Islingtonwhere to stay.

Where to stay in Islington (best areas + vibe)

Islington (around Upper Street and Angel) is lively and “independent” in feel—think independent shops, pubs, and plenty of places to eat and drink into the night. Upper Street is the main strip, stretching between Highbury & Islington and Angel, and it’s known for its concentration of restaurants, bars and boutiques.

If you want the classic buzzing Islington base, choose Hotel Indigo London Clerkenwell (4★) or Citadines Islington London (4★) (great for hopping between Islington’s food scene and nearby central north London). For a slightly calmer, higher-end pocket with strong reviews, The Finsbury Park Collection (4★) is an excellent choice. Goodwin (3★) suits travellers who want an efficient, no-fuss base near the action, while Mountview Guesthouse (3★) and Kandara Guest House (3★) work well if you prefer a more homely, independent-stay feel.

Dining & nightlife

For evenings, start on Upper Street for a mix of casual bites and higher-end dining. Then head to Exmouth Market, a pedestrianised foodie hub with bars, cafes and standout restaurants all in one place. Islington is also well-known for markets—Islington runs a variety of street-food and speciality markets across the borough.

Walkability & getting around

This is one of London’s easiest areas to explore on foot: Upper Street links key neighbourhood spots, and you’ll find lots of pedestrian-friendly pockets around Camden Passage and Exmouth Market.

Attractions to walk to

Catch a show at Sadler’s Wells (dance and theatre), or check out King’s Head Theatre for quirky programming. For daytime browsing, Camden Passage and Exmouth Market are ideal.