If you are thinking of moving to Islington and are not sure what there is to do, Peabody New Homes has prepared an extensive guide of what makes this north London neighbourhood so special.
Things to do in Islington: eat at the best restaurants
You are spoiled for choice when it comes to restaurants in Islington and will be able to try out lots of different cuisines. Islington is an area of choice even for renowned chefs such as Yotam Ottolenghi. Known for putting a modern spin on Middle Eastern cuisine, the British-Israeli chef has opened an Islington Ottolenghi restaurant and deli. You can satisfy any of your cravings, from breakfast to dinner.
Camden Passage is a real gem to find lovely cafes and delicatessen. Start by discovering Trampoline Cafe, also known as the perfect spot to enjoy a lunch break after an intense morning of walking around the area. You can enjoy delicious sandwiches and coffees in a relaxing setting with accents of vibrant orange for a pop of colour. The other location to add to your list is Egro Deli. This ode to Italian traditional cuisine is both a boutique and a restaurant. You can find all the best produce to cook your favourite Italian dishes at home or stop by to eat in. The venue also hosts workshops to teach you how to make your own pizzas.
If you fancy a unique experience in a beautiful setting, check out Gloria, a few minutes' walk away on Great Eastern Street. This Trattoria is located only a short walk from Camden Passage into Shoreditch but is well worth a visit. You can pick from a large choice of cocktails and Piatti to quench your thirst and sate your appetite.
Find the best pubs in Islington
If you’re looking for the best pubs in Islington to grab a bite in a fun and relaxing atmosphere, we’ve got you covered. Check out The Old Queen’s Head on Essex Road and take your pick between juicy burgers, Sunday roasts and surprising cocktails. The pub also provides weekly entertainment with a themed pub quiz, life drawing events and live music nights.
Another gem the area has to offer is located right in Camden Passage. The Camden Head is a must for anyone who loves a good old-fashioned pub. The twist is that the venue offers a comedy club above its pub. You can have a look what’s on, from comedians testing new materials, playing their shows or even upcoming artists taking over open mic nights. Along the same lines, you can also try out the Angel Comedy Club in the Bill Murray pub on Queens Head Street.
Enjoy a break by strolling along Regent's canal
Islington has a few green spaces and the best way to enjoy some time in nature is to head to the canal path. Regent's canal connects Paddington Basin in west London to Limehouse Basin in east London. You can easily access it from Duncan Street and step into a peaceful scenery. Locals use the pathway that follows the water to go for a run, enjoy their morning coffee or even cycle to other parts of London.
If you cannot live without some greenery, meet up with friends at Highbury Fields for a picnic on the grass. Streched across from Highbury & Islington station, the open space is the largest in the borough. On top of providing some fresh air, this park is where Highbury Leisure Centre is located. You can work out, go for a swim and even take advantage of tennis courts.
Regent's canal offers nature and fresh air in the heart of London
Find the best night out
Islington offers the best of both worlds as it is conveniently located only a few minutes walk from Old Street and Shoreditch, the two places to be for a good night out. You can start your night at the Book Club, an eclectic bar in Shoreditch. The iconic place hosts comedy nights as well as DJ nights with lots of different music genres from R&B to hip hop.
In a similar vein, Queen of Hoxton is a bar with a rooftop that offers lots of events and live music. You can also try out their drag comedy cabaret night to discover unique and hilarious performances.
To continue your night in style, you can head to XOYO. This Old Street club is an iconic venue in the world of house, techno and disco music. They often feature well-known DJs and have had BEN UFO, Flava D and Calibre perform there.
Do your shopping
Islington is well-known for its independent shops and markets. It’s a great area to find good quality produce and artisanal pieces. You can start by strolling along Chapel Market. It’s the best place to find traditional and mostly long-running stalls. You can get household goods, clothing and some fruit and veg. For all the organic produce fans, check out the farmers market taking over the chapel market every Sunday.
If you are looking for vintages pieces and antiques, you can head back to Camden Passage. The pedestrian alley boasts several collectables boutiques, selling jewellery, ceramics, porcelain and other decorations. For more modern purchases, Upper Street is where it's at. There, you will find lots of high-street brands as well as high-end shops.
Get your culture fix
For all the culture and art lovers, the Islington borough has lots to offer. It has one of the oldest continuous-running cinemas in the UK: Screen on the Green. Now part of the Everyman cinemas group, the venue holds 125 seats. For an even more amazing experience, take advantage of the bar accessible at the back of the screen and choose one of the premier seats in luxurious sofas with footrests.
You can see dance productions and plays at the Sadler's Wells Theatre, on Roseberry Avenue, a few minutes walk from Angel tube station. And to discover the next generation of artists in the world of theatre and plays, make sure to check out Almeida Theatre, located on Almeida Street. The production house has been running for over 40 years and has established its reputation internationally.
If that sounds like you would enjoy living in Islington, you can check out our new Islington homes at City Angel. Located in Zone 1, our new development offers the perfect living location, within walking distance from Angel, Old Street and Upper Street.