Highbury and Islington area guide

Redemption Roaster- You can find it at 96 – 98 Islington High Street, Angel London N1 8EG. It is an institution in London and is well known for its home-roasted beans and delicious coffees. Pop by to get your caffeine fix and a pastry. Make sure to sign up to get your discounts and collect your points. This is the perfect spot to start your day with a caffeine boost and a sweet treat.

Highbury Arts Club is not only a cafe but also a creative hub. Enjoy your coffee while surrounded by local art and a welcoming atmosphere. Keep an eye on their website for tickets to pop-up events and workshops that might be of interest to you.

Sawyer & Gray offers a relaxed ambiance and a delicious brunch menu. This charming cafe in Highbury is known for its friendly service and mouthwatering breakfast options. We can’t recommend the breakfast hash enough! Plus we love their no laptop rule – it means this is the perfect spot to get a break from essays!

Homeboy is a bar in Islington run with ‘modern Irish hospitality’. Sip on crafted beers and cocktails and get stuck into their spud lunch or live music nights in a fun and buzzy pub – Homeboy is always a really fun a night out with friends.

The Alwyne Castle is a traditional pub in Islington, you will find a wide offering  of selection of craft + draught beers, ales, and hearty pub food. It's a great spot to relax and enjoy a pint after a long day. This is one of the best beer gardens in London for a long sunny afternoon at the pub.

Simmons Bar is a quirky and eclectic venue in Angel, known for its vibrant atmosphere and affordable drinks – famously the best happy hour in London. With retro decor and a lively crowd, it's the ideal place to dance the night away, and drink your cocktails from a teacup?

The Compton Arms is a charming, traditional pub tucked away in Islington. Book in for a cosy afternoon with friends in this welcoming atmosphere and amazing selection of drinks, it's a favourite among locals. The food here is amazing too - the perfect date spot! 

The Famous Cock Tavern is a historic pub that has a huge range of beers and cask ales. Enjoy a pint in the beer garden and catch major sporting events in the extensive pub garden too.

The Drapers Arms is a gastropub in Islington, renowned for its delicious food and extensive wine list. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed meal with friends, it is always reliable and has a great atmosphere.

Le Mercury is a popular French restaurant in Islington, known for its excellent value and romantic ambiance. Enjoy classic French dishes at welcoming affordable prices in this charming bistro. Bon apetite!

Bellanger is an elegant brasserie in Islington, serving delicious Alsatian cuisine in a beautiful Art Deco setting. Indulge in their famous tarte flambée and schnitzels. Chef’s kiss!

Trullo is a renowned Italian restaurant in Highbury, offering seasonal dishes made with the finest ingredients. There a few things Trullo has in abundance - rustic charm and mouthwatering food, it’s a must-visit for any food lover. We do recommend booking a table ahead of time

Football fans won't want to miss the Emirates Stadium Tour, where you can explore behind the scenes of Arsenal Football Club's iconic stadium. Get a glimpse into the club's rich history and heritage and even set foot onto the pitch. Students get discounted tickets – so keep an eye out!

Breakin’ is one of the most immersive escape rooms in London – a great day out with friends if you are looking to do something a bit different. Yeah, it might be a bit old school – but it is fun!

Screen on the Green is a historic cinema in Islington, showing a mix of mainstream and independent films. Enjoy the latest blockbusters or timeless classics in this iconic venue. Share a pizza and cocktails with friends.

Highbury Fields is a beautiful park in the heart of Highbury, offering plenty of green space for picnics, sports, and walks. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Take a book and a blanket for an afternoon relaxing.

Islington Green is a small but peaceful oasis in the midst of the hectic Upper Street. Chill on the grass or enjoy a coffee from one of the nearby cafes while watching the world go by.

Gillespie Park is a hidden gem in Islington, featuring a nature reserve, orchard, and ecological centre. Explore the walking trails and discover the local wildlife in this tranquil urban oasis. The perfect wholesome hangover activity if you ask us.

The Estorik Collection of art  brings together some of the finest and most important works created by Italian artists during the first half of the twentieth century, and is Britain’s only museum devoted to modern Italian art. Book your ticket online and enjoy a morning of art.

The Old Red Lion Theatre is a renowned pub AND theatre in Islington, showcasing exciting new writing and innovative productions. Experience cutting-edge theatre in an intimate and welcoming setting – with a lovely draught beer!

Camden Passage is a picturesque pedestrian passage in Islington, lined with antique shops, boutiques, and cute cafes. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind gifts and items. Make sure to make a pit stop for some of the best brownies in the business!

Angel Central is a shopping and entertainment complex in the heart of Islington, featuring a wide range of shops, restaurants, and a huge cinema. Whatever you're shopping for you'll find it here. Your one stop shop!

Getting around Highbury and Islington is easy, thanks to its excellent transport links. The area is served by several Underground and Overground stations, including Highbury & Islington, Angel, and Holloway Road. The bus routes are also great in connecting to central London and beyond. Below you can see how close your Scape building is:

Scape Shoreditch – a fast 10 minute train.

Scape Kings Cross – 12 minutes on the Victoria Line.

Scape Mile End – 30 minutes on the tube.

Scape Wembley – 30 minutes on the tube.

Scape Canada Water – 30 minutes on the overground

Whether you're looking for a cosy cafe to study in, a lively bar to socialize with friends, or a beautiful park to relax in, Highbury and Islington offers it all. With its vibrant social scene, and diverse food joints, this North London neighbourhood is the perfect spot for exploring on a weekend as a student. So, why not make the most of everything that Highbury and Islington have to offer?