5 great things about living in Islington

We all know that Islington is a great place to live, but what makes it really stand out from other parts of London?

1. It's quite central, you're still in zone 2, which reduced the Oyster damage, but it has so many residential areas that it doesn't feel like living in the inner city.

2. Transport links are second-to-none; wherever you are in the borough, you're within a short walk of the Piccadilly, Victoria or Northern Lines, as well as more buses than you could shake an organic baguette at. Which brings me on to...

3. Food and drink. If you like to dine out, whether you go for high-end cuisine, mid-range independents or cheap and cheerful chains, there are hundreds of restaurants to choose from. For those who prefer to economise, there are large supermarkets at all points of the compass, ranging from well-heeled Waitrose to money-saving Morrisson's.

For those who want to support local growers and try out artisan foods, there's also the Farmers' Market (voted best in London by Time Out) taking place every Sunday on Chapel Market. The borough is also crammed with independent delis and quirky cafes.

4. When it comes to shopping, we've already established that there's no need to leave the borough for almost any purchase. Upper Street has all the high street haunts you could need, and there are rumours that the only omission in Islington's retail offer - a bookshop - may soon by filled by Foyle's.

5. Art and Culture Islington is liberally stuffed with places to go and see bands, comedy, plays and fringe theatre. Where else would you find three pub theatres within walking distance of each other? (the Kings Head, Hen & Chickens and Old Red Lion). Add to that the Islington Academy with its clubs and gigs, the two cinemas, Screen on the Green and Vue, and there's barely any reason to venture into the West End!