With its beautiful and bold combination of a lively social scene, fashion, industry and multicultural hangouts, North London has become a perfect location for all dreaming about living in London.
Loaded with its cosmopolitan vibe, North London is home to over 1.4 million residents. From its vast markets to newly rejuvenated parks, nightlife and restaurants (pre-COVID), North London has a lot to offer along with its rich history.
Let’s uncover the beauty and benefits of North London in detail.
The History of North London
It is an informally and indistinctly defined area of London that covers the location of the capital lying north of the River Thames. On the border of the City of London financial district, North London extends from Finsbury and Clerkenwell to the boundary of Greater London with Hertfordshire.
The first northern district was developed in the Soke of Cripplegate in the early 12th century. However, London’s growth was slower beyond its Roman northern gates compared to other directions because the roads through these gates were less connected to other parts of the country. Marshy ground north of the wall was also the reason for less development in the area all those years ago.
The communities to be developed in North London were almost entirely rural until the Victorian period. These parts were then grouped into an area named “Finsbury”, which still stands today.
The 19th century has brought revolution at the time of Regent’s Canal in Islington, and St Pancras stimulated London’s northerly expansion. The development of the railway network enabled urbanisation encouraging people to travel and promoting economic growth.
This movement continued in the 20th century and was further reinforced by private transport. Shortly after the Second World War, the establishment of the Metropolitan Green Belt prevented London from expanding any further.
Living in North London
There are some genuinely fantastic and iconic places within North London, each loaded with stunning character and fabulous design.
Below are some artistic areas that have great charm and a lot to offer:
Finsbury
Centralised between the three areas of Haringey, Islington and Hackney, rationalised redevelopment plans have led to the emergence of overhauled & efficient cafes, restaurants, bars and eateries for its residents to enjoy.
The iconic “Finsbury Park” is a marvel of North London and covers 110 acres of space with tennis courts, football pitches and a boating lake.
Islington
Islington is an inner-city district within the area of Islington that has superb transport links, with underground transport connections connecting ten tube stops near the Islington area.
Islington also has many restaurants, bars and homeware shops with the upper street being a popular place giving its residents many options for nightlife (pre-COVID).
Camden
Renowned for its vibrant and eclectic markets, Camden in North London is a place where you can find everything from food to entertainment for all ages, especially younger people looking for “cool” hangout spots and atmospheres. Camden is considered a “trendy” location for sure and many see it as the best place to live in North London for young professionals wishing to have a lively social experience.
Because of the electric and vibrant markets, Camden has a wide variety of options to suit your budget if you are thinking of living in the area. The area boasts stylish apartments right up to large townhouses. The central location has made it ideal for commuting. It is only a 20-minute walk to Kings Cross, and a 5-minute tube journey will take you from the Northern line to Euston. Running alongside Camden is “Regents Park”, which means you’ll always enjoy a scenic running or dog-walking route whilst living in the area.
Hampstead
Hampstead is considered one of London’s most picturesque locations that is surrounded by the marvellous 320-hectare Hampstead Heath. Hampstead is the perfect spot to relax in a beautiful natural setting. You can run, walk the dog, or take some time for yourself as the park offers a lot for many people. From local hangouts to traditional pubs and bookstores, you can even shop for your groceries at Hampstead Community.
Night Life In North London
If clubs are your favourite spots to go, London has a wide range of nightspots to keep you entertained, from late-night venues in King’ Cross to live music in Camden. Whether you’re broken, heartfelt or somewhat excited, you’ll always find a spot in one of London’s top clubs. It is one of the most exciting and entertaining areas to party in London. The vibrant nightlife and the sparkling attractions in the North make this region the top choice of many people to live in. The best bars, cafes and restaurants add value to this excitement. If you want to save money, Finsbury Park can provide you with bargain offers. However, Blackstock Road houses several independent shops offering different quality products at varying budgets – located between Islington and Hackney.
From SuperClubs to more Intimate Venues, you’ll always find a place to do something in North London any day of the week.
There are many choices still even amid Coronavirus. Not sure where to go? Do not panic! We are going to share a list of some of the best nightlife location in North London for you to check out:
Roller Nation
This unique roller disco bar, located in Bruce Grove, Tottenham, houses a full-size roller rink and offers full roller disco nightclub nights calling themselves “A Nightclub on Wheels”. A great spot to check out if you are in North London!
They are currently operating but with changes to their events during the pandemic. You can read their COVID-19 response here.
Worth a mention – The Four Sisters
Boasting two cocktail menus, The Four Sisters describes its innovative and practical expertise when it comes to making the perfect cocktail. Located in Islington, North London, you will find The Four Sisters is one of the best cocktail bars in North London. Here, you will enjoy a premium cocktail in a cool and quirky setting.
The Four Sisters are currently closed due to the pandemic.
Camden Assembly
Camden Assembly, located in Chalk Farm, North London is touted as one of the bars in North, mixed with a quirky, exposed-brick and wood feel layout and feel.
The Camden Assembly are operating as usual. You can visit their website by clicking the link above.
More Noteworthy Mentions in North London
Get the crazy, very delicious hot dogs and burgers at Lucky Chip in Islington, formerly known as the Old Queens Head.
You’ll find many more fantastic bars, pubs or restaurants in North London like The Queen’s Primrose Hill, The Fellow, Humble Grape Islington, Heads + Tails and many others to suit a mirage of choice.
Things to do with the family in North London
North London has a lot to offer no matter if you are a student, employee, family or otherwise. While there are several beautiful spots for couples rekindling their love, there are just as many spots for those looking for an array of family-friendly attractions. You can easily explore the nearby markets, call on Arsenal’s Emirates or bask in the sun during summer. Camden Market, with more than 350 retailers, is renowned for its variety of shops and make it possible for you to buy a wide range of things. You can buy anything and everything from expensive suits to affordable, student budget clothing.
