Gisla’s hill. Ever heard of it? That is what Islington was originally called. It is an inner-city area of North London. Today we are going to explore Islington. It is a place with a rich history and vibrant culture.
Islington’s story begins way back with the Saxons. They named it Giseldone. Later, it became Gislandune. This name transformed over time to Isledon. The modern form, Islington, arose in the 17th century.
In medieval times, Islington was mainly rural. The Great North Road passed through. This road connected Aldersgate to Highgate Hill. The Angel area defined the village’s extent. Cattle drovers used Liverpool Road. They rested their animals there before going to Smithfield. Pens and sheds lined the road for the animals.
Let us talk about water. Islington’s hill supplied London with water. Springs at the foot of the hill in Finsbury were the first sources. Sadler’s Wells, London Spa and Clerkenwell were included.
The New River was built in the 17th century. It brought fresh water from Hertfordshire. Sir Hugh Myddelton opened it in 1613. His statue stands where Upper Street meets Essex Road.
The Regent’s Canal also passes through Islington. An 886-metre tunnel runs beneath. Barges had to be walked through it. There was no towpath in the tunnel.
Islington became known for its market gardens. The water supply helped grow vegetables. Londoners visited for a rural escape. Public houses sprung up. They offered tea gardens and activities. Archery and skittle alleys were popular. By the 18th century, music and dancing were added.
Many music halls and theatres were established. Collins’s Music Hall was one of them. It hosted Marie Lloyd and George Robey.
The Royal Agricultural Hall was built in 1862. It was a large exhibition site. It held up to 50000 people.
Housing expanded greatly in the 19th century. The population boomed. Horse-drawn omnibuses helped this growth. Large houses attracted clerks and professionals. Poor people were displaced from inner London. They settled in Islington.
World War II caused much damage. After the war, council housing was built. From the 1960s, middle-class families rediscovered Georgian terraces. The area became fashionable. Islington is known as the spiritual home of Britain’s left-wing intelligentsia.
Islington High Street is about 500 metres long. It goes from Pentonville Road to Islington Green. The Angel Inn gave its name to the area. The Peacock Inn dates from 1564.
Upper Street is Islington’s main shopping street. St Mary’s Church is located there. Islington remains a diverse district. It has private houses and social housing.
Islington has appeared extensively in modern English literature. Charles Dickens set scenes in Islington. Douglas Adams lived in Arlington Avenue. Nick Hornby’s novels are set in Islington.
So as we finish our tour, remember Islington’s journey. From a Saxon hill to a modern urban center.