Cool Places To Drop In At Islington

When it comes to cool neighbourhoods London has its fair share of trendy neighbourhoods with a rich and eclectic history and vibrant communities. One such area is London’s Islington District that is a chic spot that has been home to greats like Lilly Allen, George Orwell and other well known celebrities. It is short distance from Central London, just a seven-minute ride via the Tube from Oxford Circus Station.

Some of the top things to do and places to visit in the area are:

It is also the area where you can expect to get some of the best London hotel deals. There are a number of fine luxury hotels in the area and in the off season they offer terrific discounts and special offers for guests.

There also are several luxury hotels for families that are popular with visitors on account of their central location and excellent transport links.

One such hotel is The Montcalm brewery hotel on Chiswell Street London that is a family friendly hotel with superb facilities and amenities available at a very decent price.

The Screen on the Green:

If you love all things retro than this is the place to visit with its red neon façade, couches and chairs, butter soaked popcorn and a brilliantly stocked bar. It has a retro allure that is simply unmatched anywhere else in the city. It is one of the longest running cinema venues in the country and is a single-screen venue. The program schedule is diverse and ranges from cult classics to film festivals, National Theatre real-time screenings to Q&A sessions. If you are on the lookout for a cinema with character The Screen on the Green has oodles of it.

Explore Islington's Waterways:

While the borough of Islington does not share its borders with either the Thames or the Lea, it has its own water source. There is the man made New River that is four centuries old and was originally built to supply fresh water to London from Hertfordshire. Although the more picturesque spots are to be found in the north, the small sections that are to be found between Canonbury and St Paul's Road are lovely to explore. Another prominent waterway that makes its passage through the area is Regent's Canal. It flows across the western fringes and then enters a tunnel that is beneath Upper Street, from where it re-emerges on Vincent Terrace. The spots to explore are its central and eastern sections take that are home to some lovely pubs like the Angel, Island Queen and the Narrow Boat.

Street Camden Passage:

It is snugly situated behind Upper Street and is a haven for vintage antiques where you will the place packed with cafes, wooden stalls, boutiques and the home of one of the oldest antique markets in the city. The Camden Passage Market first opened to the public in the 1960s and is open on Saturdays. You will find it teeming with collectors, interior designer, antiques dealers and visitors who come to browse through the exceptional antique collections. There are stalls and arcades that are occupied by families through the generations which give it a unique feel and atmosphere. It is an interesting alternative to the markets at Portobello Road. Once you are done with your shopping you could visit one of the most popular gastro pubs in the area The Elk in the Woods, which has a unique interior design theme like that of an English hunting lodge. For some of the finest chocolates there is a branch of Paul A Young. If you want to see the best in vintage clothes check out Annie's that has been accessories and trendy outfits.

Hen & Chickens Theatre Bar:

A splendid theatre bar the cosy ambience of the Hen & Chickens is superb place to spend an evening at. It plays host to some of the city’s best upcoming artists along with major names like Jimmy Carr and Russell Brand with the acts being performed here referred to as the ‘The Chicks’. It also offers a grand line-up of ciders, real ales, specialty beers, fine wines and a superb food menu. They even have their own jukebox that adds to charm and a warm and cosy ambience with leather couches and art adorned walls.

Sadler’s Wells:

To see the best in performing arts drop in at Sadler’s Wells that is over three centuries old. It has played host to the finest dance companies in the world, which include Christopher Wheeldon’s, Morphoses and Matthew Bourne’s - New Adventures. It strives to bring the finest of performing arts and global dance presentations to the audiences in London. Here you will find an eclectic display of the likes of flamenco to pop-culture ballet. They coffer a platform for cross-boundary performances that are a blend of eclectic cultures, art forms and styles. The theatre ensures to live up to the statement “dance is the art form of the moment".

Ottolenghi:

If you want to enjoy a flavour rich culinary experience with some of the most exotic of dishes drop in at Ottolenghi. The chefs at the restaurant have a strong liking for culinary experimentation that results in an exciting season based menu. There is a strong focus on Mediterranean culinary fare with generous use of natural ingredients that are sourced from local and European purveyors. The large candle covered communal tables give an interesting view of the kitchen that is always abuzz with activity, with dishes made to order. A terrific place to enjoy a delectable meal in a charming atmosphere!