What's On In Islington
See a round-up of some of the activities and events and partner updates for this month organised by other organisations. Any queries, please contact the activity provider or organisation directly.
Let us know about any activities you'd like to include: communications@ageukislington.org.uk.
PARTNER EVENTS
Introduction to British Sign Language (BSL) Course
Mondays 6-8pm for eight weeks starting 5 October
Arachne Women’s Support, 13-15 Hercules Street, N7 6AT
Arachne Women’s Support is offering a free Introduction to British Sign Language course. This introductory course is perfect for anyone who wishes to learn the basics of British Sign Language, improve communication skills with the deaf community, or simply explore a new language. No prior experience is needed.
To register or for more information, email info@arachne.org.uk or call 020 7263 6261
Singing for Wellbeing Choir
Tuesday 6 October 5-6.15pm
London Met University, Holloway Campus, Room BEL1-02
Composting Workshops
Tuesdays 12–2pm starting 6th October for 3 weeks or
Saturdays 1–3pm starting 10th October for 3 weeks
Octopus Community Plant Nursery, Tufnell Park Road, N7 0PH (Behind McCall House)
Come along to learn more about composting. For more information, contact helena@octopuscommunities.org.uk or see the attached poster Composting Workshop
Nature Walks
All walks led by trained nature leaders.
Gentle Walks: Monday 7 Oct 11-1pm - Regent's Canal, Monday 21st Oct 11-1pm - Mudchute City Farm
Moderate Walk: Monday 14 Oct 12-4pm - Regent’s Park Frieze Sculpture
Booking is essential. Please email info@slt.org.uk or call 020 7713 9304
Dealing with Difficult Emotions
Thursday 8th October 7-9.30pm & Saturday 18th October 10.30am-1pm
Rigpa UK Tibetan Buddhist Centre, 330 Caledonian Road, N1 1BB
These free workshops offer practical strategies for responding to stress, anxiety, anger, and other difficult emotions, drawing on Buddhist teachings in an accessible and contemporary way. No previous experience of meditation or Buddhism is required.
Annual Community Party
Friday 9th October, 6.30–9.30pm
Elizabeth House Community Centre, 2 Hurlock Street, London N5 1ED
Expect dance performances, food, drinks, music, magic, poetry, face painting, art and JOY! We’ll have performances from members of our community; Jeremy Corbyn will say a few words, plus a spectacular Bhangra performance from Bhangra Dance London. As always, bring a dish to share, come with your friends and family, grab a drink, meet your neighbours and get dancing!
Call for further details: 020 7690 1300
Volunteer in the Parks
The Garden Classroom
Spa Fields: 9th October 11am-1pm - Meet on the picnic benches outside the park office.
New River Walk: 9th & 23rd October 11am-1pm - Meet at the pumphouse by the Lundy Walk entrance.
Whittington Park: 2nd October 11am-1pm - Meet at the park keeper's building
Caledonian Park: 9th October 11am-1pm - Meet at the Clock Tower
Help out with gardening tasks led by a Park Ranger. No experience is needed and all tools are provided. Please wear suitable clothes.
See The Garden Classroom website for more information.
Stuart Low Trust Events
Friday Evenings - Jean Stokes Community Centre, Caledonian Road, N1 0DX
Booking is essential. Please email info@slt.org.uk or call 020 7713 9304
9th October - Spooky Quiz Night with Bill
Join our Halloween-themed quiz night with prizes up for grabs.
23rd October - Glenn Bassett
Enjoy foot-tapping singalong songs from every era and maybe some original songs too.
Thursday 15th October 10am-12:30pm - Visit The Armourer’s Hall
Enjoy a trip to Armourer’s Hall, exploring the historic surroundings and learn about its history as a grade 2 listed building around since the 1300s.
Sunday 4th & 25th October 3.30-6pm - Philosophy ForumOld Diorama Arts Centre, Euston
Philosophy Forum
Join our Philosophy discussion group and ponder the greater questions in life. Booking for the whole term is essential. Please email info@slt.org.uk or call 020 7713 9304
Free, two-week Ixion Skills training programme
Apply by 12 October
Are you aged 19+, unemployed and living in London? This free training programme offers recognised City & Guilds qualifications, practical hospitality and employability skills, career development opportunities and the chance to secure interviews with potential employers.
