The famously nice north London neighbourhood that has been crowned the best place to live in the city

Postcode prestige is a never ending topic of discussion among Londoners. Does north or south reign supreme? Is east really that much better than west? You can learn to love wherever you live in the capital, but there’s no denying some areas are far trendier than others.

If ‘cool’ is the number one requirement for your next place to live, look south. Time Out recently named Camberwell the coolest of the capital’s neighbourhoods, thanks to its ‘young-at-heart vibe, the independent spirit [and its] multiculturalism’. You can explore Camberwell’s best bits here and see it in pictures here. 

In another ranking of London neighbourhoods, lifestyle guide Muddy Stilettos named Islington the hottest place to live in the capital right now. 

Muddy Stilettos called Islington a ‘buzzing area’ that ‘blends cool city vibes with a laid-back village feel’. That cosy village feel is thanks to the Regent’s Canal, New River, and other green spaces, as well as plenty of independent businesses and neighbourhood events.

Some of Time Out’s favourite things in Islington include restaurants Trullo, Farang and FKA Black Axe Mangal, shops like Aria, Nourished Communities and FARA Charity Shop and cultural hotspots like Union Chapel and Almeida Theatre. 

Obviously, when you’re living (rather than just visiting) somewhere, there are more practical things to think about, too. Muddy Stilettos points out that Islington is a particularly great area for families. It’s a prime spot for top schools like St Mary Magdalene Academy for primary age kids, City of London Academy Islington for high schoolers or City of London School for Girls, North Bridge House if you want to go private. It’s also an excellent location for commuting, with the Northern line, Victoria line and Overground all at your service at various local stations. 

All that considered, Islington isn’t cheap. The average property in Islington will set you back around £1.15 million, but flats are slightly more affordable at an average cost of £600,000. When it comes to renting, you can expect an average two-bed flat in the area to be least £2,300 a month. 

See all 9 of the areas named London’s best places to live by Muddy Stilettos here. 

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