From strolling along Regent’s Canal to browsing vintage shops at Camden Passage, the area has a little bit of everything for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Expect cosy pubs, small theatre venues, fascinating local history, and so much more.
HOLD's storage facility is close by, so we're clearly big fans of the area. That's why we’ve pulled together our top picks to help you explore this lovely. We’ll also share useful tips on how you can make your visit to Islington even more enjoyable.
Let’s dive into the best things you can do in this lively corner of the capital.
Explore Islington’s lively markets
Chapel Market
Chapel Market has been a local staple for over a century, dishing out fresh produce, street eats, and bargain finds—no entrance fee in sight. A stone’s throw from Angel Station, it’s perfect for a quick wander or a lingering stroll with buskers providing a lively soundtrack.
Operating hours:
- Mon - Closed
- Tue - Sat - 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Sun - 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Camden Passage
Camden Passage may be small, but it’s brimming with antiques, vintage shops, and quirky boutiques—an absolute dream for anyone chasing unique finds. The vibe’s lively too, with cute cafés and bars serving quick drinks or bar snacks. Whether you fancy sharing platters or sweet treats, there’s something for everyone along this charming pedestrian street.
Stroll along Regent’s Canal
Regent’s Canal brings a peaceful break from the city rush—ideal for a scenic walk or jog among colourful narrowboats, green spaces, and waterside cafés. Spot the 19th-century Islington Tunnel, a fascinating slice of local history, even if you can’t walk through it. After watching boats glide by, head toward King’s Cross to explore the London Canal Museum and learn about the canal’s impact on modern London.
Enjoy a night out on
Upper Street is often hailed as the heart of Islington’s nightlife, with a lively atmosphere and countless options for entertainment. You’ll find everything from casual pubs serving bar snacks to chic cocktail bars offering creative concoctions. Many of the area’s best restaurants are also located here, showcasing world cuisines and sharing platters to tempt every palate.
For a classic Islington pub crawl, consider starting at The Camden Head for a cosy pint before heading down the street to The Bill Murray – a well-known comedy bar where you can catch a gig and be thoroughly entertained.
Experience local theatre
Almeida Theatre
The Almeida Theatre stands on the corner of Almeida Street and is one of London’s most renowned small theatre venues. Known for its innovative productions, this auditorium regularly hosts stars of stage and screen. If you love classic plays or want to watch modern works, the Almeida won’t disappoint.
Tickets can sometimes be snagged at a discount if you keep an eye out for special offers. With its intimate room layout, you’ll feel close to the action no matter where you’re seated.
Contact: 020 7359 4404
Union Chapel
Union Chapel is much more than just a church – it’s a celebrated venue for live music, comedy nights, and other performances. The space boasts impressive architecture and a beautiful auditorium, creating an intimate setting that’s perfect for acoustic gigs. You can grab drinks at the onsite bar, and sometimes you’ll find bar snacks too. Beyond shows, Union Chapel is also home to a variety of community projects and events that support local families. If you have time, explore the grounds and admire the historic details, making it a top place to visit in the area.
Wander through green spaces and gardens
While Islington is known for its bustling streets, there are pockets of greenery dotted around. You can easily find gardens and parks that make for a relaxing stroll or a family-friendly rest from the city buzz. Highbury Fields is one of the largest green spaces in the borough, complete with tree-lined paths and open lawns. If you’re travelling with children, you’ll be happy to know there’s often an adventure play area in some of these parks. Another gem is Culpeper Community Garden, which includes an orchard and beautiful floral displays, offering a peaceful corner to recharge.
- Highbury Fields - Find in maps
- Culpeper Community Garden - Find in maps
Discover Islington Square
Islington Square is a relatively new development near Upper Street that has quickly become a hub for shopping, dining, and leisure activities. This modern complex is built on the site of the former North London Mail Centre and features a blend of historic architecture and contemporary design. Pop inside the stylish cinema to catch a film on the big screen, or spend your day browsing shops for the latest fashion trends. Islington Square also hosts cultural events and art displays, making it a vibrant venue that combines the old and new sides of Islington.
Check out small theatre venues
While the Almeida Theatre is one of Islington’s crown jewels, there are plenty of other small theatre spaces scattered around. The King’s Head Theatre on Upper Street is an intimate venue where you can watch an eclectic mix of productions. It’s the perfect spot to catch up-and-coming playwrights or see fresh takes on classic works. Meanwhile, the Old Red Lion Theatre combines a cosy pub on the ground floor with a small theatre upstairs, offering a warm setting to watch innovative performances.
- The King's Head Theatre - Find in maps
- The Old Red Lion Theatre - Find in maps
Dive into local culture and history
Islington has a rich history that’s woven into its streets, architecture, and cultural institutions. The area has long been a magnet for artists, writers, and musicians. You’ll often find art galleries showcasing new talent, as well as lively music nights in pubs and bars.