Free Career Workshop
Wednesday 14 October, 1:30–3pm
Whittington Park Community Centre, Upper Hocking Hall, N19 4RS
Get practical support with your job search at this FREE career workshop, covering CVs, interview preparation, LinkedIn, smarter job search strategies and building confidence. Led by Career Strategist and Miri Elevates founder Miriam Owusu.
For local residents aged 18+, spaces are limited.
Contact them for more information.
Black History Month Networking Event
Wednesday 14 October, 4:30-7:30pm
BETTER SPACE, 127 FARRINGDON ROAD, LONDON, EC1R 3DA
Join us this Black History Month for an inspiring evening exploring the power of networking and how meaningful connections can create opportunities.
Whether you're considering a side hustle, launching a business, growing your professional network, or looking to connect with like-minded individuals, this event will provide practical insights, inspiration, and valuable networking opportunities. Hear from a panel of successful entrepreneurs as they share how networking has helped shape their journeys, opened doors to new opportunities, and supported their personal and professional growth.
Open to 18+ residents of Camden, Hackney and Islington.
Baby Item Swap
Friday 16 October 11am-1pm
The Peel, 3 Corners Centre, Northampton Road, EC1R 0HU
If you are in need of pre-loved baby/children's clothes, toys and books, come to this swap event for ages 0-8 years! Donations accepted from 1st October at The Peel or St Luke's. ***NO LARGE ITEMS OR ELECTRICALS PLEASE***
Harvest Meal for Hope - Everyone Welcome!
📅 Friday 16 October 2026
⏰ 5.00pm - 8.00pm(pop in any time!)
📍 Jean Stokes Community Centre, Carnoustie Drive, London N1 0DX
Join an evening of good food, community and connection at the Harvest Meal for Hope.
Whether you'd like to enjoy a free meal, meet new people, take part in activities, or simply spend time with others in the community, everyone is welcome.
Please share with friends, neighbours and anyone who may benefit from a warm meal and friendly company.
To book see the Church on the Corner Eventbrite page.
Apple Day
Sunday 18 October 12–4pm
Islington Ecology Centre, 191 Drayton Park, N5 1PH
The annual celebration of all things apples! Come and enjoy tasting heritage apple varieties as well as live music, stalls and crafts.
No need to book!
Movement + Breathwork Practice
Monday 19 October 2026, 1pm-2pm.
Jean Stokes Community Centre, Carnoustie Drive, London N1 0DX
Kala Ama is delivering a free Movement + Breathwork Practice session. The 45-minute session is designed to help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and all abilities and experience levels are welcome.
- Cost: Free
- Suitable for all abilities and experience levels
Tree Pit Planting
Friday 23 October 1-2pm
Whittington Education Centre, Whittington Hospital
Meet Local Author Lucy Whitman local author, who cared for her mother
living with dementia who will be visiting Whittington Hospital.
Experiences of Caring
— personal accounts from family carers.
— personal accounts from people living
with dementia.
See more Islington dementia-friendly activities on the Age UK Islington website.
Tree Pit Planting
Saturday 24 October 10:45am-2pm
Whittington Park Community Centre
Create pollinator-friendly tree pits and plant them together to contribute to the creation of 7.8km of pollinator pathways in North Islington.
For more information see the Octopus website.
SEND Club Islington
Monthly sessions; next one is Sunday 25th October, 12–1pm
Sobell Leisure Centre, Tollington Road, N7 7NY
The monthly sessions will focus on basketball. The sessions are tailored for children aged 8 to 17 years old who may be neurodivergent (including autism and ADHD), have a learning disability or visual impairment, or be D/deaf or hard of hearing.
Cost: £5.00 per participant, pay-as-you-go. Spaces are limited to 10 participants per session.
