If you know where to look you can experience the beauty of London without spending a penny. And here at the BDC, we know exactly where.
If you know where to look you can experience the beauty of London without spending a penny.
And here at the BDC, we know exactly where.
Islington pulses with vibrant energy and creative spirit; from world-class art exhibitions to community festivals celebrating everything from canal culture to vegetables, our borough showcases the very best of London life.
Whether you’re seeking fun family adventures, a spot of the culture London has to offer, or ways to meet like-minded neighbours, Islington is sure to deliver. Our local guide unveils the incredible treasure trove of free things to do in Islington waiting to be enjoyed across the borough.
Art for All Ages
The Estorick Collection of Modern Italian Art transforms into a playground of creativity with their specially designed family programmes. Here is a rundown of what’s on offer:
Mini Marvels on Thursday 31st August welcomes little ones from 10am to 11am for an hour of artistic discovery tailored to young minds. These sessions are for children to learn the wonders of these Italian masterpieces through upbeat interactive storytelling and hands-on activities that make art accessible and exciting.
Family Art Day on Sunday 27st August extends the experience from 10am to 12pm, providing families with extended time to explore the collection together. These workshops encourage creativity while being surrounded by works from renowned artists.
Parents and children can take part in collaborative art projects inspired by the gallery’s permanent collection, creating lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for modern Italian artistry.
The Institute of Physics continues this artistic journey with Mimi’s Tiny Adventure, a captivating family exhibition running until Friday 29th August.
Open weekdays from 10am to 4pm, this interactive experience transforms scientific concepts into engaging adventures perfect for curious young minds. The exhibition combines visual storytelling with educational elements, making physics fun through playful exploration and discovery.
The Museum of Homelessness stands as a powerful testament to community resilience and social awareness. Having reopened on 17th April after serving as an emergency cold weather shelter during winter months, this unique institution offers profound insights into homelessness experiences through carefully curated exhibitions and community programmes.
Operating from April through November, the museum welcomes all visitors free of charge but you do have to book in advance.
Festival Fever
Summer reaches its crescendo on Sunday 7th September, transforming City Road Basin and Graham Street into a bustling celebration from 11am to 4pm.
This beloved annual event captures the essence of waterway culture with complimentary boat trips that offer unique perspectives of historic canal networks.
Live music flows through the air, craft stalls showcase local artisan talent, and street food vendors offer up tempting aromas creating that authentic festival atmosphere.
The event celebrates Islington’s maritime heritage and brings together diverse communities around shared love for the area and for this historic waterway.
Held at Whittington Park Community Centre shares the same Sunday 7th spotlight, celebrating local food production and community gardening from 11am to 4pm.
The showcase invites residents to display their flowers, fruits, vegetables, preserves, and garden art, with entries accepted between 11am – 11.30am. It’s all about creativity and gardening passion, so every entry is welcome, from perfectly polished produce to the wonderfully wonky.
Beyond the competition, the Grow Show offers a range of activities: including practical gardening workshops, African drumming performances, garden art demos, and informative ecology walks.
Community Connections
Demonstrating that community engagement knows no age boundaries through their inclusive programming. Their regular gatherings welcome everyone from teenagers seeking football sessions to older adults craving companionship at monthly park meetups.
Carers find essential support networks, while participants of all backgrounds discover new interests and forge meaningful friendships. Most sessions maintain free admission, removing financial barriers to social participation and personal growth.
Growing Together
Islington’s community gardens provide weekly opportunities for hands-on environmental stewardship and social connection. These beautiful green spaces function as outdoor classrooms where experienced gardeners share knowledge with newcomers, children learn about plant lifecycles, and neighbours collaborate on beautification projects.
St Jude’s Street Garden opens its gates every Thursday at 10am, welcoming volunteers to participate in essential gardening tasks while enjoying warm beverages and biscuits.
Olden Community Garden on Whistler Street also operates every Tuesday from 10am to 4pm.
Each garden has its own unique charm, but they all share the same purpose, which is giving people a place to relax, unwind and learn about nature. The gardens are a great example of sustainable urban living by giving locals peaceful retreats from the City’s bustle.
Your Next Adventure Awaits
From intimate art sessions to expansive festivals, from quiet garden workdays to lively canal celebrations and fun cultural days surround every corner. Book ahead where required, bring your enthusiasm, and prepare to discover the wonders of Islington.
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