Islington Oasis
Submitted: November 8, 2011
Stayed: September 2011
My sister and I spent a glorious week here in the midst of a heat wave in the fall. The split-level flat is imaginatively designed and colourfully decorated by the owner, Jenny, who lives there most of the time and whose library, CD collection, art and cookbooks reflect a love of travel and Latin culture. The main bedroom is light-filled and lovely and the queen-sized bed is comfortable, likewise a more spartan pull-out mattress on the floor in the front room; the kitchen/dining room excellent for cooking and entertaining. The lush backyard planted with bamboo, lavender, herbs and flowers was as perfect a setting for morning coffee as for an early evening glass of wine.
Nearby, the street stalls of Chapel Market, the spiffy Waitrose supermarket, Ottolenghi take-out, Paul's patisserie and Steve Hatt's Fishmongers made it easy and fun for us to put together a celebratory dinner for ten. Alternatively, there are restaurants of all sorts within walking distance, including highly rated Moro in Exmouth Market where we had a memorable meal.
Despite its central location, the flat itself is tucked away on a quiet, pretty street. Amazing that such a tranquil spot exists so close to major traffic hubs of Angel and King's Cross. Buses and tube station connections abound, and taxis are easy to find. In fine weather, the opportunities for walking are plentiful. A short stroll north connects to the antique shops of Camden Passage and to London’s extensive canal system. Westward, one can meander through pleasant streets and historic St. George’s Gardens to Tavistock Square (check out the Gandhi Memorial at the centre), and south to the British Museum in half an hour. Alternatively, head south through historic neighbourhoods (see medieval St. John's Gate, St. Bartholomew-the-Great Church, Smithfield Market, Postman's Park and St. Paul's Cathedral on the way) to reach Millennium Bridge and the Thames in under an hour. I would recommend this flat to travellers seeking discovery, comfort and repose in central London.
Recommended for:
Age 55+,
Girls Getaway,
Tourists without a Car,
Sightseeing,
Families with Teenagers,
Romantic Getaway
Helpful votes: 2/2
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