North London, as you can probably imagine, offers various food, fashion, art and cinema options for all of the family. You’ll find many attractions like London Zoo in Regent’s Park and the Jewish Museum in Albert Street to visit. North London is a great place to visit with your family for the day. You’ll always find something to do!
Below are some of the fantastic venues for you and your family to visit in North London:
Emirates Stadium: With the capacity of more than 60,000, Emirates Stadium and home of Arsenal is the main attraction for your football-loving Family in North London. You can book a self-guided stadium tour to see the history of the club. There is a lot on offer at the stadium. You can opt for a guided tour with some former Arsenal legends, such as Martin Keown, Ray Parlour or Lee Dixon.
Alexandra Palace: Alexandra Palace is a historic landmark, fabulous gig venue, a theatre, an exhibition centre, an ice rink and a park with staggering, panoramic views. Just a few reasons why people of all ages love Alexandra Palace located in Alexandra Palace Way, North London.
Tottenham Green Market: Tottenham Green offers fantastic deals for everyone. Mum and Dad can find beautiful and unique craft beers and the kids have an array of delicious foods to try!
At Tottenham Green Market you can get:
- Street food
- Artisan food
- Organic food
- Vegan food
- Locally Produced Food
- Local Bakers
- Local Craft Beer
- Locally Brewed Coffee
- Natural Wines
- Plants
- Attend Events
- Listen To Live Music
- Community Vibes
Every Sunday!
Freightliners City Farm: An opportunity to introduce your kids to the exclusive urban farm situated in Islington, North London. The farm holds several easily recognisable farmyard animals that the kids will love. The farm is free to attend. They do ask for donations to help keep them going and have other initiatives too during the pandemic.
They are still open and operating, but have changed how they are currently operating and allowing people into the farm. You can see Freightliners City Farm COVID-19 update here.
Granary Square: The next fantastic family place to visit in North London is Granary Square, located in King’s Cross just behind the train station.
Granary Square is a gigantic public attraction that all of the family can enjoy on a day out in North London. One of the most charming aspects of this location is its fountain display that lights up and is programmed to dance when you and your children run around them. Moreover, there are a lot of cafes and restaurants to enjoy a delicious lunch and hot chocolate when you want to relax.
Bonus tip: Do not forget to bring your towels and change of clothes!
Healthcare Options In North London
Moving onto healthcare, North London boasts several facilitates with world-class health care services. This is true for orthodox healthcare as well as natural, alternative healthcare solutions.
Some of the top healthcare facilities can be seen on the map below; links are also available below.
Priory Hospital North London
Addiction Rehabilitation Centre
Grovelands House, The Bourne, London N14 6RA
Website: https://www.priorygroup.com/locations/priory-hospital-north-london
Four Seasons Health Care
Assisted living residence
Sunbridge Care Home, 108 Hickory Cl, London N9 7PZ
Website: https://www.fshc.co.uk/
Priory Hospital Enfield
Mental Health Services
15 Church St, Edmonton, London N9 9DY
Website: https://www.priorygroup.com/nhs/locations/priory-hospital-enfield
North Middlesex University Hospital
General hospital
Sterling Way, London N18 1QX
Website: http://www.northmid.nhs.uk/
Optegra Eye Hospital North London
Lasik surgeon
Unit 6, The Technology Park, Colindeep Lane, London NW9 6BX
Website: https://www.optegra.com/hospitals-and-clinics/optegra-eye-hospital-north-london
Sutherland House
Clinic
1A Ashbourne Ave, London NW11 0DP
Website: https://sutherlandhouse.life/
Highgate Private Hospital
Private hospital
17-19 View Rd, Highgate, London N6 4DJ
Website: https://www.highgatehospital.co.uk/
Haelan Clinic
Clinic
41 The Broadway, Crouch End, London N8 8DT
Website: http://www.haelanclinic.co.uk/
St Ann’s Hospital
Psychiatric hospital
St Ann’s Rd, London N15 3TH
Website: http://www.beh-mht.nhs.uk/
Natural Health Chiropractic
Chiropractor
5a Heath St, Hampstead, London NW3 6TP
Website: https://www.naturalhealthchiro.co.uk/
Royal Free Hospital
General hospital
Pond St, Hampstead, London NW3 2QG
Website: http://www.royalfree.nhs.uk/
North London Partners in Health and Care PMO
Medical centre
5th floor, 5 Pancras Square, Kings Cross, London N1C 4AG
Website: https://www.northlondonpartners.org.uk/
Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust
Mental Health Services
350 Euston Rd, Fitzrovia, London NW1 3AX
Website: http://www.cnwl.nhs.uk/
Friends of the Royal London Hospital for Integrated Medicine
Non-profit organisation
60 Great Ormond St, Holborn, London WC1N 3HR
Website: http://www.friendsrlhim.org/
BMI The London Independent Hospital
Private hospital
1 Beaumont Square, Stepney, London E1 4NL
Website: http://www.bmihealthcare.co.uk/hospitals/bmi-the-london-independent-hospital
Transport in North London
As you know, North London is a highly-populated area, which naturally leads to congested road networks. With a growing population, you can imagine how the situation will get even worse.
To help with this congestion, and to make life easier for yourself within the capital, using public and local transport, such as buses, taxis, Uber’s and tubes will be easier than trying to drive yourself.
Specific bus lanes are used by the buses to avoid congestion. The underground links the city and makes it much easier for you to get around. There are almost 27 stations on the Victoria, Northern, Piccadilly and Central lines.
So, there is a quick overview of North London. We hope you got a lot from this article, especially if you are living in or planning to move to North London.
