Islington Green: Historic Urban Oasis in the Heart of London
A historic and tranquil green space at the heart of Islington, blending rich heritage with urban charm.
Islington Green is a small, triangular patch of open land located at the junction of Upper Street and Essex Road in London’s Borough of Islington. This charming green space, protected as a Centenary Field, offers a peaceful retreat amid the bustling city streets. It features a notable war memorial, a statue of Sir Hugh Myddleton, and commemorative plaques, making it a site rich in history and local significance.
A brief summary to Islington Green
- Upper St, London, N1 2XA, GB
- +442075272000
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit the statue of Sir Hugh Myddleton to appreciate the history of London’s water supply.
- Take a moment at the war memorial to reflect on the local community’s sacrifices.
- Enjoy a picnic or relax on one of the many benches amid the green’s peaceful setting.
- Explore nearby Upper Street for vibrant shops, cafés, and cultural venues.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Underground
Take the London Underground to Angel Station, which is approximately a 5-minute walk from Islington Green. The Northern Line services this station frequently throughout the day. Tickets range from £2.50 to £6.00 depending on zones and time.
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Bus
Several London bus routes stop near Islington Green, including routes 4, 19, and 38. Bus travel times vary but typically take 15-30 minutes from central London. Oyster and contactless payments are accepted, with fares around £1.75 per journey.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby, walking to Islington Green is pleasant and accessible, with flat terrain and well-maintained pavements. Walking times from Angel Station are about 5-10 minutes.
Islington Green location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Islington Green
A Unique Slice of London's Urban History
Islington Green is not a traditional village green but a surviving remnant of common land historically used for grazing by local farmers and tenants. Over time, much of the original land was built over during the 19th century, leaving this small triangular green as a rare open space in a densely built-up area. Its location marks the northern boundary between the Angel district and Islington proper, serving as a historic landmark where two main roads, Upper Street and Essex Road, converge.Memorials and Monuments that Tell a Story
The green is home to a striking war memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives in both World Wars, surrounded by carefully maintained plantings. A prominent feature is the statue of Sir Hugh Myddleton, the visionary behind the New River, which was vital to London's water supply from the 17th century. Though the fountain incorporated into the statue no longer functions, it remains a powerful symbol of the area's historical importance. Nearby plaques commemorate the former Collins's Music Hall, a cultural venue lost to fire in 1958, connecting visitors to Islington’s rich entertainment heritage.An Urban Retreat Amidst Bustling Streets
Despite its modest size, Islington Green offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Well-tended lawns and numerous benches provide comfortable spots for relaxation, picnics, or quiet reflection. The green’s location amidst busy roads and vibrant local shops adds to its charm as an urban oasis. It is a favored meeting point for locals and visitors alike, blending natural beauty with the energetic atmosphere of the surrounding neighborhood.The Cultural Pulse of Islington
Islington Green sits at the heart of a lively area known for its café culture, independent shops, and cultural venues. Nearby attractions include theaters, galleries, and historic squares that complement the green’s peaceful ambiance. The juxtaposition of quiet greenery and vibrant urban life makes Islington Green a microcosm of the borough’s unique character, where history, culture, and community converge.Architectural and Environmental Context
Surrounding Islington Green are a variety of architectural styles, from Victorian terraces to modern commercial buildings, reflecting the area’s evolution over centuries. The green serves as a protected space within this urban fabric, safeguarded by Fields in Trust as part of a World War I commemorative initiative. Its preservation ensures that this small but significant patch of greenery remains a vital part of Islington’s environmental and cultural landscape.Engaging with Islington Green Today
Visitors to Islington Green can enjoy a blend of history, nature, and local life. The green is open year-round, offering a peaceful setting for rest or social gatherings. Its proximity to public transport and central location make it easily accessible, while the memorials and statues invite reflection on the area’s past. Whether pausing to admire the monuments or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Islington Green provides a meaningful experience within London’s dynamic urban environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Trip Turkey
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Caithness House
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Statue of Thomas Coram
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Smallest Street in London
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Bleeding Heart Yard
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Cloth Fair
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St Bartholomew the Great
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St Bartholomew's Gatehouse
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Sir William Wallace Memorial
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A solemn 1956 memorial to Scotland's greatest patriot, executed here in 1305 for resisting English rule.
