A Family Friendly Day in Islington
Explore our neighbourhood
Located in the heart of Islington, right opposite the Green, we’re surrounded by a wealth of creative options for family days out, including plenty of child-friendly activities right the heart of London – minus the usual crowds.
School holidays, including half term breaks and sun-filled summers, provide the perfect opportunity to explore, whether you are playing tourist in your own city or visiting the capital from farther afield. A short hop on the tube from Tottenham Court Road, London Bridge or Oxford Street, Islington has an urban-village feel, complete with cafés, restaurants, shops, galleries, a busy market and a local museum, making it great for a family day out.
To Start the morning
Stop off for a morning hot chocolate or coffee, relaxed brasserie-style, here at Bellanger before taking a stroll around the neighbourhood with the family. Nearby, the Little Angel Theatre, located in a former temperance hall, is known for its nostalgic puppet shows, miniature travelling circus and interactive workshops. Cinema fans will enjoy catching a film at Screen on the Green (which also offers toddler and baby-friendly showings) while renowned theatre Sadler’s Wells serves up world-class dance performances to suit all tastes. Afterwards, head for a homemade ice cream at Udderlicious on Upper Street – perfectly located given that the neighbourhood was once famed for its dairy herds and supplied much of the capital with its butter, cream and milk during the nineteenth century.
Afternoon entertainment
Colourful and vibrant, Islington’s Chapel Market, open daily except Mondays, has been serving our local community for more than 150 years, featuring stalls laden with fruit and veg, gifts and toys, perfect for children and curious teens. For a dose of the countryside in the city, head to Freightliner’s City Farm, a community green space where children can meet animals including cows, sheep, goats and poultry in a working farm environment. We’re also close to Regent’s Canal, perfect for a water-side walk and for swan and duck spotting. Don’t miss Word on the Water – The London Bookbarge – a floating bookstore moored on Regent’s Canal towpath at King’s Cross.
For a dose of culture, the neighboured has its own museum – the Islington Museum – dedicated to the history of the borough and to celebrating its cultural contribution to the capital. Look out for its regular programme of talks, exhibitions and special events. Also in the area, the Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art features the country’s only gallery devoted to contemporary Italian paintings and photography.
An early evening bite to eat
Round off a visit to the area with a relaxed late lunch or early supper at Bellanger. Our dedicated children’s menu is perfect for burgeoning appetites, and includes favourites such as linguine with tomato sauce, chicken escalope or fishcake and salad. There’s also a wide selection of brasserie classics, plus our affordable Prix Fixe (£19.95 for two courses), with the option of adding a well-deserved glass of wine for an end of day unwind for busy parents.
With a terrace for warmer days and cosy banquette seating for chillier moments, plus relaxed all-day seasonal menus, we’re ready to welcome you to the neighbourhood.
