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You might be surprised to know that Islington, a vibrant and culturally rich area in North London, is home to a diverse range of activities and attractions that cater to all types of visitors.
From bustling markets and scenic canal walks to world-class theaters and hidden green spaces, Islington offers a perfect blend of historic charm and contemporary attractions, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
As you explore this charming borough, you’ll uncover its unique character, rich history, and cultural delights, making for an authentic London experience away from the typical tourist traps.
Get ready to experience Islington like a local with our top picks and insider tips on the best things to do in this exciting area.
Discovering Islington: London’s Cultural Hub
Islington, a vibrant area in North London, is a cultural hub that offers a unique blend of history, entertainment, and local culture. As you explore this dynamic borough, you’ll discover a rich tapestry of experiences that showcase the best of London.
Where Is Islington Located?
Islington is situated in North London, making it a strategic location for exploring the city. The borough is easily accessible by public transportation, with several key stations serving the area. You can understand Islington’s layout and how its different parts, such as the vibrant stretch along Upper Street, contribute to its unique character.
How to Get to Islington
Getting to Islington is straightforward, thanks to its excellent transportation links. You can reach Islington by taking the London Underground to Highbury & Islington station, which is a major transport hub offering connections to the Victoria line, London Overground, and Great Northern services. From Oxford Circus, take the Victoria line train towards Brixton and alight at Highbury & Islington station, a journey that takes approximately 9 minutes.
Explore Islington’s Vibrant Markets
Islington’s vibrant markets are a treasure trove of unique experiences, offering a blend of antiques, vintage items, and local goods. You can explore a variety of markets, each with its own distinct character.
Camden Passage: Antiques and Vintage Treasures
Camden Passage is a must-visit for anyone looking for antiques and vintage treasures. This charming cobbled street is home to a variety of shops and stalls selling unique collectibles and vintage clothing on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
Chapel Market: A Local Favorite
Chapel Market has been a staple in Islington for over a century, offering fresh produce, street food, and bargain finds. You can experience the local culture and browse through the various stalls selling affordable goods.
Exmouth Market: Food and Independent Shops
Exmouth Market is a vibrant spot in the heart of Clerkenwell, known for its delicious street food, independent boutiques, and relaxed atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination for a lunchtime stroll or an afternoon snack.
Each of these markets offers a unique experience, showcasing the diversity and charm of Islington. Whether you’re looking for vintage treasures, fresh produce, or street food, Islington’s markets have something for everyone.
Stroll Along Regent’s Canal
As you meander through Islington, a serene escape awaits along Regent’s Canal. This historic waterway offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city streets, ideal for a leisurely walk or jog.
Islington Tunnel and Canal History
The 19th-century Islington Tunnel is a fascinating piece of local history, stretching 878 meters beneath the busy streets of Islington. Although you can’t walk through it, spotting this engineering marvel is a highlight of your canal journey.
Canal-Side Pubs and Cafés
After enjoying the peaceful atmosphere, head to one of the charming pubs along the canal, such as The Narrow Boat, The Island Queen, or The Charles Lamb, for a refreshing drink. You can also plan your route between King’s Cross and Hoxton, making the most of your visit.
Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the London Canal Museum near King’s Cross to learn about the canal‘s impact on modern London.
Experience Islington’s Theater Scene
Experience the best of London’s theater scene in Islington, where creativity knows no bounds. You can discover innovative productions, talented performers, and intimate venues that make Islington a hub for theater enthusiasts.
The Almeida Theatre: Award-Winning Productions
The Almeida Theatre is a gem in Islington’s theater scene, known for its bold and innovative works. With a 325-seat venue, you’re always close to the action. The Almeida regularly hosts stars of stage and screen, offering a mix of classic plays and modern theatre productions that often transfer to the West End.
Small Theater Venues Worth Visiting
Islington is home to numerous small theatre venues that are worth exploring. The King’s Head Theatre on Upper Street and the Old Red Lion Theatre are two such gems, offering intimate settings and a range of productions. These venues are crucial in nurturing new talent and experimental theatre, making Islington’s scene one of the most vibrant in London.
By visiting these theaters, you’ll not only enjoy top-notch performances but also contribute to the thriving cultural landscape of Islington.
Enjoy Upper Street’s Nightlife
Upper Street is where Islington’s nightlife comes alive, with numerous bars, pubs, and entertainment venues to explore. You’ll find a diverse range of options to suit different tastes, from casual pubs serving bar snacks to chic cocktail bars offering creative concoctions.
Best Bars and Pubs in Islington
For a classic Islington pub crawl, consider starting at The Camden Head for a cozy pint. You’ll find a variety of bars and pubs along Upper Street, including 69 Colebrooke Row and The Four Sisters, each offering unique atmospheres and signature drinks.
The Bill Murray: Comedy and Entertainment
Head to The Bill Murray, a well-known comedy bar, to catch a gig and be thoroughly entertained. This popular spot is a great place to experience Islington’s vibrant comedy scene, with comedians performing new material for just £5-£10.
Discover Green Spaces and Gardens
Discover the tranquil side of Islington by exploring its green spaces. Although Islington is a bustling city area, it has some delightful green oases that offer a serene escape from urban life.
Highbury Fields: Islington’s Largest Park
Highbury Fields is Islington’s largest green space, offering tree-lined paths, open lawns, and recreational facilities. It’s a perfect spot for locals and visitors to enjoy a breath of fresh air and engage in various activities.
