The smart, definitive guide to Islington, London

What's on in Islington

Located to the north-east of central London, the borough of Islington extends from Farringdon at one end to Arsenal at the other engulfing Angel, Clerkenwell and Newington Green on the way.  It has become a popular residential area and there is a rich mix of London restaurants, shops, theatres and gig venues to entertain residents and visitors.

Upper Street, in Angel, is one of Islington’s most popular areas and provides a healthy mix of shops and bars. If you’re looking for something a little more secluded, Camden passage, tucked away behind Angel tube is home to a number of antique shops, cosy pubs and cafes.

With over 100 parks in the area there’s also plenty of opportunity to practice your ball skills before heading over to the Arsenal ground to watch a game.  Or if football’s not your thing but you’re still up for an active event, visit Sadler’s Wells to marvel at some contemporary dance.

Thanks to its size, Islington caters for a wide variety of tastes and doesn’t have a defined scene like its Shoreditch neighbour. The masses tend to gravitate towards Angel, so expect it to get busy in the evenings and at weekends. Although at first glance the areas appears to be very commercial, it’s worth knowing that for every Walkabout bar that dominates the street there’s always  a smaller independent bar to complement it.

Islington Venues

• Barrio North
  Best for:  A well mixed cocktail served in a buzzy atmosphere

• Parasol Unit
  Best for: cutting edge contemporary art

• Sadler’s Wells
  Best for: Watching some of the latest and best in contemporary dance
• Union Chapel
  Best for: Watching quality bands in a beautiful venue
• Queen Boadicea
  Best for: Its great mix of music and food in smart, stylish surroundings 
• 02 Academy Islington
  Best for: Watching some well picked indie bands
• Old Red Lion Theatre Club
  Best for: Watching some fringe theatre
• Little Angel Theatre
  Best for: A family day out

Islington Facts
Tube Stops: Angel, Highbury and Islington, Arsenal
Borough: Islington