Car Hire Holloway

Holloway doesn’t draw the spotlight like its neighbours Camden and Islington but that’s part of its appeal. It’s a working patch of North London where lived-in streets meet small green spaces and unexpected corners among which 41,000 people reside. The A1 runs straight through, offering easy access whether you’re coming in from the North Circular or heading out of the city. May through early October brings the best weather for walking, while winter leaves pavements damp and grey.

Attractions In Holloway

What stands out in Holloway isn’t one major attraction but a thread of smaller places. A quiet park, a mural half-hidden by trees, a street you nearly miss—they all piece together the feel of the area.

Caledonian Park

The park on Market Road centres around a striking Victorian clock tower. Once part of the Metropolitan Cattle Market, it now watches over open grass, picnic benches and quiet dog walkers.

Open daily from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm, it’s the sort of place where you can pause mid-errand or climb the tower for a surprisingly broad view of the city. We stayed longer than we planned.

Gillespie Park

A popular choice for those living in Highbury, Gillespie Park is tucked behind residential streets and the railway line. It’s a nature reserve rather than a manicured garden, with footpaths winding through native plants, bird hides and wildflower patches.

We followed a short trail to the Ecology Centre, where children were gathered around a table of beetles and magnifying glasses. The calm here is rare for inner London.

Tomb Of Karl Marx

While driving in from Highgate, we stopped at Highgate Cemetery. The walk through the older graves is leafy and still, until you reach the large stone bust of Marx.

The site is open daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Whether or not you’re drawn by the politics, the surrounding grounds are worth the visit for their quiet beauty and wandering paths.

Banksy Tree Mural

We almost missed it. Near Christie Court on Hornsey Road, a bare tree trunk has been painted with a splash of green spray, giving the illusion of a leafy crown. It’s a clever use of shape and space.

We were on foot from Finsbury Park and the mural appeared suddenly between buildings. It isn’t a destination in itself but it changes the tone of the street.

Topiary Cats And Squirrel

At 93 Balfour Road, a hedge has been shaped into a pair of seated cats and a bushy squirrel. Locals say patting the cat brings luck. We did, just in case. There’s no signage or explanation. It’s simply part of the neighbourhood and that’s what makes it charming.

Kinloch Gardens

Kinloch Gardens is a neighbourhood park with swings, benches and a small play area. On the day we visited, parents watched from the edges while children raced across the climbing frame.

For drivers coming from Kentish Town, it’s a useful place to stop and stretch your legs, especially if you’ve got children in tow.

West Reservoir Centre

Approaching from Tufnell Park, we arrived just as the centre opened. The stillness of the reservoir made the paddleboarders look as if they were floating in air.

The centre offers sailing, swimming and kayaking. It’s open weekdays from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm and from 8:00 am on weekends. There’s a small café inside too, with hot drinks and waterside views.

clueQuest – The Live Escape Game

On Caledonian Road, clueQuest combines puzzle-solving with theatrical design. The staff ease you into character and the rooms are filled with clever tricks and immersive touches. We booked an evening slot (open daily until 10:30 pm) and the hour inside flew by. You’ll likely want a drink afterwards to compare notes on what you missed.

Victoria Miro

During a visit to Archway, we stopped at Victoria Miro. The gallery is light-filled and peaceful, tucked away off Wharf Road near the canal. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Exhibitions rotate regularly but the space itself—all concrete, glass and stillness—is always worth the trip.

Newington Green

Newington Green isn’t far from Holloway but it feels distinct. It’s a bit more open, with cafés on every corner and benches under broad trees. We passed through just after lunch and sat with coffee while dogs chased pigeons across the grass. It’s open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Where To Pause In Holloway

For a quick bite, Gözleme House on Green Lanes serves freshly made Turkish flatbreads filled with spinach, cheese or meat. It’s simple, affordable and best enjoyed hot from the grill. If you’re after a proper coffee, Vagabond N7 on Holloway Road delivers strong brews in a stripped-back setting. It’s small but reliable. For overnight stays, Queens Hotel on Anson Road offers basic accommodation within walking distance of Tufnell Park Station. It’s a practical option with easy links to the rest of London.