Explore the London Canal Museum near King’s Cross to learn about the role canals played in the city’s growth. Or pop into local museums and libraries for a deeper understanding of Islington’s past. Remember – behind the contemporary restaurants, shops, and bars, there’s a depth of culture waiting to be discovered.
Embrace the food and drink scene
Restaurants and sharing platters
Islington boasts some of London’s best spots for dining out. From Italian trattorias to spicy street-food pop-ups, the variety is endless. Many restaurants in the area offer sharing platters, letting you taste multiple dishes and enjoy a communal dining experience. You can also find quick bites at Chapel Market or Camden Passage if you’re looking to grab a meal on the go.
Cocktails, pubs, and more
When the sun goes down, Islington lights up with an impressive selection of bars, perfect for a drink or two. Cocktails at one of the sleek lounges on Upper Street make for a memorable start to a night out, while plenty of traditional pubs around every corner offer a more laid-back vibe.
Don’t miss the chance to pop by The Bill Murray or Camden Head if you’re keen on stand-up comedy or just want to soak in a lively pub atmosphere.
Explore more hidden gems
The Islington Tunnel boat trip
A boat trip through Islington Tunnel is a unique way to experience the area. While you won’t be walking inside the tunnel, you can hop on a narrowboat tour that navigates Regent’s Canal under the bustling streets above. It’s an unusual perspective, and you’ll get to learn interesting bits of history about how goods were transported into London.
Price range - £11 to £32
The Screen on the Green
If you’re a film buff, head to The Screen on the Green, an iconic cinema on Upper Street. With cosy seating and a retro-style marquee, it’s a stylish place to watch new releases or catch classic films. Tickets can sometimes be snapped up last minute, so keep an eye on showtimes if you want to be spontaneous.
Opening hours: 10 am daily (or half an hour before the first film of the day, if earlier).
Don’t miss live music in Islington
Live music is a staple of Islington’s entertainment scene. Many pubs and bars host regular gigs that showcase local talent, while larger venues like Union Chapel bring in big-name acts and touring artists. If you like musicals or theatre productions, the West End is just a quick trip away from Angel, but don’t forget that Islington itself can rival other parts of the city for exciting shows.
Keep your eyes open for flyers around Angel Underground Station or Islington Station advertising upcoming events. You never know which rising star you might catch performing in an intimate venue.
Wrapping up
Whether you’re here for a day trip or planning to settle in for a longer stay, Islington’s charm is hard to resist. Islington's guaranteed to captures your imagination, whether that’s a hidden antiques stall in Camden Passage, a new band playing live music at Union Chapel, or a scenic stroll along Regent’s Canal. Between the historic streets, lively bars, and dynamic theatre scene, this borough offers a unique blend of old and new.
Need a storage solution? HOLD is close by
After exploring Islington, you might find yourself with extra treasures from vintage shops or antiques you simply couldn’t miss. Or perhaps your moving to an apartment in the area and need a short-term storage solution. Whatever your storage needs, HOLD can help.
We're a next-gen storage service by Londoners for Londoners. Our facility is just a short walk from Islington, and offers tailored storage solutions for business, personal, and everything in between. Choose from a wide range of storage units with no fixed contracts, and take advantage of a stress-free storage experience. You can also explore our online box shop for any packing supplies you might need.
Get a free quote today and get 50% off for the first 8 weeks, and a price match within 3 miles.
Frequently asked questions
How easy is it to reach Islington from central London?
Islington is very well connected via the Angel underground station and the nearby Highbury & Islington station. It’s only a short ride from the West End, making it simple to incorporate a visit into your London itinerary.
Why is Islington called Angel?
The name "Angel" comes from the Angel Inn, a historic coaching inn that stood at the junction of Islington High Street and Pentonville Road. The inn dates back to at least the 16th century and was a key stop for travellers heading in and out of London. Its name likely referred to religious iconography, as many inns at the time were named after biblical or saintly figures. Over time, the inn became a well-known landmark, and the surrounding area adopted its name.
Which celebrities live in Islington?
Many celebs have made Islington their home (a tribute to the quality of the area). Notable figures include Kit Harrington of Game of Thrones fame, Lilly Allen, Tony Blair, Jimmy Car, and many more.
Does HOLD offer climate-secure storage for antiques from Islington’s vintage shops?
Yes, we do. Our storage units are climate-secure to help preserve antiques, artwork, and other delicate items you might pick up from Islington’s vintage shops.
Can you store furniture with HOLD if you’re moving homes within Islington?
You certainly can. Our units accommodate everything from small household items to large pieces of furniture, and we have flexible options so you can store items for as long as you need.
Is there parking near HOLD Self Storage?
Yes, we have off-street parking close to our facility to help you unload and load your belongings at our spacious loading bays.
Which markets in Islington should I visit?
Chapel Market and Camden Passage are two favourites among locals and tourists alike. Chapel Market is great for fresh produce and street food, while Camden Passage is ideal if you’re after antiques and vintage finds. Both are free to enter and showcase Islington’s bustling community spirit.
