A guide to Angel: Where to live, eat, and unwind
Angel is one of London’s rare gems – a neighbourhood that balances city buzz with village charm. Located in the heart of Islington, it sits between the edge of Camden and the creativity of Shoreditch, offering a calmer, more curated slice of city life.
With its leafy streets, stylish energy, and strong sense of community, it feels both effortlessly cool and unmistakably liveable – the kind of place where London living just makes sense.
Where is Angel?
Angel is on the northern edge of Central London and lies within Zone 1. While technically part of Islington, it has a distinct identity all its own. Think elegant Georgian townhouses, cosy cafés, and one of the most walkable high streets in London. Plus, you’re minutes from King’s Cross, Old Street, Camden, and beyond.
Transport links
Angel’s central location makes it a commuter dream. Whether you’re travelling by Tube, bus, or train, you’ll find getting anywhere in London fast and easy.
Tube
Angel Station (Northern line, Bank branch): Direct connections to Bank, London Bridge, King’s Cross, and Clapham.
Fun fact: Angel boasts the longest escalators in London, stretching 200 feet (61 metres). Instagram-worthy, and slightly intimidating.
Buses
Angel is a major bus hub, with routes linking you to key parts of London, including:
Central London: Oxford Circus and Holborn.
North London: Highbury and Archway.
East London: Hackney and Shoreditch.
Popular routes: 38, 73, 205, 341, 476.
Rail access
While Angel doesn’t have a mainline rail station, you're a short bus or Tube ride from major hubs:
Old Street Station:
Underground: Northern Line (Bank branch).
National Rail: Great Northern services to Welwyn Garden City, Hertford, and more.
Airport access: Via Liverpool Street for Stansted Express.
King’s Cross St Pancras:
Underground: Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, and Victoria.
National Rail & Eurostar: Services across the UK and Europe (Leeds, Edinburgh, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam).
Local universities and schools
Angel is ideally located for students, with quick links to several top universities and schools – many of them within walking distance.
Walking distance:
City, University of London – 10 minutes
Paris Dauphine University (London campus) – 5 minutes
The Courtauld Institute of Art – 10 minutes
Under 25 minutes by public transport:
University College London (UCL)
King’s College London
London School of Economics
London Metropolitan University (Holloway Campus)
pointblank Music School
What to do in Angel
Explore Chapel Market
A local institution for over 150 years, this bustling street market sells everything from fresh produce and fish to homeware and vintage clothes. Stop by Le Petit Village for a flat white while you browse.
Catch a show
Almeida Theatre
One of London’s most respected small theatres. Look out for West End-bound productions and £5 tickets for under-25s.
King’s Head Theatre
A progressive space championing emerging talent, with shows ranging from musicals to comedy and drag.
Watch a film
Screen on the Green (Everyman Cinemas)
A retro-style cinema showing new releases, with plush seating, cocktails, and student discounts.
Take a stroll along Regent’s Canal
Winding quietly behind Angel’s busy streets, Regent’s Canal offers a peaceful escape with waterside walks, moored houseboats, and cafés tucked into old towpaths. Start at Islington Tunnel and follow the path east to Victoria Park or west toward Camden – it’s one of London’s most scenic hidden routes.
Unwind in Duncan Terrace Gardens
Tucked just behind Upper Street, this leafy, quietly elegant garden is one of Angel’s best-kept secrets. With historic trees, and a calm, contemplative vibe, it’s the perfect spot for a lunchtime break or a peaceful pause between city adventures.
Coffee shops
The Otto Man
Half-barbershop, half-café – come for the haircut, stay for the coffee.
Redemption Roasters
Coffee with a cause. This stylish café trains ex-offenders as baristas and serves seriously good brews.
Mercer & Co
A Chapel Market favourite for salt beef sandwiches and a comforting weekend brunch.
Le Petit Village
A humble stand serving solid coffee, cheese toasties, and baguettes – all at student-friendly prices.
Where to dine
Ottolenghi Angel
The flagship deli from chef Yotam Ottolenghi. Known for its vibrant sharing plates and colourful Mediterranean salads – perfect for brunch or dinner.
La Sacre Coeur
A cosy French bistro with poster-covered walls and classic dishes like boeuf bourguignon and crème brûlée.
Mem & Laz
A charming Mediterranean brasserie with a standout mezze selection and vegan options.
La Divina
Tucked away on Upper Street, this laidback spot does quality pizza, pasta, and al fresco dining.
Humble Grape
Wine lovers, rejoice. This wine bar-restaurant hybrid serves over 400 wines, with regular tastings and seasonal small plates.
Brother Marcus
Rustic, relaxed, and delicious. A family-run Mediterranean brunch favourite.
The Breakfast Club
Tucked into Camden Passage, this retro hangout delivers epic English and American breakfasts. Expect queues – and worth the wait.
Fashion
Angel’s retail scene is a great mix of high street staples and indie gems. Hotspots include:
SirPlus
Sustainable menswear with standout Nehru jackets, chore coats, and contemporary tailoring.
Magpie Vintage
From 1940s workwear to bold 70s finds, this vintage shop also upcycles for the eco-conscious shopper.
Camden Passage Antique Market
The go-to for retro clothes, vinyl, antiques, and collectibles. A must-visit for treasure hunters.
Food shopping
Avoman
High-quality fruit and veg and acai bowls in a beautifully curated space. A must-visit for fresh produce.
Le Coq Epicier
A gourmet French grocery for all your charcuterie, cheese, pastry, and wine needs.
Local pubs
Fox on the Green
Lively and welcoming with great food, monthly comedy nights, DJs, and a dog-friendly vibe.
The Camden Head
A classic Victorian-style pub with outdoor seating and regular live comedy on Camden Walk.
A little about us
With unbeatable transport links, access to top universities, and a creative, independent spirit, Angel is a smart and stylish base for students and young professionals alike.
Looking for a student home that puts you in the heart of it all? Our apartments near Angel offer a private, all-inclusive way to live, with extras like 24/7 concierge, on-site gyms, stylish interiors, and weekly cleaning.
If you have any questions or need a hand with your accommodation search, feel free to get in touch – we’re always happy to help.
