Living in North London – N Postcodes

<< Back to all areas
 
Thinking of making North London your home? This vibrant area has lots to offer potential homebuyers, from great cultural attractions to some of the city’s best eating and drinking spots, and everything in between. Read our guide to living in North London for local insights on making the area your home.
 

History of North London

North London is an inexactly defined area of London, which lies north of the River Thames. It generally refers to the area from Clerkenwell and Finsbury to Greater London’s boundary with Hertfordshire.

Until the mid-Victorian period, the areas that would become North London were rural villages, with limited connections to London. However, from the middle of the 19th century, the area began to grow and expand, largely thanks to the development of the railway network. This facilitated economic growth in London, and led to the urbanisation of the surrounding areas.

Since then, North London has been a thriving area, and its population continues to grow. So, what makes this area so sought after?
 

Culture in North London

There’s a wealth of cultural institutions north of the river – and you don’t have to travel far to find some of the best museums in the world. Just north of the Thames is ‘Museum Mile’, the home of 14 world-class museums between the river and Euston Road including the British Museum, London Transport Museum and the Wellcome Collection.

But that’s not all North London has to offer in terms of culture. Islington is famed for its performing arts destinations, with Sadler’s Wells considered to be one of the country’s leading dance venues and the Pleasance Theatre offering top names in comedy, often before they take their shows to the Edinburgh Fringe. Camden is a hotspot for music, with an array of iconic music venues in the area, including The Roundhouse and Koko (previously Camden Palace).
 

Food and Drink in North London

North London offers many treats for foodies, with a huge selection of places to eat and drink. Whether you’re looking to dine out on oysters and champagne, or prefer grab-and-go options, there are no shortage of choices north of the river.

You can find food from all corners of the globe in North London, particularly from the well-established Turkish, Kurdish and Greek Cypriot communities which thrive there. From Islington to Hampstead and beyond, you’ll be spoiled for eating-out options. Camden Market is a favourite for tourists and locals alike, who love the huge variety of food, including classic fish and chips, vegan treats, mouth-watering burgers and much more.

North London is also a great location for a drink or two, whether you prefer a quiet night in a cosy pub, or a big night out. Islington is home to upmarket wine bars and classy cocktail joints, whilst Highgate has a huge choice of traditional pubs.
 

Shopping in North London

North London isn’t the go-to destination for high-end shopping, but there are plenty of quirky boutiques and independent shops that are great for picking up unique pieces for your home.

Camden Passage is a car-free street in Islington, filled with antique, vintage and contemporary shops with over 350 retailers to choose from. You’re sure to find something unique there, as in Upper Street, which is the main shopping street in Islington. If you love high street shopping, Angel Central (formerly known as the N1 Shopping Centre), has everything you need.
 

Schools in North London

North London is the ideal choice for families looking to buy a new home, thanks to an abundance of highly-rated schools in the area. Independent schools include the North London Collegiate School, a day school for girls which was founded in 1850, and North London Grammar School, rated as ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted. There are also excellent state secondary schools in North London, as well as a wide range of choices for primary education.

There are also well-regarded universities within North London, notably the London Metropolitan University, which was formed when the separate institutions of the University of North London and London Guildhall University merged in 2002.
 

Transport in North London

North London is conveniently located for transport options. The Underground serves the north of London particularly well, with the Northern, Central, District, Piccadilly and Victoria lines all serving stations in the area. Of course, there are good bus links all over London as well, but for living close to a tube station, you can’t beat North London.
 
<< Back to all areas