Find out about Islington and everything it has to offer, so you have plenty of handy information to help you decide whether it is the perfect next residential location for your family.
Moving to a new area is an exciting, if not slightly scary adventure, and Islington offers a vibrant and diverse neighborhood to call home. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about moving to Islington. From understanding the local economy and property options, to exploring the rich history, things to do, and providing insights into education and schools in the area – we have you covered. Additionally, we’ll share valuable tips on how self storage can make your move and living in Islington easier. Let’s dive in and discover all that Islington has to offer:
Where Is Islington?
Islington is located in the central part of London, just north of the City of London. It is bordered by the Boroughs of Camden to the west, Hackney to the east, and City of London to the south. Islington encompasses several postcodes, including the popular areas of N1, N5, N7, N19, and EC1. These postcodes cover neighborhoods such as Angel, Highbury, Canonbury, Holloway, and Clerkenwell, among others. Islington is well-connected to the rest of London through various transport links, including numerous tube stations, bus routes, and Overground services, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike.
Education and Schools in Islington
Education is a key consideration when moving to Islington. The area is home to a range of primary and secondary schools, offering quality education and a nurturing learning environment for children.
Islington Council oversees education in the area and provides comprehensive information on schools, admissions, and support services. Their official website[^1^] is a valuable resource to help you explore the education options available in Islington.
Islington offers a mix of state-funded schools and independent schools, catering to different educational preferences and needs. Here are some of the most well known schools and educational facilities in Islington:
- City of London Academy, Islington: This secondary school offers a comprehensive curriculum and has a strong focus on academic achievement and personal development.
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School: A highly regarded all-girls secondary school known for its inclusive ethos and commitment to empowering young women through education.
- Central Foundation Boys’ School: Established in 1866, this boys’ secondary school has a long-standing tradition of academic excellence and a rich history in the local community.
- Arts and Media School Islington: Formerly known as George Orwell School, this comprehensive secondary school places a special emphasis on arts, media, and creative subjects.
- City and Islington College: A popular further education college offering a wide range of courses, including academic A-levels, vocational qualifications, and adult learning programs.
- Mary Magdalene Academy: This Church of England secondary school combines a strong academic curriculum with a focus on spiritual and moral development.
- New North Academy: A primary school known for its inclusive and nurturing environment, providing a solid foundation for children’s education.
- Hugh Myddelton Primary School: This well-regarded primary school places an emphasis on academic achievement, creativity, and community engagement.
- The Bridge School: An outstanding special educational needs school catering to students with complex learning difficulties and disabilities.
- City, University of London: Although not strictly a school, City is a leading university located in Islington. It offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including business, law, health sciences, and the arts.
It’s important to research and visit multiple schools to find the best fit for your child. Consider factors such as academic performance, extracurricular opportunities, and the school’s ethos and values.
Things to Do in Islington
Islington is a lively neighborhood with plenty of things to see and do. From cultural attractions, to vibrant markets and parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
One must-visit spot is Upper Street, a bustling street filled with shops, restaurants, and theaters where you can explore the array of dining options, catch a show at the Almeida Theatre, or browse through boutique shops.
For art enthusiasts, the Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art is a hidden gem. It houses a remarkable collection of Italian artworks from the 20th century, showcasing the talent and creativity of renowned artists.
Nature lovers can visit Highbury Fields, a beautiful park offering green open spaces, sports facilities, and a delightful café. It’s the perfect place to unwind, have a picnic, or engage in outdoor activities.
The Local Economy
Understanding the local economy is essential when moving to Islington. The area boasts a thriving local economy with a diverse range of businesses and job opportunities.
Islington is known for its vibrant shopping areas, including Angel and Upper Street, which are lined with independent boutiques, trendy shops, and well-known brands. These shopping destinations contribute to the local economy and provide employment opportunities.
The creative industries also thrive in Islington, with numerous art galleries, theaters, and music venues. The area attracts artists, performers, and creative professionals, contributing to a dynamic and culturally rich community.
A Brief History of Islington
Islington has a fascinating history that dates back centuries. Once a rural village, it transformed into a bustling suburb during the Industrial Revolution. The area experienced significant development and urbanization, which shaped its character and architecture.
