Posted Oct 11, 2023
In this Hornsey area guide, we will provide you with all the essential information you need to know if you are thinking of moving to Hornsey.
It’s part of the London Borough of Haringey, a vibrant borough with a rich mix of cultures and communities. The main postcode districts for Hornsey are N8 and N19.
Historically, it was a separate village from the city until its inevitable expansion. Now, it’s viewed as a peaceful spot with conveniently close access to central areas.
It has been experiencing significant growth and redevelopment over recent years. Parts of the area still keep their original Victorian charm.
Is Hornsey a nice place to live?
Hornsey is a delightful place to call home. As you wander through its streets, the blend of old and new might surprise you. The high street flourishes with independent shops and cafes where friendly faces make your day brighter.
The link to Central London is fantastic too - Hornsey station can whisk you off to Moorgate in less than 20 minutes.
Living in Hornsey combines charming community feelings with the bustle of city life right at your doorstep.
Transport
Each of these methods has its own merits and suits different needs or moods on any given day. Whether it’s convenience, speed, cost or something else that’s important to you – Hornsey gives you many options to choose from.
Trains
You’ll find that the main point of access is the Hornsey railway station. Frequency and connectivity of trains is excellent. There are services running towards Moorgate and King’s Cross throughout the day and night.
Buses
If you prefer travelling by road, plenty of bus lines service Hornsey. You can catch a multitude of buses going all over London from here. They might prove to be especially handy when you need to reach places where the trains don’t directly extend.
Taxis
Admittedly not the cheapest option, but for those times when you need direct door-to-door service, Taxi cabs such like traditional Black Cabs or Uber are readily available in the area. They will get you exactly where you want to go, especially handy during those late nights when buses or trains might not be frequent.
Cycling
For active individuals who love a bit of exercise, cycling can be a fantastic way around town. London is making great strides in its cycle infrastructure - and Hornsey is no exception.
Walking
Don’t forget that sometimes the best way to get around is on foot. Hornsey is known for its lovely high street filled with boutique shops and restaurants, all of which are easily walked to. The neighbourhood itself is relatively small and extremely walkable, a great option if the weather is permitting.
Places to visit
Take a stroll down the charming streets lined with beautiful Victorian houses, each telling their own story of the area’s rich history. Don’t miss out the chance to relax in one of many cosy coffee shops around, tasting pastries and sipping freshly brewed coffee made to perfection.
Hornsey Historical Society
Dive into local history where fascinating artefacts and literature about Hornsey’s past are available. It’s an ideal place if you’re keen on understanding your potential new home area.
Alexandra Palace
Known as ‘Ally Pally’ by the locals, this stunning venue hosts various events year-round. From concerts to craft fairs, there’s always something interesting happening.
Highpoint I & II
These buildings are known for their impressive modernist architecture. While you can only admire them from the outside, their unique design stands out among typical residential buildings.
Capital Ring Walk (Section 12)
If you enjoy walking or jogging, then the Capital Ring Walk will be up your street. This popular trail offers amazing views and introduces you to parts of London that most tourists never see.
Crouch End Clocktower
At the heart of ‘The Village’ sits this iconic clock tower, a key landmark representing Hornsey. It’s surrounded by a vibrant community of shops, cafes and restaurants that will keep you busy for hours.
Parkland Walk
Formerly a railway line, this linear green walkway is dotted with art installations and offers lovely views. A fantastic place to exercise or take a peaceful stroll.
Queen’s Wood Cafe
Tucked away in Queen’s Wood, this cosy outdoors café serves organic food amidst the tranquillity of the woods. The pancakes come strongly recommended!
Hornsey Town Hall Arts Centre
A creative hub that hosts many performances and workshops aimed at inspiring joy and creativity. Sign up for a class or just enjoy what others have to offer.
Crouch End Picturehouse
If you’re into films, then visit this modern cinema hosting both blockbuster movies and independent films. It’s also home to a casual yet chic café-bar where you can appreciate good food and drink.
Parks and Green Spaces
In Hornsey, you’re never far from a peaceful green escape. The area boasts several lush parks and open spaces where you can relax, enjoy the fresh air and soak in nature’s beauty.
From the activity-rich Finsbury and Alexandra Parks, tranquil Queen’s Wood and Stationers Park, family-friendly Lordship Recreation Ground and Priory Park, to the scenic Parkland Walk Reserve, there is something for everyone.
Finsbury Park
Looking for activities galore? With its tennis courts, sports ground and boating lake, Finsbury park suits an active lifestyle. It’s also home to a bustling café and regular events like festivals and music concerts.
Queen’s Wood
Feel like going on a woodland adventure? Queen’s Wood offers ancient forest land filled with oak, ash, hawthorn among others. It’s a favourite spot for birdwatchers as it is home to several different species.
