The London Borough of Islington
The London Borough of Islington is an inner London borough situated to the north of the River Thames. Known for its vibrant culture, striking Georgian and Victorian architecture, and high population density, Islington offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban living.
Location and Borders
Islington is located in north-central London and is bordered by several other London boroughs:
- To the north: London Borough of Haringey
- To the east: London Borough of Hackney
- To the south: City of London
- To the west: London Borough of Camden
The borough covers an area of approximately 5.74 square miles (14.86 square kilometres), making it the third smallest borough in London by area1.
Establishment and Name
Islington was created in 1965 when the former metropolitan boroughs of Islington and Finsbury were merged as part of the reorganisation under the London Government Act 1963.2
The name "Islington" is believed to derive from the Saxon word Giseldone, later evolving into Isendone. It likely meant "Gīsl's hill" or "the hill belonging to Gisla’s people," referring to a local tribal leader3.
Population and Demographics
As of the 2021 census, the London Borough of Islington had a population of approximately 216,000 residents.4 Despite its small size, it is one of the most densely populated areas in the UK, with a population density of over 14,000 people per square kilometre—the highest of any local authority area in England and Wales5.
Islington is ethnically diverse. The racial composition includes approximately:
- White: 60.6%
- Black or Black British: 13.6%
- Asian or Asian British: 10.4%
- Mixed/Other ethnic groups: 15.4%
These figures reflect Islington’s character as a multicultural and cosmopolitan borough6.
Property Prices and Rental Market
Real estate in Islington is known for being expensive by London standards. The average property price in 2024 was around £790,000, with prices significantly higher in desirable areas like Angel and Canonbury.7
Rental rates are also high, with the average rent for a one-bedroom flat exceeding £2,200 per month. While this makes Islington more expensive than the London average, it remains popular due to its central location, excellent amenities, and cultural attractions.
Transport and Underground Stations
London Underground
Islington is well served by several London Underground lines, with stations including:
- Angel – Northern line
- Highbury & Islington – Victoria line
- Caledonian Road – Piccadilly line
- Holloway Road – Piccadilly line
- Arsenal – Piccadilly line
- Finsbury Park (border station) – Victoria and Piccadilly lines
- Old Street (partially within Islington) – Northern line
National Rail and Overground
In addition to the Underground, Islington is served by:
- Highbury & Islington – London Overground and Great Northern services
- Finsbury Park – Great Northern, Thameslink, and National Rail services
- Essex Road – Great Northern (peak hours)
- Caledonian Road & Barnsbury – London Overground
- Canonbury – London Overground
These extensive connections make it easy to travel across London and beyond.
Culture and Attractions
Islington is home to many cultural venues and attractions. Upper Street in Angel is a well-known stretch for dining, pubs, and independent shops. The Almeida Theatre and Sadler’s Wells are key highlights in the borough’s performing arts scene.
Also notable is the Regent’s Canal, which cuts across the borough, offering scenic walking and cycling routes. The canal is popular with both residents and visitors alike, especially during warmer months.
Fun Fact
Arsenal Football Club plays its home matches in Islington at the Emirates Stadium. While the club was originally founded in Woolwich, south-east London, it moved to Highbury in 1913 and has been a key part of the borough’s identity ever since.8
Quick Facts
- Location: Inner London, north of the Thames
- Area: 5.74 square miles (14.86 km²)
- Established: 1965
- Population: Approx. 216,000
- Population Density: Highest in England and Wales
- Ethnic Makeup: 60.6% White, 13.6% Black, 10.4% Asian, 15.4% Mixed/Other
- Average Property Price: £790,000
- Average Monthly Rent (1-bed): £2,200+
- Underground Stations: Angel, Highbury & Islington, Arsenal, Holloway Road, Caledonian Road, more
- Other Rail Services: London Overground, Great Northern, Thameslink
- Fun Fact: Arsenal FC’s home stadium is in Islington
References
- London Councils – Islington Borough Profile
- London Government Act 1963
- British History Online – Islington Origins
- Office for National Statistics – Census 2021
- BBC News – Population Density by Borough
- Islington Council – Borough Demographics
- Rightmove – Islington Property Market
- Arsenal FC – Emirates Stadium History
Map of Islington, London
Painting of Islington, London (View image in full size)
