Islington

The Basics

Get a taste of London life as you explore the district’s diverse restaurants and cafés, or peruse the trendy retailers that line the High Street and Upper Street thoroughfares. Locally led tours allow you to personalize your itinerary to suit your interests, while culture vultures can take advantage of tours that include the area’s literary or musical landmarks, including the site where Pink Floyd recorded some of their most iconic work.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Islington’s links to modern literature and classic British bands makes it a must for culture vultures.

• History buffs will enjoy the district’s Georgian and Victorian architecture, as well as its connection to modern politics.

• Most of the area’s major attractions are wheelchair friendly; check specific arrangements ahead of time.

How to Get There

Islington is well-covered by London’s transport network. The Angel tube station serves its southerly border, while Highbury & Islington station marks the end of Upper Street. Several local buses also operate in the area.

When to Get There

Islington’s nightlife is particularly popular with capital dwellers, and its bars, clubs, theaters, and live music venues provide entertainment well into the early hours. Alternatively, early birds can seek out one of the area’s bottomless brunch venues for a typically London experience.

Islington and English Literature

Islington’s influence on English culture is clear in its literary links. George Orwell wrote part of 1984 while living in Islington, and Douglas Adams, author ofThe Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, often referenced his home town in his work. A fictional Islington street serves as the Order of the Phoenix headquarters inHarry Potter, and the area appears in many Charles Dickens novels, includingOliver Twist andNicholas Nickleby.

Ways to explore

Get a taste of local London life in Islington, where independent cafés, diverse global eateries, and stylish boutiques line Islington High Street and Upper Street. You can explore the area independently at your own pace, browsing stalls at Camden Passage, stopping for lunch at The Duke Organic, and maybe even booking to see a show at the Almeida Theatre. Alternatively, opt for a private tour with a customizable itinerary to visit the area’s highlights that interest you most. Whether you’re here to shop, eat, or dive into local history, Islington offers a laidback yet culturally rich day out.

Accessibility

Many areas of Islington, including its parks, are wheelchair-accessible. Individual businesses will have their own levels of accessibility, so check ahead if there’s somewhere specific you’re keen to visit.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Contactless payment, refillable water bottle

What to wear

Comfortable shoes, layers

Not allowed

Barbecues in parks, littering

Amenities

Parks and green spaces, cafés, restaurants, shops

Address

Islington is well covered by London’s transport network. The Angel tube station serves its southerly border, while Highbury & Islington station marks the top end of Upper Street. Many local buses also operate in the area.

Driving

Islington lies just outside the Congestion Charge zone, but it’s likely you’ll have to pass through it if driving from central London. You’ll also need to pay the ULEZ charge if your car is eligible. Parking can be limited, so driving generally isn’t recommended.

Public transportation

By tube, take the Victoria line to Highbury & Islington or the Northern line to Angel. Highbury & Islington station is also served by the Mildmay and Windrush overground lines. Many buses stop in the area, including the 19 and 30.

Best times to visit

Try to get to Islington outside of morning rush hour—typically 7:30am to 9:30am—to avoid early commuters.

Best days to visit

It’s always a good day to visit Islington, but weekends can be busier, so opt for a weekday for a quieter experience.

Best months to visit

Islington is fun to stroll around or people-watch from a café, so try to visit when it’s warm, such as June through September.

Special events

Summer is a great time to visit Islington. Don’t miss the Festival of Music and Art, which typically takes place in July and features live music and cultural events.