Lordship Recreation Ground
One for the entire family, this park incorporates an expansive grassland area perfect for picnics or kite-flying. There’s also a model traffic area just meant for practising bicycle riding skills safely!
Priory Park
This is your local spot for a fun family outing. It’s well-maintained with beautiful flower beds, a fountain, a bustling café for those coffee or tea moments, plus there’s even a paddling pool for the little ones in the summer.
Parkland Walk Reserve
Want to take a leisurely stroll? This 4.5-mile route is perfect for you. It’s London’s longest Local Nature Reserve and it supports loads of wildlife. Plus, it offers lovely views over north London along its way.
Stationers Park
Craving some peace and quiet? Its lush greenery brings tranquillity right to your doorstep - not to forget the children’s playground which makes it ideal for young families.
Alexandra Park
Love sports? This park houses numerous athletics pitches nestled inside more than 200 acres of incredibly maintained land. Alexandra Park also includes an Ice Rink, Skate Park and Boating Lake; so there’s always something going on!
Education
You’ll find an abundance of educational opportunities around Hornsey. The primary and secondary schools are highly rated.
There are unique educational opportunities such as Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts which offers a creative outlet for aspiring actors.
Hornsey School for Girls
An all-girls secondary school that’s not too large, it has been educating young women since 1887. It’s located right in the heart of Hornsey, making it easy to access.
Greig City Academy
A renowned secondary school open to both genders aged 11-19 years old. It is a substantial size with over 1000 pupils offering various subjects and activities. It lies only about half a mile west from Hornsey centre.
Highgate Wood School
Going towards Muswell Hill, you’ll find this mixed-gender secondary for ages 11-18. It was established in 1967 Although larger than many schools around, it offers a wide curriculum variety. It rests just a-mile-and-half north-west of Hornsey.
St Mary’s C.E Primary School
This small-size primary school is located in Hornsey. Church of England School that has been serving the community since 1863. It operates over two sites: the Church Lane site, which houses the Lower Phase (Nursery, Reception, Years 1 and 2), and the Rectory Gardens site, which accommodates the Years 3 and 4) and Upper Phase (Years 5 and 6).
Weston Park Primary School
Just over a mile south-east from Hornsey centre is this lovely small-sized primary school catering to kids aged between 3 and 11 years old.
Stroud Green Primary School
A large sized primary school based just over half a mile west of Hornsey.
Harris Academy Tottenham
Under a mile south from central Hornsey, this mixed secondary school and sixth form was only recently opened in 2014 but already shows promising results. The school is very spacious and set within a 20 acre site.
Fortismere School
A coeducational secondary school that’s been around since the 1950s. Located about a couple of miles north-west into Muswell Hill.
London Metropolitan University – Holloway Campus
About two and a half miles south from central Hornsey, their range of courses will cater across various interests. Established in 2002 following merger of two older universities.
Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts
If performing arts are your thing then this academy is ideal - one of the UK leading drama schools founded back in 1945! Located approximately three-quarters of a mile south-east from Central Hornsey.
Shopping
The Hornsey High Street is a shopper’s haven with its eclectic mix of unique boutiques and trendy high-street stores.
Don’t miss the bustling Crouch End area, where you’ll find plenty of charming independent vintage shops.
The Mall, Wood Green
Just a short journey from Hornsey, you’ll find The Mall. It’s home to more than 100 different shops ranging from clothing and accessories to electronics and groceries. There are plenty of places to grab something to eat as well, making it an ideal all-in-one shopping destination.
Harringay Local Store
This isn’t your average local shop. You’re going to love its organic produce offerings and unique specialty items that range anywhere from craft beers to artisan breads. They also feature sustainable products which are great for the environment-conscious shopper.
Sunshine Garden Centre
Looking for houseplants or garden essentials? Look no further than Sunshine Garden Centre where gardening experts are always on hand to help you with any queries you have or tips you might need.
Ply Gallery
Here’s a place where art meets retail therapy. As part of the Hornsey Town Hall Arts Centre, Ply Gallery offers ever-changing exhibitions from local artists whose pieces are available for purchase.
Interested living in Hornsey?
The Keys is a forthcoming exclusive property development in the London Borough of Haringey. It consists of 44 apartments with one, two, or three bedrooms, available for Shared Ownership from 2024. Each apartment features either a balcony or a terrace. The development, located in Zone 3 at 7 Cross Lane, N8 7SA, is based around a landscaped resident courtyard.
It’s conveniently located close to Hornsey’s high street, with local amenities like independent restaurants and coffee shops within walking distance. Further details about prices and exact availability are yet to be announced.