Please confirm your attendance on Spond. If you haven't received a notification, you can join via this link: https://spond.com/invite/LCNNX
For more information, follow this link Islington SEND Sports Club
Black History Month: In conversation with Author Mel Pennant
Tuesday 27 October 6:30-7:30pm
West Library, 107 Bridgeman Road, N1 1BD
Join author Mel Pennant for a fascinating talk about her latest novel, Miss Hortense and the Last Rites, the anticipated follow-up to the award-nominated ‘A Murder for Miss Hortense’. In this gripping mystery, retired Jamaican nurse turned amateur sleuth Miss Hortense races to solve a notorious gangster’s murder before becoming the next victim. Hear Mel Pennant discuss her inspiration, writing journey and the return of one of crime fiction’s most compelling new detectives.
No need to book!
Tree Walk
Wednesday 28 October 2-3pm - Tree Walk
Islington Ecology Centre, 191 Drayton Park, N5 1PH
Join one of Islington's Tree Officers on this guided walk around Gillespie Park.
No need to book!
Black History Month: Go Africa Open Book Pop Up
Wednesday 28 October 11am-7pm
Islington Central Library, 2 Fieldway Crescent, N5 1PF
In partnership with Islington Libraries, the Go Africa Takeover will host a special Open Book day, bringing together renowned authors and the community to celebrate Black literature, storytelling and the written word.
For more information, contact Islington Central Library on 020 7527 6900 or
centrallending.lib@islington.gov.uk
Health & History Walk: Elthorne Park
Friday 30 October 11am
Meet at 20 Hazelville Road, N19 3LP (outside Islington Boxing Club)
Led by Islington Guided Walks. Gentle-paced walks through green spaces with expert local history guides.
For more information, see the Islington Life website.
Halloween Party
Saturday, 31st October 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Highbury Roundhouse, Main Hall
71 Ronalds Road, Highbury, London N5 1XB
Join us for a spooktacular Halloween Party filled with music, dancing, exciting games and a delicious BBQ! Dress in your scariest costume and enter our spooky costume competition. A fantastic evening of Halloween fun for children, adults and families!
£5 per person (adults and children).
To book: Email admin@highbury-roundhouse.org.uk
Remembrance Day
Wednesday, 11th November 2026 | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Highbury Roundhouse Café
71 Ronalds Road, Highbury, London N5 1XB
Join us for a special Remembrance Day gathering for the Over 55s. Come together to honour and remember those who served, with candle lighting, remembrance poppies and a delicious lunch. An afternoon of reflection, friendship and community togetherness.
£4 per person.
To book: Email admin@highbury-roundhouse.org.uk
Health and Nature Walks
Friday 6 November, 10–11am (first Friday of the month)
Islington Ecology Centre, Gillespie Park, 191 Drayton Park, N5 1PH
A gentle stroll around the reserve, noticing plants, birds and nature as we go. Free tea and coffee afterwards. All are welcome, dementia friendly. No need to book, just turn up!
For info: 020 7527 4374 / ecologycentre@islington.gov.uk
Disability Benefits and Financial Support for Older People
How does where we live shape our health and wellbeing?
📅 Monday 9 November 2026
🕛 12:00pm - 5:00pm
📍 Quentin Blake Centre for Illustration, Islington
🎟️ Free to attend
Join Evidence Islington (Evidence Islington | Islington Council ) and local partners for a free interactive event exploring three layers of place: home, neighbourhood, and the borough of Islington.
Through creative activities, workshops and interactive stalls, visitors can explore smart ideas for healthier small living spaces, create music and explore community, connection and belonging.
Activities begin at 2pm, but attendees are welcome from 12pm to explore the Quentin Blake Centre's illustration exhibitions free of charge before the event starts.
The event is for local Islington residents, housing charities and community groups, students, researchers, and anyone interested in health, wellbeing, and how it relates to place.
Book your free ticket here:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-power-of-place-how-where-you-live-shapes-your-health-tickets-1997152770699
Understanding Dementia: Awareness, Prevention and Further Support
If you'd like to go along, please let them know by emailing sumru@derman.org.uk or call Derman on 020 7613 5944.
People are welcome to go along without booking as well.
