Islington has long been one of London’s most desirable boroughs, offering a rare mix of central location, strong transport links, historic streets, green spaces, and vibrant local culture. Sitting just north of the City of London, it appeals to professionals, families, creatives, and long-term residents who want urban living without losing a sense of community.
This in-depth guide explores the best areas to live in Islington, breaking down neighbourhoods, housing styles, transport, lifestyle, safety, schools, and who each area suits best. Whether you are renting, buying, or planning a future move, this article is designed to help you make an informed decision.
Why Islington Is One Of London’s Most Popular Boroughs
Islington’s popularity is no accident. The borough consistently ranks highly for quality of life, walkability, and access to central London, while still retaining distinct neighbourhood identities.
Central Location Without City Chaos
Islington borders:
- Camden
- Hackney
- Haringey
- The City of London
This places residents within minutes of major employment hubs while avoiding the intensity of areas like Soho or Shoreditch.
Excellent Transport Links
Islington is one of the best-connected boroughs in London, with:
- Underground services on multiple lines
- Overground stations
- National Rail connections
- Extensive bus routes
- Easy cycling access into central London
Commute times to the West End, City, Canary Wharf, and King’s Cross are often under 30 minutes.
Strong Housing Demand
Demand in Islington remains consistently high due to:
- Period housing stock
- Limited new-build supply in many areas
- Excellent amenities
- Strong rental market
This has helped property values remain resilient even during broader market slowdowns.
Angel
Best for: Professionals, nightlife lovers, renters, convenience
Angel is one of Islington’s most recognisable and energetic areas. Centred around Upper Street, it offers a lively mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment.
Lifestyle And Atmosphere
Angel is known for:
- Independent restaurants and cafés
- Bars, pubs, and theatres
- Boutique shops and well-known brands
- A busy but polished urban feel
Upper Street is one of North London’s most vibrant high streets, making Angel especially appealing to young professionals.
Transport
Angel Underground Station sits on the Northern line, providing quick access to:
- King’s Cross
- The City
- The West End
Numerous bus routes and cycle paths add further convenience.
Housing
Housing in Angel includes:
- Georgian and Victorian conversions
- Modern apartment blocks
- Warehouse-style flats in some areas
Things To Consider
- Higher rents and property prices
- Busy during evenings and weekends
Angel suits those who want central living with energy and convenience.
Upper Street And Islington Green
Best for: Urban professionals, couples, lifestyle-focused residents
Upper Street and Islington Green represent the heart of the borough’s social life.
Why This Area Stands Out
- High concentration of restaurants and bars
- Cultural venues including cinemas and theatres
- Strong retail offering
- Walking distance to Angel and Highbury
Housing Stock
- Period flats above shops
- Georgian terraces on side streets
- Some modern developments
Transport Links
- Angel Underground Station
- Highbury and Islington Station nearby
- Excellent bus coverage
Things To Consider
- Less quiet than northern parts of the borough
- Premium pricing
This area is ideal if you want everything on your doorstep.
Highbury
Best for: Families, professionals, long-term buyers
Highbury offers a calmer, greener alternative to Angel while remaining extremely well connected.
Residential Character
Highbury is known for:
- Leafy streets
- Large Victorian and Edwardian houses
- Garden squares and parks
- Strong neighbourhood feel
It feels noticeably more residential than Angel but retains excellent access to amenities.
Highbury Fields
Highbury Fields is Islington’s largest green space and a major draw for families and dog owners. It offers:
- Sports facilities
- Open lawns
- Children’s play areas
- Walking and jogging routes
Transport
Highbury benefits from:
- Highbury and Islington Station (Victoria line and Overground)
- Arsenal Underground Station
- Drayton Park Station
Things To Consider
- High property prices
- Strong competition for family homes
Highbury is one of Islington’s most sought-after residential areas.
Canonbury
Best for: Families, professionals, peaceful living
Canonbury is often described as one of Islington’s hidden gems.
Why Canonbury Appeals
- Quiet, elegant streets
- Beautiful period homes
- Village-like atmosphere
- Proximity to Upper Street without the noise
Canonbury feels refined and understated, attracting residents who value privacy and character.
Housing
- Georgian townhouses
- Victorian terraces
- High-quality conversions
Transport
- Canonbury Overground Station
- Easy access to Highbury and Islington Station
- Good bus routes
Things To Consider
- Limited nightlife
- High house prices
Canonbury is perfect for those seeking calm, character, and central access.
Barnsbury
Best for: Professionals, families, period property lovers
Barnsbury is one of Islington’s most architecturally impressive neighbourhoods.
