Islington is one of London’s most diverse boroughs, with a significant area forming a central part of the City. It’s home to celebrities, green parks, and white houses.
It’s a densely populated and beautiful borough; its pavements are rich in history, art, and culture. Whoever you are, wherever you’re from, there is a part of Islington guaranteed to sweep you off your feet.
Visit a Working Farm at Freightliners City Farm
Freightliners City Farm provides a great escape from the bustle of city life. This community farm sees volunteers and visitors alike benefit from the joys of farming, gardening and rearing animals. Set over 2.5 acres of land in Islington the farm is both a place of tranquillity and a place to learn.
The farm is free to enter, offering families on a budget a great trip out. The little ones will love the menagerie of animals which includes cows, sheep and goats, with a mix of traditional and rare breeds on show.
Sample ale, music and theatre at the King’s Head Theatre Pub
When opened in 1970 the Kings Head Theatre pub was the first of its kind to open since the days of William Shakespeare. This traditional Victorian pub in Islington has the theatre attached behind, a room formerly used as a boxing ring among other things. Now it stages a diverse range of theatre productions.
The pub is also a live music venue, with weekly sessions held Friday and Saturday showcasing the best local talent. Pop along and enjoy the atmosphere while sampling the pub’s selection of real and craft ales.
Watch the Next Generation of Artists at the Almeida Theatre
The 325-seat Almeida theatre has built a reputation for top-quality productions as it aims to launch the next generation of British artists onto the world stage. Located in Chelsea and formerly a literary and scientific society, this small theatre can boast of an international profile.
Visitors to the theatre can expect to be inspired, entertained, and provoked into thoughtful discussion. Why not take a closer look behind the scenes with an hour-long theatre tour, before retiring to the café and bar serving freshly prepared and locally sourced food?
Watch Contemporary Dance in London’s Second Oldest Theatre Sadler’s Wells
Since 2005, Sadler’s Wells has been the home of contemporary dance in the Capital. The building was constructed in the late sixteen hundreds, making it the City’s second oldest theatre.
Today the theatre promotes, commissions, and produces outstanding dance and has become a world leader in its field. It’s a real treat to see a performance here and be one of the 1,500 seated in the auditorium.
Set the Camera Rolling at the Screen on the Green
This one-screened cinema is the epitome of retro, built way back in 1913, it’s one of the oldest continuously running picture houses.
What it lacks in choice it makes up for in atmosphere and the front of the building is a sight for sore eyes, especially when lit up at night.
Looking for tickets? They do sell out fast, I’d always book in advance – no one wants to call it a day before the opening credits are rolling.
Quench Your Learning Thirst at the London Canal Museum
If you want to learn more about London’s waterways but don’t fancy taking a dip in the Thames (I don’t blame you), then visit one of Islington’s most beloved museum, the Canal Museum.
Just to whet your appetite even further: if you book a boat trip on their website your entrance to the museum will be free.
I know, It’s just too good to be true, right?!
Have a Groovy Afternoon in Exmouth Market
Exmouth Market is exactly where it’s at! It’s one of the trendiest streets in London, lined with cute shops and restaurants.
If it’s teaming down with rain, run for cover in the 70s-themed Coin Laundry and play a vintage board game ‘till the Heavens close (be cheeky and ask them for a flying saucer, they’ll give you a few for free if you smile hard enough).
With its village-like atmosphere, you won’t believe your moments away from the busy Kings Cross – it’s just totally peaceful man!
Get Up to Allsorts on Upper Street
If you talk to any Islington-er they’ll tell you to get to Upper Street. Of course, there are trendy bars, fancy restaurants, cool furniture shops, and clothing boutiques, but what you don’t want to miss is its history.
Visit the Grade II Business Design centre during the day (it’s important to see it in the light) and find the stained glass window with the old ‘Royal Agricultural Hall’ sign.
Next, pop into Angel Flowers and take a look at the burnt ceiling beams that were rescued from the fire in London.
Oh, and if you dare, ask the owner to see the mummified cat in the office, it’s real purdy and I promise he won’t bite.
Find the Right Gift in Camden Passage
This car-free cobbled street just off Upper Street is lined with some of London’s best antique, vintage, and gift shops.
It’s a beautiful spot to have a nosey and if you’re looking for an unusual gift then there is no hard pass here, you’ll definitely find the perfect one, and I’d put my money on it.
Find Shopping Heaven at Angel Central
You’ll be able to shop in peace at Angel Central because it doesn’t attract too many crowds. The modern complex has high-street shops, chain restaurants, the 02 Academy, and Vue Cinema.
It’s the perfect gateway to the rest of the area, which is full of antique, charity, and vintage shops. If you arrive here by tube then you’ll ride Europe’s third-longest escalator at Angel Underground Station (it’s a whopping 60 meters long).
To get the full Angel experience find the galloping horse on Torrens Street and the “Do What You Love”, and “Love What You Do” walls just behind the station.
There are so many photo opportunities here it’s ridiculous – get the cameras charged and the smiles full!
Barter With a Londoner at Chapel Market
Markets are all the rage here in London, especially Islington. Chapel Market is brilliant with a ‘no frills’ atmosphere and stalls selling all sorts of bits and bobs.
On a Sunday it holds London’s very first farmer’s market, which has been going for almost 20 years. Some of the vendors do take cards but use the ATM outside Sainsbury’s if you need cash – it doesn’t charge.
Along the street, you’ll also find London’s oldest Pie and Mash shop which has been serving the public for over a century, they do tend to sell out just after lunch so get there early to avoid going hungry.
Get your head in the game at the Emirates
Islington can’t be mentioned without referring to the Emirates Stadium – the home of Arsenal Football Club. The stadium is huge and can be accessed via Holloway or Arsenal underground station.
It gets absolutely packed on match day, there is no atmosphere like it, but thrill seekers should also visit when the games aren’t on for a browse in the shop and a tour.
If you do catch a game then head out before the last whistle blows to be interviewed by Arsenal Fan TV. Everyone deserves their five minutes of fame now, don’t they?!