I moved to Muswell Hill because I met my partner, who has lived here for 14 years.
It’s got this kind of bohemian, village-like feel to it, with people from all walks of life. There are a lot of artists and musicians, and families with their babies and dogs. It’s lush and green, but vibrant and buzzy, too.
I travel a lot for work, which tends to involve late nights and lots of people, so it’s nice to have this quiet safe spot. It’s very easy to stay up here.
Best eating and drinking
For good sushi there’s Midori, which has been there for years. Bob’s Cafe is fantastic, too. They do a really great katsu curry that I love. We’ve also got Toff’s, which is supposed to be one of the best fish-and-chip shops in London. Then Dunns bakery is the place for fresh cakes. They do really good doughnuts.
There are a few cocktail places around, but really it’s about the beautiful old pubs. That’s more the vibe. My local is The Village Green, which has an awesome little beer garden that’s a real suntrap. It has that “everyone knows everyone” feel.
We’ve also got all the pubs in Crouch End and Highgate within walking distance. I really like The King’s Head on Crouch End Hill, and walking through Highgate Woods to The Red Lion & Sun. That’s the best spot for a roast.
Where I work out
As I’ve got older I’ve got really into exercise, which is hilarious because I didn’t used to be bothered at all.
There’s a little spot called GibFit 30 on Fortis Green Road, which does half an hour HIIT classes that aren’t as intense as doing the full thing. It’s got a really nice community vibe. Three Tribes in Crouch End is great for a spin class.
To commune with nature
Highgate Woods is a really special place for me. I just love it there. It’s so peaceful – like you’ve gone back in time – when you’re walking around.
Alexandra Palace is one of the highest points in London and the views are just ridiculous. There’s also a bit of a vibe up there as you’ve got the big terrace for drinks outside in the summer.
There’s the Parkland Walk as well, where you can walk alongside the old railway tracks from 1873 all the way to Finsbury Park. There’s so much nature here.
For a culture fix
I love treating myself to a really good movie at the Everyman with a glass of wine. It’s in this beautiful art deco building that really sticks out on the high street.
Ally Pally is fantastic for gigs and they do a lot of festivals up there now, too. I used to think it was such a schlep when I didn’t live in the area, but now it’s my local! After a gig I’ll walk down to the Boogaloo pub, which often has aftershows.
We’ve also got lots of bookshops, a couple of galleries and loads of charity shops, which are great for vinyl.
Grocery shops
You’ve got your Sainsbury’s and M&S, but I like to support independents and we’re totally spoiled around here.
There’s a shop on the end of my street called Greens on the Hill, which does really good, fresh vegetables and lovely wine. We’ve also got a little Japanese supermarket called Jiamart that sells ramen and dumplings and custard buns that I’m obsessed with.
W Martyn has been here since 1897 and it hasn’t aged at all inside. They do lovely biscuits and jams. Every morning they grind fresh coffee beans and it wafts down the high street.
Then there’s Walter Purkis, the fishmonger, and the Hampstead Butcher, which is good for a treat as it’s a little more pricey.
Getting around
It’s lucky that I like to walk, as transport is a little trickier around here. You can walk to Highgate Tube, or get a bus down to Finsbury Park. There’s a big bus station here so they’re really regular. I don’t drive so I tend to get taxis after late shows.
Dream street
Holly Village is this stunning group of Gothic cottages hidden behind a gate near Highgate Cemetery. I’m always peering through when I walk past.
Something you only see in Muswell Hill
The chewing gum man! There’s a local artist called Ben Wilson who paints really intricate pieces of art on to old pieces of chewing gum. If you look down in Muswell Hill, all over the Broadway, there are loads of them.
I see him strewn across the pavement all the time. It’s such a brilliant way of brightening things up.
What’s the catch?
It’s got to be the transport, though it just takes a bit more planning and time.
In three words...
Vibrant. Bohemian. Green.
Iraina Mancini is currently on a UK tour and is at Hope & Ruin in Brighton on May 10. Her album ‘Under The Blue’ is out now. irainamancini.com
Schools
Muswell Hill is known for its good schools. Coldfall Primary School and Our Lady of Muswell Catholic Primary School are both rated ‘Outstanding’ by Ofsted, while Fortismere is a ‘Good’ local secondary.
What it costs
Buying in Muswell Hill
Average flat price: £517,740
Average house price: £1,421,620
Renting in Muswell Hill
Average flat rent, pcm: £1,820
Average house rent, pcm: £3,190
