Overview
Islington’s transformation from a rural village into a fashionable Georgian suburb began in the 18th century, with elegant terraces and squares built along Upper Street and around Canonbury and Barnsbury. The area fell into disrepair through the early 20th century before being gradually rediscovered from the 1960s onwards, and is now one of London’s most established and consistently popular neighbourhoods.
Talk to us
Looking for a home in Islington? Speak to Jane Wood & Associates for a discreet, highly personalised search shaped around your priorities.
Our Insight
Islington suits buyers who want to be close to the City, with arguably the best high street of any north London neighbourhood. Success here relies on good local knowledge and an understanding of how each pocket differs.
Why live in Islington
- Upper Street, with a plethora of shops, cafes, and restaurants, among the best in north London.
- Beautifully preserved Georgian and Victorian squares throughout Canonbury and Barnsbury, many with private communal gardens.
- Excellent transport links, with Angel, Highbury and Islington, and King’s Cross St Pancras all within easy reach.
- Close proximity to the City, making it a popular choice for those working in finance, law, and professional services.
Property Landscape
Islington’s property market is built on its exceptional Georgian and Victorian housing stock. Canonbury Square, once described by the Evening Standard as London’s most beautiful square, offers handsome Georgian terraces facing private communal gardens. Barnsbury Square, Gibson Square, and Compton Terrace offer similarly elegant period houses, many within conservation areas. Streets such as Packington Street reflect the area’s Victorian expansion, with terraces originally built for clerks and artisans now converted into apartments. Alongside this period stock, canalside developments around Graham Street, including Crystal Wharf, add a more contemporary alternative.
Islington Highlights
- The Almeida Theatre, one of London’s most acclaimed fringe venues, with Sadler’s Wells nearby, internationally renowned for dance.
- Union Chapel and Islington Assembly Hall, two well-loved live music and events venues.
- Camden Passage, a charming pedestrianised lane known for its antiques and vintage shops.
- Chapel Market, a long-standing street market just off Liverpool Road.
- Regent’s Canal, offering towpath walks towards Camden and Hackney.
Local Alumni
George Orwell lived at 27B Canonbury Square from 1944 to 1947, completing some of his most significant work there. Thomas Cromwell and Francis Bacon are both associated with Canonbury Tower.
Education & Connectivity
Islington has several highly regarded primaries within the borough. For transport, Angel and Highbury and Islington stations provide Northern, Victoria, and Piccadilly line services, alongside Overground and national rail connections at Highbury and Islington and King’s Cross St Pancras.
Talk to us about Islington
- Local Expertise: With over 25 years of experience as London buying agents, we know Islington street by street, from the grand squares of Canonbury and Barnsbury to the streets around Upper Street.
- Exclusive Off-Market Access: The finest homes in Islington rarely reach the open market. Our network means we hear about them early.
- Professional Negotiation: We negotiate exclusively on your behalf, ensuring you secure the right property at the right price with complete confidence.