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Clerkenwell's creative community - Why a private office in this design district is ideal

Ready to get to know Clerkenwell?

Possibly the hardest thing about searching for new office space in London is that you’re absolutely spoilt for choice. In most cities, you'll have a couple of different areas to choose from, but London has got loads of hot spots.

Farringdon, Shoreditch and Mayfair have become go-to areas for businesses of all kinds in the last couple of decades. But one of the most exciting areas for startups at the moment is Clerkenwell. The area is by no means new – in fact, it’s one of the oldest areas of London. If you were to take a time machine through Clerkenwell’s history, you’d find everything from the Knights Templar, and peasant revolts to Hollywood blockbusters.

Luckily, modern Clerkenwell’s most recent revolution has been a creative one. If you’re looking for new office space in central London, Clerkenwell is well worth considering. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about the area. We’ll cover everything from the history of the area and local amenities to the benefits of having office space in Clerkenwell.

Ready to get to know Clerkenwell?

The history of Clerkenwell



When you think about areas in Central London, Clerkenwell probably isn’t at the top of your list. But few areas can compete with Clerkenwell when it comes to history. It dates all the way back to the 12th century, which makes it one of the oldest districts in the city.

The name of the area comes from the Clerk’s Well, which was, unsurprisingly, a well where London’s Parish Clerks put on mystery plays. The plays were popular entertainment for the locals, and people flocked to watch. Religion played a big part in the history of the area, and it was home to a group of monastic orders in the Middle Ages.

But there’s a lot more to Clerkenwell’s history than just religion. During the Elizabethan era, it had a somewhat disreputable reputation with three prisons in the area. Luckily, the reputation of the area changed pretty quickly when the Industrial Revolution came along.

Clerkenwell dropped its associations with the seedier side of London and became known for its breweries, distilleries, printing, watch-making and jewellery. Over the years, Clerkenwell has been called home by several significant figures, including:

  • William Cavendish
  • Oliver Cromwell
  • Charles Dickens
  • Vladimir Lenin
  • Daniel Defoe

 

The construction of the Metropolitan Railway, the first underground railway and precursor to the Tube, led to big changes in Clerkenwell. It made the area much more accessible, which led to rapid urbanisation. But despite the changes, the area managed to retain its unique character.

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Modern Clerkenwell


Like a lot of London’s industrial areas, Clerkenwell saw an industrial decline in the post-war era. Many buildings once full of engineers, craftspeople and printers were left empty for years. It wasn’t until the 1980s that the area started to see a revival, and it hasn’t stopped since.

Clerkenwell has transformed into a bustling hub for businesses, especially those in the creative industries – some say it’s got the highest concentration of architects and building professionals in the world. This isn’t by chance. The district’s historic charm and modern amenities create a unique atmosphere that’s hard to find elsewhere in London.

Clerkenwell today is a blend of the old and new. Historic buildings house modern businesses, and the streets are lined with a mix of traditional pubs like The Clerk and Well and trendy cafes.

With all this and more, Clerkenwell offers everything a startup needs in order to thrive. It’s no wonder that this district is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after spots for startups in London.

Reasons to choose office space in Clerkenwell



As you can see, Clerkenwell has got a lot going for it. It’s a long way from the hotbed of crime it was during the Elizabethan era. It’s now a hot spot for businesses and startups of all kinds. But what makes it stand out from other popular areas of London like Shoreditch and Mayfair?

Here are a few reasons Clerkenwell should make your shortlist:

Modern office spaces

First off, let’s talk about the office spaces. Clerkenwell is packed with modern, state-of-the-art offices. We’re talking about spaces that are housed in historic buildings but kitted out with the latest tech. It’s the perfect blend of old-world charm and contemporary functionality.

Top-notch restaurants, cafes and bars

When it comes to food and drink, Clerkenwell’s got you covered. The district is teeming with high-quality restaurants, cafes and bars. Whether you’re after a Michelin-starred meal or a quick coffee from an artisan cafe, you’ll find it here. It’s the perfect place for a business lunch, a quick bite between meetings or after-work drinks.

Great transport links

And let’s not forget about the transport links. Clerkenwell is well-connected, with excellent bus, train, and underground links from nearby Farringdon Station. Whether you’re commuting from another part of London or travelling in from further afield, getting to Clerkenwell is a doddle.

The benefits of private office spaces in Clerkenwell



If Clerkenwell sounds like the perfect spot for your business, the next step is to find an office space there. Just as there are a lot of choices when it comes to office location, you’ve also got options when it comes to the types of offices.

Two of the most popular choices are co-working spaces and private offices. While co-working spaces can work well for some companies, most businesses choose a private office space. Here’s why:

Your space, your rules

A private, flexible office gives you the freedom to create your own rules. You can tailor the space to meet your team’s needs, select decor that mirrors your brand, and cultivate a work environment that encourages creativity and productivity.

In the heart of the action

Being in Clerkenwell means you’re part of an exciting community. It’s an area where businesses support each other and collaborate to grow. Having a private office here means you’re not just working in this dynamic community, but actively participating in it.

Boost your brand

Having a private office in Clerkenwell can give your brand a big boost. The district is known as a hub for creativity and innovation, and having an office here sends a positive message to clients and investors.

Attract the best

Clerkenwell’s unique mix of history, creativity, and modern amenities makes it a prime location for attracting top talent. With its excellent transport links and exciting social scene, it’s a place where people want to work. A private office in Clerkenwell can give you an edge when it comes to recruiting and retaining the best in the business.

Flexibility for growth

As your business evolves, a private office space can adapt to meet your changing needs. Whether you’re scaling up your team or reconfiguring your workspace, a private office gives you the freedom to make changes without restrictions. This flexibility can be crucial for startups and growing businesses, allowing you to focus on what matters most: driving your business forward.

Find Your Clerkenwell Office Space Today


As you can see, Clerkenwell is well worth considering if you’re on the hunt for your next office space. Its rich history, vibrant creative community, and excellent location offer a unique blend of benefits that are hard to find elsewhere in London.

Canvas Offices in Clerkenwell offers a unique blend of convenience, style, and functionality, making it an ideal choice for startups. Located just a five-minute walk from Farringdon Station and a stone’s throw from St. John’s Square, these office spaces are at the heart of a thriving startup scene.

The office spaces themselves are bathed in natural light thanks to floor-to-ceiling windows, creating an inviting and productive environment. With its exposed bricks and timber beams, the building’s design adds a touch of historic charm, aligning perfectly with Clerkenwell’s rich history and creative vibe.

But that’s not all. Our offices on Albemarle Way come with:

  • High-speed internet
  • All utilities included
  •  Breakout area
  • Kitchen
  • Meeting rooms
  • Balcony
  • 24/7 access
  •  Flexible contract