London LGBTQ+ Carers Peer-to-Peer Group
Sunday 1 November. 2-4pm
London Friend, 86 Caledonian Road, N1 9DN
A supportive space for LGBTQ+ unpaid carers to connect, share experiences and support one another. For more information, contact lgbtqlondoncarers@outlook.com
Introduction to Consent-Based Decision Making with Sociocracy
Thursday 19th November, 5-6pm
SPACE4, 113–115 Fonthill Road, London N4 3HH (black gate entrance, 2nd floor)
💷 £5 donation or deposit (refunded when you attend)
Intergenerational Christmas Party
Wednesday, 16th December 2026 | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Highbury Roundhouse, Main Hall
71 Ronalds Road, Highbury, London N5 1XB
Celebrate the festive season at our Intergenerational Christmas Party, bringing together our Over 55s and Youth Club members! Enjoy a delicious three-course Christmas meal, including a glass of wine or beer, festive cheer, laughter and wonderful community togetherness.
£10 per person.
To book: Email admin@highbury-roundhouse.org.uk
ONGOING PARTNER EVENTS
The Peel Parent Pop-in
First Friday of the month 11am-1pm
The Peel, 3 Corners Centre, Northampton Road, EC1R 0HU
Connect with other parents. Light refreshments, workshops, information and signposting. Creche available if needed. For more information, contact jeana@thepeel.org.uk
Park Run Every Saturday
Saturdays at 9am
Highbury Fields parkrun is a free 5k run/walk that happens every Saturday.
The Mum Hub
Mondays, 1:30pm to 2:30pm
Elizabeth House Community Centre, N5 1ED
The Mum Hub is a new weekly wellbeing and peer support group for mums led by a member of the Elizabeth House community. It provides a welcoming space to stretch and relax, connect with other mums, share experiences and focus on your wellbeing. Children aged 1-3 are welcome.
It costs £30/£35 per half-term membership. Free trial session available.
Booking is essential. Contact zoe.gardner@elizabeth-house.org.uk or call 020 7690 1300
Pet Food Bank
Tuesdays 10am–1pm
Mildmay Community Centre, Woodville Road, N16 8NA
If you are struggling financially to buy food for your pets, there is a weekly Pet Food Bank at Mildmay Community Centre. The Pet Food Bank is open to Islington residents, and you can drop in and sign up to receive pet food on a weekly basis. They also sometimes have random pet accessories, litter, straw and leads available on request.
Knee Class Online
Tuesdays 3-4pm
Join this class to learn some exercises to improve problems with your knees. The class is online, and you can join at any time.
Click this link to register for the class Join Class.
Zoom links will be sent out on Monday evenings.
LGBTQIA+ Peer Support Group
Tuesdays 3-5pm
Manor Gardens, N7 6LA
The group has been running since December 2021 and is a supportive group for the LGBTQIA+ community. Contact Emil Berleen to do an assessment.
Call 07783 149 042 or email lgbtqia.peer.support.group@gmail.com
Estorick Art Workshops
Alternate Tuesdays from now until 17th November, 3–5pm
Estorick Gallery, Highbury & Islington
Inspired by photographers Wanda and Marion Wulz. These workshops explore portraiture, Futurism, and identity through experimental photography that reimagines how we see the world.
To book your place email info@slt.org.uk or call 020 7713 9304.
Islington Leaseholders Meetings
Meetings every second Tuesday of the month
The Islington Leaseholders Association holds its meetings on the second Tuesday of every month.
All Islington council leaseholders are welcome.
For more information, visit www.ila.org.uk
Free English Classes for Women
Wednesdays now until 25th November, 10am–12pm online
Fridays now until 13th November, 10am–1pm at Caxton House, St John’s Way, N19 3RQ
For more details contact zahra@kmewo.com or call 0772 421 2497.
See attached flyer ESOL Classes Online and ESOL Classes In-Person
Art at the HUB: Mixed Media
Every Wednesday, 21st October–16th December, 11am-12:30pm
Central Hub, 222 Upper Street, N1 1XR
Join this 10-week creative mixed media programme for people with early-stage dementia or mild cognitive impairment and their companions. In these sessions, you will learn a number of different art practices, including screen printing, lino printing, collage and even bookmaking - just to name a few. This programme is free of charge, and all materials are included.
