Local area guide

Living in Barnsbury

Thinking about moving to Barnsbury? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools are like, transport connections and so much more.

Your guide to moving to Barnsbury

Why Barnsbury is a good place to live

Living in Barnsbury gives residents the perfect balance of London's rich history and exciting urban life. The area is an attractive escape from the bustling city, boasting beautiful Georgian squares and cozy, quieter streets. Known for its lovely converted houses from the mid-1800s, Barnsbury offers a charming village yet cosmopolitan feel. Despite being close to vibrant communities in N1, it has managed to retain its tranquillity. Its strategic location between Islington and King’s Cross is another major draw, with good public transport connections adding to the convenience. Food enthusiasts will especially appreciate the excellent dining options that Barnsbury offers, with a choice of cuisines from various parts of the world.

What's Barnsbury famous for?

Barnsbury is famous for several reasons. First, it's steeped in history, dating back to the Berners family from the Norman Conquest and later known for the dairy farms serving London's milk needs in the 18th century. Life in Barnsbury has seen many transformations over the centuries, giving the area its distinct character. It even once served as a stop for travelers heading north from London. This rich historical background can be felt in the architecture and layout of Barnsbury's streets. Icons such as former Prime Minister Tony Blair have also called this area home, adding to its fame.

Things to do in Barnsbury

Barnsbury offers a wide array of things to do. There's a myriad of dining options to explore, with restaurants offering dishes ranging from Turkish to French, Italian, and Spanish. For those who enjoy a good drink, the area houses rooftop bars and terraces, trendy cocktail spots, and traditional pubs. Culturally, Barnsbury has much to offer with the Almeida theatre and Sadler’s Wells, known for hosting plays and ballet performances respectively. For movie enthusiasts, catch the latest films at Vue cinema or enjoy arthouse films at Everyman cinema. Beyond indoor activities, Barnsbury provides the perfect atmosphere for leisurely walks, with its historical streets and Georgian architecture.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.

Properties currently for sale in Barnsbury

Whether you're looking to buy a family home or a beautiful apartment, we've got you covered.

Transport in Barnsbury

Find the nearest train stations and other transport links in Barnsbury.

Local connections

Caledonian Road & Barnsbury
National Rail
0.3 miles / 0.5 km
Angel
0.6 miles / 1.0 km
London Kings Cross
National Rail
0.7 miles / 1.1 km
London St Pancras (Intl)
National Rail
0.7 miles / 1.1 km
Caledonian Road
0.7 miles / 1.1 km
Highbury & Islington
0.7 miles / 1.1 km

Schools in Barnsbury

Discover local primary schools, secondary schools and sixth form colleges in Barnsbury.

Education in Barnsbury

St Andrew's (Barnsbury) Church of England Primary School
Ages: 4 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2019)
Thornhill Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
Blessed Sacrament RC Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2018)
The Bridge Integrated Learning Space
Ages: 7 - 19 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2023)
Vittoria Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2021)
Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School
Ages: 11 - 16 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2014)

Local pubs in Barnsbury

In partnership with
useyourlocal
  • Albion

    London N1

    The Albion is a Georgian gem left over from a time when Islington was fields and farmland and where the regulars would take afternoon walks out of the city to visit us.

  • Hemingford Arms

    London N1

    Built in 1855 the Hemingford Arms is of the oldest traditional pubs tucked away in Barnsbury. Its amazing floral display embraces you as you approach, the interior is full of personality and oozes atmosphere.

  • Drapers Arms

    London N1

    The Drapers Arms in Islington is a neighbourhood pub, with a garden and private dining room, and a determination to serve rewarding food and drink.