St Giles Cripplegate
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Shoreditch Church
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Finsbury Square
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London City wall
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Woburn Walk
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St Pancras New Church
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Unmissable attractions to see
Camden Passage, Islington
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46 Noel Rd
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Claremont Square
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Paseando por Europa - Londres
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The London Cultureseekers Group
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Traditional London Tours
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things to do in london
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Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art
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clueQuest - The Live Escape Game
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Experience London’s top-rated live escape rooms with immersive spy missions, clever puzzles, and thrilling teamwork at clueQuest.
Islington Museum
1.1 km
Explore Islington’s rich local history and vibrant community stories in this engaging, accessible museum beneath Finsbury Library.
Shoreditch Park
1.2 km
Sprawling urban green space in Hackney blending sports, play, art, and community with a vibrant, eco-conscious spirit.
London Canal Museum
1.2 km
Discover London's rich canal heritage and Victorian ice trade in a historic warehouse with immersive boat trips and fascinating exhibits.
Gagosian Gallery
1.2 km
A premier contemporary art gallery in London showcasing world-class exhibitions and iconic artists in a spacious, industrial setting.
Westland Place Studios
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Exmouth Market
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Essential places to dine
Dans le Noir ? London Restaurant
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St. John
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Experience authentic British nose-to-tail dining in the heart of London’s Barbican at St. John, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.
Nest Restaurant Old Street
1.9 km
Intimate Shoreditch gem offering creative British seasonal tasting menus in a cozy, historic setting with a sustainable ethos.
The Clove Club
1.9 km
Two Michelin stars meet innovative modern British cuisine in a historic Shoreditch Town Hall setting with a unique urban garden.
Lyle's
2.3 km
Michelin-starred Lyle's serves innovative, seasonal British cuisine in a minimalist Shoreditch setting with a relaxed, refined atmosphere.
Brawn
2.4 km
Seasonal Mediterranean small plates and natural wines in a lively, vintage-inspired Shoreditch setting on Columbia Road.
Alexander The Great Restaurant
2.5 km
Experience authentic Greek hospitality and generous Mediterranean flavors in the heart of Camden’s vibrant dining scene.
Frida Camden
2.5 km
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Madison
2.6 km
Stylish rooftop dining and cocktails with breathtaking views of St Paul’s Cathedral and London’s skyline.
Daphne Restaurant
2.6 km
Authentic Greek-Cypriot dining in Camden with warm hospitality, cozy ambiance, and generously portioned traditional dishes.
Il Sugo
2.6 km
A cozy family-run Italian restaurant in Camden serving hearty, authentic dishes with generous portions and warm hospitality.
Marugame Udon Middlesex Street
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Experience freshly handcrafted Japanese udon and crispy tempura in a lively open kitchen setting at Marugame Udon Middlesex Street, London’s authentic udon destination.
Hoa Sen Vietnamese Street Food Restaurant
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Margot
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Sarastro
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Unique Gifts
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Pop Up Luxury Shop
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Smithfield Market
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Persephone books
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Barbican Shop
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Discover curated art, design, music, and unique gifts at the Barbican Shop, a creative retail haven within London’s iconic Barbican Centre.
The Brunswick Centre
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Iconic brutalist shopping and cultural hub where modernist architecture meets vibrant urban life in Bloomsbury.
Luna & Curious
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Discover Shoreditch’s curated boutique of British craftsmanship, quirky design, and independent retail at Luna & Curious.
London Silver Vaults
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The world's largest underground marketplace for fine antique and contemporary silver, hidden beneath historic Chancery Lane.
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One New Change
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The Old Curiosity Shop
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Fancy That of London
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Spitalfields Market
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Twinings - The Strand
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Sclater Street Market
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Laki Kane Cocktail Bar & Thai Restaurant Islington
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Little Bat
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Simmons Bar | Kings Cross
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Spiritland
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Simmons Bar | Old Street
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The Duke
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Tonight Josephine - Shoreditch
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Callooh Callay
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