Character And History
Barnsbury is known for:
- Grand Georgian terraces
- Conservation areas
- Quiet streets
- Strong sense of community
It feels almost village-like despite being close to King’s Cross and the City.
Transport
- Caledonian Road Underground Station
- King’s Cross within walking distance for some parts
- Excellent bus links
Lifestyle
- Local pubs and cafés
- Community-focused environment
- Easy access to central London
Things To Consider
- Limited modern developments
- Premium pricing for period homes
Barnsbury is ideal for those who appreciate historic charm and long-term stability.
Holloway
Best for: First-time buyers, renters, students
Holloway offers more affordability than southern Islington while retaining excellent transport links.
Housing Value
- More competitively priced flats
- Mix of purpose-built blocks and conversions
- Good rental availability
This makes Holloway popular with:
- First-time buyers
- Students
- Young professionals
Transport
- Holloway Road Underground Station (Piccadilly line)
- Caledonian Road
- Overground and bus routes
Amenities
- High street shops
- Gyms and supermarkets
- Close to Emirates Stadium
Things To Consider
- Busier roads in parts
- Less polished than Angel or Canonbury
Holloway suits those seeking Islington access at a lower price point.
Finsbury Park (Islington Side)
Best for: Commuters, renters, buyers seeking value
The Islington side of Finsbury Park offers excellent connectivity and access to green space.
Transport Powerhouse
Finsbury Park Station provides:
- Victoria line
- Piccadilly line
- National Rail services
This makes it one of London’s most connected transport hubs.
Green Space
Finsbury Park itself offers:
- Large open spaces
- Sports facilities
- Event spaces
Housing
- Flats and conversions
- Some newer developments
- Good value compared to southern Islington
Things To Consider
- Busy station area
- Ongoing regeneration
This area is ideal for commuters and value-focused buyers.
Tufnell Park (Islington Border)
Best for: Families, professionals, quieter living
While often associated with Camden, parts of Tufnell Park fall within Islington and offer a strong residential appeal.
Residential Feel
- Hillside streets
- Period houses
- Quiet atmosphere
- Strong community presence
Transport
- Tufnell Park Underground Station
- Good bus links
- Easy access to Kentish Town and Archway
Lifestyle
- Independent cafés
- Local shops
- Proximity to Hampstead Heath
Things To Consider
- Limited nightlife
- Higher prices for houses
Tufnell Park suits those wanting space and calm within Zone 2.
Safety And Quality Of Life In Islington
Islington is generally considered a safe inner London borough, though safety varies by area and street.
- Highbury, Canonbury, and Barnsbury are often viewed as quieter and more family-oriented
- Angel and Upper Street are busier, particularly at night
- Regeneration and community investment have improved lighting, public spaces, and safety
As with any London borough, researching specific streets is essential.
Schools And Education
Islington offers a wide range of educational options:
- Well-regarded primary schools
- Strong secondary schools
- Sixth forms and colleges
Areas such as Highbury, Canonbury, and Barnsbury are particularly popular with families due to school access and residential stability.
Green Spaces And Outdoor Living
Despite its central location, Islington offers excellent access to green spaces:
- Highbury Fields
- Finsbury Park
- Smaller garden squares
- Easy access to Hampstead Heath and Regent’s Canal
This balance of urban living and green space is a major draw.
Transport And Commuting Overview
Islington’s transport options include:
- Northern, Victoria, Piccadilly, and Circle line access nearby
- Overground connections
- National Rail services
- Extensive bus routes
- Cycle-friendly infrastructure
Commutes across London are generally quick and reliable.
Who Islington Is Best For
Islington is particularly well suited to:
- Professionals working in central London
- Families seeking strong schools and green space
- Renters wanting lifestyle and convenience
- Buyers looking for long-term value
- Creatives and freelancers
It may be less suitable for those seeking low-cost housing or a suburban environment.
Final Thoughts
The best areas to live in Islington depend on your lifestyle priorities.
- Angel for nightlife and convenience
- Upper Street for urban energy
- Highbury for families and green space
- Canonbury for peace and elegance
- Barnsbury for historic charm
- Holloway for value and access
- Finsbury Park for transport connections
Islington continues to stand out as one of London’s most balanced boroughs, combining central access, community feel, and long-term desirability.
Disclaimer
This article is for general informational purposes only. Information about areas, property, safety, transport, and amenities may change over time and can vary by location.
Nothing in this post should be taken as professional, legal, financial, or property advice. Readers should carry out their own research before making any decisions.
London 33 accepts no liability for reliance on the information provided.