At just under 6 square miles Islington is the borough just north of the City, easily walked to from the centre and served by several tube stops. It's a varied area of beautiful green Georgian streets, busy thoroughfares, traditional and modern stores. It has a bit of everything, making it one of London's most popular neighbourhoods.
Situated by the canal basin of Islington you will find the second London outpost of the Victoria Miro gallery. This old furniture factory has 8000 sq ft of exhibition space, good views and a little garden (sometimes home to sculptures and installations). If you're peckish there is a McDonalds next door.