Islington played a significant role in the growth of London as a major city. Its close proximity to the capital made it an attractive location for residential and commercial purposes.
Local Transport in Islington
When moving to Islington, it’s essential to consider the local transport options available to ensure convenient and efficient travel within the neighborhood, and to other parts of London. Islington benefits from excellent connectivity, making it easy to navigate and explore the city.
Underground and Overground: Islington is well-served by multiple Underground and Overground stations. The Northern Line runs through the eastern part of Islington, with stations like Angel, Old Street, and Highbury & Islington providing easy access to central London and beyond. The Overground line also connects various parts of Islington, with stations like Hoxton, Canonbury, and Caledonian Road & Barnsbury offering convenient links to other parts of the city.
Buses: Islington has a comprehensive bus network that connects different areas within the neighborhood and to nearby boroughs. The extensive bus routes make it convenient to travel to key destinations, including popular attractions, shopping areas, and educational institutions. Bus services operate throughout the day and night, providing reliable transportation options.
Cycling: Islington actively supports residents using cycling as a sustainable and healthy mode of transport, which is why the neighborhood offers dedicated cycling lanes, bike-sharing schemes, and cycle parking facilities. Exploring Islington by bike is a great thing to do, with many scenic routes and cycle-friendly roads available to enjoy as a family.
Walking: Islington is a highly walkable neighborhood, with many amenities nearby. Walking is not only a convenient way to get around, but it also allows you to experience the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere, discover hidden gems, and enjoy its unique character.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are readily available in Islington. These services give you a quick and convenient way to travel to specific destinations.
By taking advantage of the various transport options in Islington, you can easily explore the neighborhood, get to work, and enjoy all other parts of London. The well-connected transport network ensures that you have seamless access to everything Islington and the rest of the Capital has to offer.
Property Types and Prices
Islington offers a range of property types, from Georgian townhouses to modern apartments. The neighborhood is known for its elegant and well-preserved architecture, which adds to its charm.
Property prices in Islington can vary depending on the location and type of property. At the moment, the average flat price in the area is over £692,000, and the average house is over £1.3 million [^2^].
To get an idea of the most current property prices, websites like Zoopla[^3^] and Rightmove[^4^] provide up-to-date information on property listings and have all the average prices in Islington. These sites mean you can filter your search based on your preferences and budget.
Self Storage Tips for Your Move and Living in Islington
Moving to Islington involves careful planning and organization, and self storage can be a valuable resource to simplify the process. Here are some tips for using self storage:
Trial Move: Self storage is a great idea when you’re organising a trial move to Islington. It means you can store your belongings in a safe place whilst you make the most of the rented space you’re in temporarily. Additionally, some people choose to rent out their house to fund a trial move to Islington, keeping their things in local self storage so their house is clear, and so they can live in minimally sized accommodation in Islington until they have made a decision about whether or not to stay there in future.
Decluttering: Before moving, take the opportunity to declutter and organize your belongings. Separate items you no longer need or use and consider donating or selling them. Self storage provides a temporary solution for storing items you want to keep but don’t need immediate access to.
Temporary Storage: If you’re downsizing or undergoing home renovations, self storage offers a convenient temporary storage solution. You can safely store your belongings during the transition period, giving you flexibility and peace of mind.
Seasonal Storage: Islington’s limited living space may not accommodate all your seasonal items. Self storage allows you to store seasonal belongings, such as winter clothing or holiday decorations, and access them when needed.
Is Your Next Home Going To Be In Islington?
Moving to Islington opens up a world of opportunities to explore its vibrant culture, thriving local economy, and diverse property choices. By getting yourself up to date and aware of the local economy, property types and prices, education options, and the area’s rich history, you can make an informed decision about relocating to Islington, and whether it’s the right choice for you.
Additionally, making the most of self storage can simplify your move and enhance your living experience in the neighborhood. Whether it’s storing belongings before your move, decluttering, or getting your living space in order, self storage offers additional flexibility and convenience.
As you embark on your journey to Islington, embrace the vibrant neighborhood and make the most of all it has to offer. With its rich history, diverse attractions, and self storage solutions, Islington is a great choice for families, young professionals and retirees alike.