For more information email christina@artsfordementia.org or call 020 3633 9954
See more Islington dementia-friendly activities on the Age UK Islington website.
Mindfulness Course
Wednesdays 6–7:30pm from now until 4th November
Online via Zoom
The Stress Project is offering a free 8-week Mindfulness Course. For a clinically proven practice to improve sleep and reduce anxiety, stress and depression, sign up and explore how to use mindfulness practices in your day-to-day!
Spaces are limited, so only sign up if you can commit to attending at least 6 out of the 8 sessions. Islington residents only!
Sign up here Stress Project Mindfulness
Grandma’s Soup
Thursdays 11am–1pm
Mildmay Community Centre, Woodville Road, N16 8NA
Grandma’s Soup brings older residents and university students together to prepare and share a homemade bowl of soup. During a session, we cook together, play games, chat, listen to music and, most importantly, enjoy each other’s company. For more information info@grandmassoup.co.uk or call Hannah on 07305 213 959
Open Heart Meditation: 9 Week Course
Thursdays 6:30-8:30pm from 22nd October
330 Caledonian Road, N1 1BB
Open your heart, transform your mind & discover how loving-kindness meditation brings greater warmth, compassion and connection into your life. For more information, click Meditation course
AGE UK ISLINGTON EVENTS - THIS MONTH
You need to register with Age UK Islington to take part in these events.
Park Cuppa Special Edition: Recycling
Wednesday 30th September, 11am–12pm
Cally Clock Tower Centre, Caledonian Park, N7 9H
Reflecting on mass production and the consumption that has grown over the past 60+ years. Book via Age UK Islington, call 020 7281 6018 or emailgethelp@ageukislington.org.uk
Let's Talk Peer Event: New Horizons
Thursday 15th October 10am-1pm
Islington Council, Shared Community Space, 222 Upper Street, London N1
Come along to hear from Adult Community Learning, the new London Museum and The Garden Classroom. Find out about learning opportunities, activities at the new museum, and nature walks to help you stay active.
Booking essential! Call Age UK Islington Helpline on 020 7281 6018
Kew Gardens Walk
Saturday 17th October 11:30am
Kew Gardens, Victoria Gate, Kew Road, TW9 3JR
Join us at Kew Gardens to say hello to autumn in this free visit organised by Age UK Islington. A volunteer will be there to greet you at the main gate and you’re welcome to stay with them throughout the visit. This is not a guided tour. Maps will be provided if you prefer to explore at your own pace. Remember to wear comfortable shoes!
Booking essential! Call Age UK Islington on 020 7281 6018 / gethelp@ageukislington.org.uk
Park Cuppa Special Edition: Courier Fraud Talk
Wednesday 28th October 11am-12pm
Cally Clock Tower Centre, Caledonian Park, N7 9HF
Join us for a discussion with the Met Police about courier fraud and what to look out for.
ISLINGTON CARERS HUB EVENTS - THIS MONTH
Do you look after a partner, friend or relative? If you live, work or care for someone in Islington, find out about events where you can meet other locals in a similar situation. These events provide an excellent opportunity to take some time out for you and take a breather.
See the Islington Carers Hub ‘Events’ webpage for:
- Regular carers monthly meet-ups
- Carers Park Theatre matinee
- And other special events every month.
PARTNER SERVICES AND UPDATES
Stoptober
This October, join the 2.5 million people who’ve been inspired by Stoptober. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve tried before, Stoptober gives you the perfect opportunity to quit smoking. Stay smoke-free for 28 days, and you’re 5 times more likely to quit for good. With the right support, quitting is easier than you think. For more information, click the following link Stoptober
Make it Happen Fund
The Make It Happen Fund application deadline is Monday 12th October at 10am. The fund offers grants of up to £500 for residents and small community groups to deliver local projects and activities that help people live happier, healthier and more connected lives.
