Working in Clerkenwell: A Workspace Guide
1. Clerkenwell Overview
2. Demographics of Clerkenwell
3. Types of Buildings in Clerkenwell
4. Comparing Clerkenwell Office Prices to Nearby Areas
5. Similar Areas to Rent Office Space In
6. Green Spaces in Clerkenwell
7. Great Places to Eat and Drink in Clerkenwell
8. Business Events in Clerkenwell
9. Clerkenwell Accommodation for Professionals
10. Shopping in Clerkenwell
11. Wellbeing Facilities in Clerkenwell
12. Clerkenwell’s Hidden Gems
Clerkenwell Overview
Clerkenwell is a unique London location between the City of London and Islington. Popular with architects and referred to by some as ‘Little Italy”, it’s brimming with historic buildings, cobbled streets, and numerous artisanal boutiques.
The area was previously home to several breweries, distilleries, and printing presses. It has retained its reputation for creativity and innovation: today, it houses design studios, co-working spaces and professional office space.
Here’s everything you need to know about working in and around the Clerkenwell district.
Demographics of Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell’s city fringe location makes it a desirable area for businesses and entrepreneurs working in different sectors, from the creative industries to finance.
Statistics include:
• The largest employment sector is ‘Professional, Scientific & Technical’.
• The second largest employment sector is ‘Finance & insurance’.
• It’s significant for small businesses: 63.6% of businesses employ 1 to 4 staff.
• Clerkenwell has a population of 13,386.
• 38% of people aged 16-74 are employed full-time.
• 47% of residents live in a one-person household.
Types of Buildings in Clerkenwell
Many Londoners associate Clerkenwell with architecture firms, design studios and furniture showrooms. While this is the case, many buildings accommodate businesses from various additional sectors.
For example, Clerkenwell has several advertising firms, branding agencies, and marketing companies.
Comparing Clerkenwell Office Prices to Nearby Areas
The average price of a coworking desk in Clerkenwell is a competitive £313, and the average price of a desk in a private office is £710.
Next door, office space in Farringdon, which is also classed as being on the ‘city fringe’, has an average price of a coworking desk at £340, and the average price of a desk in a private office is £641.
Similar Areas to Rent Office Space In
Shoreditch office space is like Clerkenwell, an innovative neighbourhood known for its creative and entrepreneurial energy. Both are within easy reach of the City of London.
The average price of a coworking desk in Shoreditch is £336, and the average price of a desk in a private office is cheaper than in Clerkenwell, at £568.
Green Spaces in Clerkenwell
Like most places in London, there are a handful of green spaces in Clerkenwell that are perfect for a lunch break (when the weather permits):
• Spa Fields Park (view map) – A popular park next to Exmouth Market.
• St James’ Church Gardens (view map) – Featuring London plane trees surrounded by 19th-century railings.
• Wilmington Square (view map) – Full of flower beds, mature trees, a pavilion, and a water fountain.
Great Places to Eat and Drink in Clerkenwell
The Quality Chop House is a seasoned favourite in Clerkenwell. It specialises in modern British cuisine using seasonal and high-quality ingredients. The relaxed setting makes it a viable choice for a work get-together or meeting.
The Zetter Townhouse is one of Clerkenwell’s hidden gems. The cocktail bar in the hotel lounge serves beautifully curated drinks in a cosy and intimate atmosphere.
The Piano Works in Farringdon (next to Clerkenwell) is an excellent choice if you’re up for an evening of live music and dining. You can choose from a range of shared plates and cocktails. There’s even an interactive playlist that lets you choose which songs the live musicians perform.
Business Events in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell is buzzing with networking events where professionals from various industries meet in the area’s well-facilitated events and coworking spaces. You’ll find a selection of trade shows and expos, particularly regarding the latest products and innovations in design, architecture, and technology.
The Business Design Centre, a B-Corp, is a vast dedicated business events space that hosts a vibrant schedule of events. It’s situated in the heart of the borough of Islington, with excellent public transport links to Central London and other regional locations across the UK.
Clerkenwell Accommodation for Professionals
The Rookery is a charming boutique hotel in Clerkenwell with individually designed rooms, antique furnishings and luxurious amenities. It could be the place for you if you’re looking for a sophisticated stay in the city.
The Clerk & Well Pub and Rooms is also a boutique hotel and pub offering comfortable rooms above a traditional English boozer. It’s cosy and convenient, making it a fabulous potential option for those travelling on business in London.
Shopping in Clerkenwell
You'll enjoy working in Clerkenwell if you like boutiques and design-focused shopping. The area is full of independent retailers selling everything from homeware to artisan food, especially around Exmouth Market and St John Street.
Many interior design showrooms in Clerkenwell attract industry professionals and anyone looking for inspiration from home decor. Visit one of these showrooms to find and explore the latest products and accessories.
Wellbeing Facilities in Clerkenwell
As a popular place for freelancers, startups, and more established businesses, Clerkenwell isn’t short on wellbeing facilities that help promote that all-important work-life balance. There are gyms, yoga studios and health clinics to choose from.
Pure Gym is one of the area’s best-equipped and popular gyms. A roomy weights area has a plate-loaded kit and an Olympic lifting platform. When you take out a membership, access to fitness classes is included.
Clerkenwell’s Hidden Gems
Clerkenwell is a fascinating area full of hidden gems. One such gem is The Charterhouse, which offers guided tours of the architecture and gardens. Previously a monastery, the building was transformed into an alms-house and school.
Sadler’s Wells Theatre is a must-visit if you’re into dance and performing arts. Although not as famous as some West End establishments, it is a world-renowned venue that runs a diverse schedule of classical and contemporary dance.
Finally, the Goldsmiths' Centre on Britton Street is a hidden gem for lovers of gems! If you're into jewellery, check out the fascinating exhibitions, workshops, and events.
