_Islington area guide: a local expert's insights

Go back a few decades and Islington was a pretty undesirable inner-city suburb. Fast forward to today and Islington's been transformed into a coveted neighbourhood, for good reason. Its prime location – a mere 10 minutes will get you to the West End or City by tube – and attractive period properties are just 2 reasons why its popularity has soared.

Its offering is a vibrant mix of the familiar and the independent and unusual - be that shops, bars, restaurants or entertainment. There’s a real buzz about Islington, plus there are countless further options in nearby Hampstead, Highbury, Hoxton or even Central London all of which are nearby. In recent years, it’s become quite the business hub too.

Where is Islington?

The Inner London suburb has Hoxton to the east, Angel to the south, Kings Cross to the west and Highbury to the north. It’s only 4 miles away from Central London.

Way back when, it was known as an agricultural zone. These days it’s a busy and buzzing inner city area within walking distance of the City and West End.

What is there to do in Islington?

Chelsea Whelan, Partner and Head of Islington Sales shares her top 5 things to do in the area:

• Sadlers Wells: the destination for the finest performances of dance and ballet.
• Highbury Fields: 30 acres of open space, sports facilities and playgrounds amidst the built-up, urban centre. You’ll find it tucked away behind Highbury Corner.
• Regents Canal: another place to find some breathing space. The canal is a great place for dog-walking, running, pottering or enjoying a cuppa in a waterside café.
•Camden Passage: perfect for a leisurely browse of vintage shops, independent boutiques, local foodie places and a weekend market. Upper Street is also great for shopping.
• Screen on the Green: dating back to 1913, this eye-catching cinema with its neon façade has a single screen and a bar. A great spot for a night out.

Where’s good to eat in Islington?

Michal Bocian, Partner and Head of Islington Lettings gives his local insights on the foodie places to try.

Prawn on the Lawn
We can’t recommend Prawn on the Lawn highly enough. Its menu will vary according to what the fishermen have caught. Its small plates of seafood deliciousness will keep you coming back time and time again.

The Nook
Our go-to place for a glass of wine and some nibbles. It’s relaxed, friendly and inviting – an ideal place for a catch up with friends. Think small plates of something wonderfully tasty in a welcoming environment.

Trullo
This is simply the best Italian restaurant around. It transports you to an inviting Tuscan trattoria instantly. Simple handmade pasta and tasty antipasti, coupled with lovely Italian wine – what more could you want?

Farang
A modern Thai restaurant serving up absolutely sensational curries and more. You can eat in for the full delicious experience. But they also sell at home kits for you to try to recreate the dishes yourself.

Top Cuvee
It describes itself as a ‘neighbourhood restaurant with a cool bar’ and it is, but it’s so much more than that. Grab a seat at the bar and let the knowledgeable team guide you. Explore their natural wines with a cheese platter and don’t forget the legendary sourdough.

And don’t miss Exmouth food market on a Saturday. It’s foodie’s delight, with such an eclectic array of taste sensations on offer.

What type of properties are typical of the area?

Housing architecture largely consist of Edwardian and Georgian townhouses priced between £1,500,000 - £5,000,000, with some more modern buildings and warehouse conversions on the fringes of the city.

Some of the finest examples of Georgian architecture can be found close to Angel, on Duncan Terrace and Colebrooke Row - a quiet, elegant Georgian terrace of Grade II listed properties, situated behind Camden Passage in the heart of Islington. It's one of Islington's premier streets, fronted by a quiet strip of garden on a one way street within the conservation area.

Canonbury benefits from plenty of garden squares surrounded by Georgian townhouses. Regents Canal is within walking distance too. Barnsbury is an attractive enclave between Upper Street and Caldedonian Road – in particular, Lonsbury Square with its Gothic features. Angel is on the cusp of the City, and has an abundance of flats – period conversions and new-builds. Highbury and Islington is a more leafy area, but still right in the heart of everything. Period properties near green space are the goal for many.

Schools in Islington

The Islington area has a high proportion of residents aged under 40 (the second highest in London). It’s rich in interesting culture, young people and families. Many move here in the early stages of their careers and stay for decades, choosing to bring up their families in the area.

9 of the area’s primary schools have been rated ‘outstanding’ by Ofsted. There are 4 ‘outstanding’ secondary schools.

According to School Guide, the 5 best schools in Islington are:
Thornhill Primary, co-ed ages 3-11.
Robert Blair School, co-ed up to age 11.
St Mary Magdalene, co-ed ages 4-19.
St Mary’s CofE, co-ed, 4-11.
St John Evangelist, co-ed, 3-11.

Local private schools include the specialist St Paul’s Steiner school (co-ed 2-14), the Gower School (co-ed, 0-11) and Rosemary Works (co-ed 3-11). Then of course, many students travel to nearby Highgate, Hampstead or into the City for private education.

Chelsea Whelan, Head of Islington Sales says:

We love being part of the vibrant community on Upper Street. The only problem is choosing which coffee shop or café to visit next! So, if you want a flat in the heart of Islington or a smart townhouse with room for your family to grow, we’re here to help you find the Islington home that works for you.