Area Guide / Islington / Founders of London

Islington is a district in Greater London and part of London Borough of Islington which was formed in 1965 by Metropolitan Boroughs of Islington and Finsbury. As a second smallest London borough it is a home to approximately 300,000 people mainly targeted by first time buyers, City workers, middle-class families, wealthy young couples and creative students.

Originally named "Gisla's hill" by the Saxons in 11th century the name was later converted to “Isledon”, which remained in use until 17th century when the “Islington” form arose. Islington grew slowly from a hamlet to a village, spreading along Upper Street and Lower Road, which later became Essex Road.

In 19th century Islington saw the greatest expansion and transformation in housing by which time the High Street were built and the main squares and terraces of Barnsbury appeared.

Upper Street is the main shopping street of central Islington and in recent years became extremely fashionable and notorious for its night-time entertainments. Where Camden Passage has become one of London’s most thriving antique locations and interesting place to search out an unusual gifts. This fascinating corner of Islington has attracted antique dealers and collectors worldwide. For daily shopping Chapel Market would be an ideal place as it is the largest street market in Islington located between Liverpool Road and Penton Street.

The London Borough of Islington is home to two higher education institutions: City University London and London Metropolitan University.

Islington has a wide range of transportation services including ten tube stations within its boundaries, with direct connections to the suburbs and the City and West End.

Over the past 20 years the area has become more upmarket and house prices have become more challenging attracting famous people like songstresses Lily Allen and Dido, as well actress Neve Campbell, lad mag staple Abi Titmuss and comedian Jimmy Carr.

Richard Cloudesley PH School
Tudor Rose Building
London, N1 8RE

St John Evangelist RC Primary School
Duncan Street
London, N1 8BL

Hanover Primary School
Noel Road
London, N1 8BD

St Mary's CofE Primary School
Fowler Road
London, N1 2EP

Richard Cloudesley PH School
Tudor Rose Building
London, N1 8RE

Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School
Donegal Street
London, N1 9QG

City of London Academy Islington
Prebend Street
London, N1 8PQ

area guide

Islington

Islington Local Schools

Adams Place, Islington, N7 8QH