islington an attractive option for many.
Things to Do in Islington
Islington is home to a lively arts scene, punctuated by an array of galleries and artistic spaces. The area also offers a variety of trendy bars and pubs, popular among locals and visitors alike.
From enriching cultural experiences to exciting nightlife, Islington offers a myriad of activities.
Theatres and Cinemas
Islington houses several esteemed fringe theatres, which present unique and intimate performances. The Almeida Theatre is renowned for its high-quality and innovative productions, attracting a diverse audience. The King’s Head Theatre, one of the oldest pub theatres in London, showcases a mix of traditional and contemporary performances.
The Screen on the Green is a popular cinema in Islington, known for its historic significance and modern amenities. These cultural venues contribute to the rich arts scene in Islington, providing entertainment options for all tastes.
Sports and Fitness
Highbury Pool & Fitness Centre features a 25-metre swimming pool and a separate teaching pool suitable for all ages. The gym at Highbury Pool & Fitness Centre includes cardio, strength, and functional training zones. This comprehensive fitness centre caters to a wide range of fitness needs.
The Sobell Leisure Centre in Islington offers a range of sports facilities, including an ice rink and climbing wall. These facilities provide numerous opportunities for sports and fitness enthusiasts to stay active and healthy.
FUN FACT
Islington boasts a vibrant arts scene with renowned theatres alongside the historic Screen on the Green cinema, offering diverse entertainment for all tastes. For those seeking active pursuits, the Highbury Pool & Fitness Centre and the Sobell Leisure Centre provide excellent sports and fitness facilities.
Summary
Living in Islington offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities, making it a highly desirable area in North London. Each neighbourhood, from the family-friendly streets of Highbury & Islington, the trendy vibe of Angel, the quiet charm of Barnsbury, to the picturesque beauty of Canonbury, has something special to offer. With diverse housing options ranging from period homes to modern apartments, vibrant nightlife, excellent dining, unique shopping experiences, and a strong community spirit, Islington caters to both professionals and families. Its excellent transport links and proximity to central London, combined with a rich cultural scene and numerous green spaces, provide a high-quality London life that is hard to match.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Islington a desirable place to live?
Islington is a highly desirable place to live because of its mix of historic charm and modern amenities, excellent transport links, vibrant nightlife, and strong community spirit, all in North London. So, it’s a great place to consider settling down.
Which neighbourhoods in Islington are best for families?
Highbury & Islington, Barnsbury, and Canonbury are the best neighbourhoods in Islington for families, offering excellent schools, peaceful atmospheres, and family-oriented amenities.
Are there affordable housing options in Islington?
Yes, there are more affordable housing options in areas like Holloway than in pricier neighbourhoods like Canonbury in Islington.
What types of housing are available in Islington?
Islington offers a diverse range of housing options, such as Georgian and Victorian terraced houses, modern apartments, converted warehouses, and new-build developments. You can choose from a variety of housing styles to find the perfect fit for your needs.
What recreational activities are available in Islington?
Islington offers a wide range of recreational activities, including parks, arts and entertainment venues, trendy bars and pubs, and sports facilities like Highbury Pool & Fitness Centre and Sobell Leisure Centre. Enjoy exploring the diverse leisure options in the area!
