This part of East Finchley is packed with an extremely diverse range of cultural and culinary offerings. While it’s traditionally attracted working and middle- class families in search of affordable homes, it’s been drawing in more and more young professionals in recent years. This leafy north London neighbourhood is lined with Victorian terraced houses and post-war flats, and for those residents without their own gardens, they can often be found strolling through the lush Islington and St Pancras Cemetery or the beautiful Cherry Tree Wood Park. A typical weekend day will bring locals to the East Finchley Library for a lecture, or the famous Phoenix Cinema for a film in its historic theatre. After this and perhaps a browse through the quality offerings at Alan’s Records, locals pack into The Clissold Arms for a pint or two. For those in search of a solid meal, there’s always the delicious Thai food at Madden’s or the French cooking at Genzo Brasserie. With all that’s going on in the locality, it’s easy to understand its growing popularity!

The Phoenix Cinema is an important anchor in the community. Many Londoners have heard of it due to its historical roots. Founded in 1910, the cinema opened in 1912 and was a part of the first batch of cinemas built throughout the UK. Unfortunately, the company that had begun building the cinema in 1910, went bankrupt before it could open. A wealthy businessman in the area purchased the cinema, opening it up in 1912 with a film about the sinking of the Titanic. Back when the cinema opened, there was an orchestra pit and double the seats that exist today. However, the theatre has maintained its historical feel - and draws in loads of visitors each week.

The founding members of The Kinks grew up in the area. Ray and Dave Davies are some of the locals’ favourite residents to boast about.

With the wonderful schools and nearby transit connections, many families are moving in making the area pricier and pricier each year. Even so, residents realise that the area’s growing popularity is just a reflection of the wonderful tight knit community that so many Londoners yearn for.

Much to the delight of some locals, development has been slow in this neighbourhood when compared to similar parts of north London. The development of the Muswell Hill Synagogue, which is expanding in the form of the Shul Building, is nonetheless a widely anticipated addition to the east of the neighbourhood. The modest Hamlet Gate scheme is the most notable residential development in this area. The 24 private homes will all have their own private balconies and terraces sitting between 12 and 18 High Road.