More Protection for Renters
Looques: Toilet Access
Application forms and guidance are available through Islington Giving. For support with developing an idea or completing an application, contact sarah.page@islingtongiving.org.uk
Mental Health Services for Young Men
Group Empowerment Project
Nafsiyat Intercultural Therapy Centre, Unit 4, Lysander Mews, Lysander Grove, N19 3QP
Participants Needed for Research Study in Adults aged 40+ Living with Cerebral Palsy
Beware Screen-sharing Scammers Posing as Banks
and the tactics fraudsters use to con you. How to stop screen-sharing scams
GamCare London
Join Your Local Ward Panel: Take Action on Local Crime and Safety
To join your local Ward Panel, click here to sign up on the Met Engage website. Once signed up, contact your relevant local ward Safer Neighbourhood Team.
Islington Pensioners’ Forum
Read Easy Islington: Free and Private Reading Coaching
Click this link to get in touch Read Easy Islington
Rental Fraud
Protect yourself from rogue landlords and fraudulent rental adverts. Look out for the red flags such as requests for money upfront, no tenancy agreement, pressure to decide quickly and suspiciously cheap rent. Always view the property in person, get everything in writing and pay by traceable methods.
Islington Working Newsletter
Are you looking to build skills or find a way to get into employment? From workshops to apprenticeships and local job listings and support services that can help with your goals.
See the Islington Working newsletter.
Healthy Minds Healthy Bods - October Health Pack
Newly re-designed HMHB October Health Pack - now an incredible 57 pages every month - for FREE - to inspire, encourage and motivate.
We cover our usual Mindset (confidence, positivity, happiness), Nutrition (what your body needs), Exercise (why we do it and some suggestions), and Health (the whole smorgasbord of the spectrum): plus five recipes from Lazza's kitchen that he has not made before, quizzes, recommendations, stretches, research, our partners, what HMHB has been getting up to lately (with photos), and much more. And our penultimate page shows the huge number of events that HMHB is running in September.
You’ve Got Braille
RNIB is thrilled to bring you 'You've Got Braille,' a brand new four-part scripted comedy series, featuring an all-star cast, including Inside No.9's Steve Pemberton and Gavin & Stacey's Alison Steadman. This laugh-out-loud series completely flips the script on disability. Forget "heroic" or "inspirational" - meet Paddy. He is a disorganized, indecisive twenty-something just trying to muddle through life, love, and terrible jobs. He also happens to be blind, which adds an extra layer of chaotic complication to everything.
All four episodes are available wherever you get your podcasts.
AFK We Mean Business Employment Programme for Young People
AFK has launched a programme dedicated to supporting young people aged 18-25 to become self-employed. The programme places an emphasis on the unique needs of each young person. Within this framework, members are armed with the knowledge, resources, and tools essential for not only developing their entrepreneurial concepts but also excelling in their pursuit of self-employment.
For more information, see We Mean Business
Free and Private Reading Coaching
Read Easy Islington helps adults who struggle with reading to improve their skills and confidence through free, one-to-one coaching. Readers learn at their own pace with support from a trained coach. The group is currently looking for readers, volunteer coaches and volunteer management team members. They provide free training for all volunteer roles.
Click the link to get in touch: Read Easy Islington.
A Season of Compassion
Rigpa Tibetan Buddhist Meditation Centre, 330 Caledonian Road, N1 1BB
The Rigpa Tibetan Buddhist Meditation Centre runs weekly programmes as well as one-off events throughout the Autumn. For more information see the flyer attached Buddhist Centre Events
Effective Household Budgeting Skills
Do you struggle to keep to a budget? Would you like to learn how to make your money go further? Would you like help with maximising your benefits? Book your place on this 5-week course to improve your budgeting skills and pick up simple tips on successfully managing your money. The course is hosted by Islington Council, with support from Mayor of London.
For more information, follow this link Household Budgeting
PARTNER REGULAR EVENTS
Please contact the organisation for more information.
Islington Mind Activity Timetable
Islington Mind is an independent local mental health charity that supports people experiencing mental distress in the London Borough of Islington.
See their latest timetable of activities - check with the centre for any updates.