Culpeper Community Garden: A Hidden Oasis
Image of Culpeper Community Garden
Culpeper Community Garden is a little-known, lovingly maintained space filled with plants and flowers. Established over 30 years ago, it now features over 60 sub-plots for local residents. Described as a ‘little oasis in the city,’ it encourages visitors to slow down and appreciate nature.
These green spaces provide crucial respite from urban life in a borough that doesn’t have many large parks. Visitors can enjoy the lawns, ponds, and wildlife areas, making them a vital part of Islington’s community.
London Borough of Islington, England: Best Things to Do for Art Lovers
As you explore Islington, you’ll discover a treasure trove of art, culture, and creativity that makes it a must-visit destination for art lovers. The area is home to numerous galleries, exhibitions, and cultural attractions that showcase its rich heritage.
Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art
The Estorick Collection is a unique gallery housed in a beautiful Georgian Grade II listed building, specializing in Italian art from the first half of the 20th century. With six rooms containing both permanent collections and rotating temporary exhibitions, it’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts. You can explore the gallery’s impressive collection, including works by Futurist artists, and enjoy the lovely café garden, where you can sit among sculptures and recharge.
Local Art Galleries and Exhibitions
In addition to the Estorick Collection, Islington is home to numerous other art galleries and exhibition spaces that contribute to the borough’s vibrant cultural scene. You can discover works by both established and emerging artists, and enjoy the diverse range of artistic styles and mediums on display. Some of these galleries are located on Upper Street, making it easy to explore multiple venues in one go.
Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking to explore Islington’s cultural offerings, you’ll find plenty to inspire and delight you. From the Estorick Collection to the numerous local galleries, Islington is a haven for art lovers, offering a unique and enriching experience that will leave you wanting more.
Experience Live Music in Islington
You can experience the best of live music in Islington, where various venues host local and international artists. The area is known for its vibrant music scene, offering something for every taste and budget.
Union Chapel: Atmospheric Concert Venue
Union Chapel is a celebrated venue for live music and comedy nights, boasting impressive architecture and an intimate setting perfect for acoustic gigs. It’s considered a local gem in Islington’s music scene.
Other Music Venues in the Area
Beyond Union Chapel, Islington is home to many other music venues. You can spot talented artists performing at various pubs and bars, making it a great place to enjoy live music at any time.
The diversity of venues ensures that there’s always something new to discover, contributing to the rich cultural identity of Islington.
Explore Islington’s Unique Shopping Destinations
You can find a diverse range of shopping destinations in Islington, from independent boutiques to modern complexes. The area offers a unique shopping experience that caters to different tastes and preferences.
Independent Boutiques on Upper Street
Upper Street is known for its eclectic mix of independent boutiques, particularly at the Highbury end, where you’ll discover one-of-a-kind items, from fashion and accessories to homeware and gifts. As you walk towards Angel, the street transforms with more familiar chain stores.
Islington Square: Shopping and Entertainment
Islington Square is a relatively new development that has become a hub for shopping, dining, and leisure. This complex, built on the site of the former North London Mail Centre, blends historic architecture with contemporary design, offering stylish retail outlets, dining venues, and a modern cinema.
Indulge in Islington’s Food Scene
Islington is a food lover’s paradise, offering a diverse range of dining options. You can explore the area’s top restaurants, cozy cafés, vibrant food markets, and street food vendors.
Top Restaurants and Cafés
Islington boasts some of London’s best spots for dining out. You can visit Kipferl Viennese Coffee House or Love Brownies in Camden Passage for a delicious treat. For more savory eats, head to The Breakfast Club for American-diner style food or Sushi Show for Japanese cuisine.
Food Markets and Street Food
Islington’s food markets offer a variety of options. You can visit Chapel Market for affordable fresh produce or Exmouth Market for gourmet street food. Many restaurants in the area also offer sharing platters, allowing you to sample multiple dishes and enjoy a communal dining experience.
Discover Hidden Gems in Islington
Beyond its vibrant markets and theaters, Islington conceals a variety of hidden gems worth exploring. You can uncover these treasures by visiting some of the borough’s lesser-known attractions.
The New River Path: A Scenic Walk
The New River Path is a 28-mile walking route that spans from Hertford to Islington. The 3-mile Heritage section is particularly scenic, taking you north from Islington’s urban landscape to the greenery around Manor House. This peaceful walk is a hidden gem, with its entrance marked by a tiny gate on Duncan Street, near Highbury and Islington Station.
Screen on the Green: Historic Cinema
Screen on the Green has been showing films in Islington since 1913, maintaining its old movie theater charm despite now being part of the Everyman chain. This historic cinema hosted a famous ‘Midnight Special’ in August 1976, featuring performances by The Clash, The Buzzcocks, and The Sex Pistols. You can still experience its unique atmosphere by attending one of its classic 35mm screenings or “rather late shows.”
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Visit to Islington
Whether you’re here for a day trip or a longer stay, Islington’s charm is undeniable. With its diverse range of activities, from markets and theaters to green spaces, you’ll find something that suits your interests.
Plan your visit around Highbury & Islington station or Angel station to explore multiple attractions in one day. Enjoy Islington’s unique blend of culture, food, and shopping, and don’t miss its hidden gems and residential areas that make it feel like home.
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The above is subject to change.
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