Best Neighbourhoods in North London: A Home Buyer’s Guide

Islington is a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood, situated just north of the City of London. It boasts of its beautiful Victorian and Georgian architecture and bustling streets filled with independent shops, cafes, and markets. There is a range of housing options available, from charming terraces with small gardens to modern apartments.

When it comes to dining, Islington has some of the best restaurants, bars, and cafes in London. Ottolenghi is a popular cafe that serves Mediterranean-inspired dishes, while Smokehouse offers a selection of delicious smoked meats. And for world-class theatre and entertainment, the Almeida Theatre and Union Chapel are always worth a visit.

Located just east of Islington, Canonbury is a small, exclusive neighbourhood with a charming, village-like atmosphere. It boasts a selection of stunning Georgian and Victorian homes that offer a peaceful escape from the bustle of city life. The Islington Academy is a popular venue for concerts and events that attract audiences from all over the country.

Nature lovers will appreciate Canonbury’s proximity to Highbury Fields, one of the largest parks in North London. With 29 acres of greenery, a swimming pool, and tennis courts, it is an excellent location for a family outing, picnic, or jog.

Highbury is a large and diverse neighbourhood, located just west of Canonbury. It is mainly known for its popular residential areas, high-street shopping, and young professionals. Highbury Square is an old Arsenal stadium that was converted into luxury apartments, allowing residents to enjoy a slice of history and elegance.

When it comes to dining, Highbury has something for everyone, from restaurants serving international cuisine to independent cafes and bars. For a taste of Thailand, check out the popular Yum Bowl, while the Red Lion is one of the top pubs in the area.

There is no shortage of places of interest in Highbury. Emirates Stadium, the home of Arsenal Football Club, is a must-visit for any football fan. Meanwhile, Clissold Park is another favourite destination for nature lovers, with a butterfly house, deer enclosure, and a large lake.

Stoke Newington is a desirable area in North London that has undergone significant development in recent years. This neighbourhood has a strong sense of community, and you’ll find plenty of independent cafes, restaurants, and shops here. Clissold Park is one of the main attractions in the area, and it’s home to a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, otters, and waterfowl.

If you’re looking for a quiet residential neighbourhood with plenty of green spaces, good schools, and a friendly community vibe, then Stoke Newington could be the perfect choice for you.

Hackney is a vibrant and diverse neighbourhood known for its independent shops, trendy bars and restaurants, and fantastic cultural scene. If you’re a fan of street art, Hackney is definitely the place for you – it’s home to some of London’s best street art, including the iconic Banksy mural on Stoke Newington Road.

Hackney also has plenty of green spaces, including London Fields and Hackney Downs, perfect for picnics and lazy afternoons. For those with children, there are plenty of excellent primary schools in the area, such as Gayhurst Primary School and St John and St James CofE Primary School.

If you’re looking for a neighbourhood with plenty of green spaces and a village-like feel, then look no further than Highgate. This leafy suburb is located on the edge of Hampstead Heath and offers some spectacular views of the city.

Highgate is also home to some excellent schools, such as Channing School and Highgate School, making it an ideal option for families with children. 

Archway is an up-and-coming neighbourhood in North London that has become increasingly popular in recent years. This neighbourhood is located on the Northern Line and is just a few stops away from the hustle and bustle of central London.

Archway offers plenty of amenities, including numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants, as well as excellent transport links. One of the main attractions in the area is the Archway Tavern, a historic pub that has recently been restored to its former glory.

Barnet is a large suburban town in North London that offers a quieter pace of life than some of the other neighbourhoods on this list. Barnet has plenty of green spaces, including King George’s Fields and the Old Courthouse Recreation Ground, and there are plenty of good schools in the area, such as Queen Elizabeth’s Boys’ School and Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School.

Barnet also has good transport links – it’s on the Northern Line, and there are plenty of buses and trains that run through the town.