Unusual Islington – a walking tour
Discover the hidden gems that make this corner of London so unique

Wednesday May 28th 11:00 - 13:00
Join qualified local guide Nigel Smith for a captivating and surprising journey through the charming streets of Islington.
This two-hour walking tour is designed to unveil the area’s rich and often overlooked history, showcasing the intriguing stories and quirky details that make this corner of London so unique.
Just a stone’s throw from bustling Upper Street we’ll delve into the hidden alleyways, secret gardens and architectural oddities that even locals might miss. You’ll uncover tales of radical politicians, ghostly goings-on and the philanthropists whose generosity more than 600 years ago is still enjoyed today. Strolling through serene squares and peaceful backstreets you’ll discover that Islington is a lot more unusual than you might think…
This tour is perfect for anyone curious about London’s lesser-known stories, whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor. Prepare to be surprised, entertained, and enlightened as we uncover the unusual and captivating history of Islington.
The tour lasts approximately two hours, starts outside Angel Station and ends at Islington Town Hall on Upper Street.
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Clerkenwell & Islington Guides are the Mayor of Islington’s Official Guides.
All of the guides have completed a rigorous year of training that provides the guide with an in depth knowledge of the history of the Borough, along with the skills needed to guide a range of groups
They offer a comprehensive range of guided walks, both public walks and private walks.
About festival week events
We will be hosting a run of festival weeks and events curated by our partners big and small. Each week will see workshops, talks, walks, and cultural activities taking place in and around our pop-up Visitors Centre at 80 Mortimer Street.
For an up to date list of Festival weeks, please visit:Â nationalparkcity.london/events
Contact Louis Rutherford on louis.rutherford@nationalparkcity.org for more details on each Festival Week or if you would like to discuss hosting your own event.
more walking festival events

A Weekend of Wildness on Screen: London Nature Films Festival
What made this festival so special wasn’t just the storytelling — it was the gathering. Filmmakers, campaigners, walkers, foragers, gardeners, policy-shapers and pavement-crack gazers all under one roof, sipping foraged tea and vegan curry, sharing questions and possibilities.

Festival Week: London Climate Action Week
Dates: 21st – 29th June
One of the world’s largest independent climate-change events.

Festival Week: Grow Urban Festival
Dates: 7th – 15th June
The grassroots festival promoting greening and growing across London.

Festival Week: Repair Week
Dates: 3rd – 9th March
The collaborative repair and reuse festival helping divert your pre-loved items from landfill.

Festival Week: Happier Outdoors
Dates: 7th – 16th April
10 days of nature, health and happiness in Greater London – back for a second year!

