Work.Life is making its way to Clerkenwell, and we’re beyond excited! Known for its iconic Clerkenwell Design Week and for being the hub of architecture and design, the vibrant area is a magnet for forward-thinking professionals and creative firms. And with loads of places to eat, drink and explore, Clerkenwell is a dream location to strike that sweet work-life balance.
Crowned London’s Best Place to Live by the Sunday Times in 2024, we’re here to tell you why Clerkenwell is also one of the best places to work.
The location
A great thing about working in Clerkenwell is how incredibly well-connected you are.
Located in the heart of Islington, a few quick Tube stops from Clerkenwell will get you to iconic Oxford Street, and a short stroll will land you on the Square Mile. Plus, it’s sandwiched between London’s West End and financial district. How’s that for central?
Commuting to Clerkenwell is also a breeze thanks to regular buses and Farringdon Station, which gives you an easy link to the Underground (including the shiny Elizabeth line) and City Thameslink services.
Beyond the commute, Clerkenwell’s handy public transport links are your ticket to adventure! Head north to reach Coal Drops Yard at King’s Cross with its colourful shopping, events and dining scene. A trip south will take you to Theatreland while venturing east gets you to trendy Shoreditch.
What to do in Clerkenwell
You don’t have to travel too far for things to do when you’re working in Clerkenwell.
Picture this: modern amenities meet a lively social scene, blended with historic buildings and charming cobbled streets. It’s giving quaint village-in-the-city energy (cute, right?).
This makes it ideal for a lunchtime mooch around some of Clerkenwell’s independent boutiques selling everything from homeware to artisan food, especially around Exmouth Market and St John Street.
Enjoy the neighbourhood’s green spaces like Spa Fields and St James Church Garden, catch a show at Sadler’s Wells Theatre, or discover the array of art galleries, restaurants, bars and pubs on your doorstep.
Where to eat in Clerkenwell
Leave your limp sandwiches at home; there are endless lunch options when working in Clerkenwell. It’s a foodie’s paradise, from variety-packed street food markets to Michelin Star restaurants. Here are some of our fave lunch (or dinner!) spots:
Discover a mix of established restaurants and artisan coffee shops with street stalls here. Whichever cuisine you fancy – French, Italian, Middle Eastern, Spanish – you name it, they’ve got it (probably).
This is a taste of Argentina in the heart of Clerkenwell. Bocas is a great spot for a social lunch or dinner with its array of tapas and small plates – perfect for sharing.
If you’re looking for somewhere to seriously impress, Michelin-starred St. John is just the place. Google describes it as: “Whitewashed ex-smokehouse where Fergus Henderson pioneered the resurgent interest in offal dishes”. Oh, she’s fancy!
For a humbler but no less tasty affair, look no further than this Korean hot spot, serving up classic Korean fare like kimchi and fried chicken (there’s vegan options, too).
Another market with allllll the street food options, Leather Lane Market is a treat for your tastebuds. There’s also stalls selling fresh flowers, fashion, homeware and more to peruse. You can drop into Work.Life St Cross Street while you’re there.
Where to drink in Clerkenwell
Another thing you need to know about working in Clerkenwell is that it’s a fab area for after-work socials. Whether you fancy a couple of quiet pints or a stylish cocktail, there’s somewhere to suit every occasion.
Here are some popular haunts for a little post-work drink (or two) after working in Clerkenwell:
Cosy pubs
Holy Tavern (formerly Jerusalem Tavern) is a short walk from Farringdon Station. This historic pub dates back to the 18th century and serves up British ales (other drinks available). It’s a brilliant spot for a casual pint, and it’s pooch-friendly. You’ll also find traditional pub vibes at The Sekforde, Fox & Anchor and The Eagle.
Great for cocktails
You can’t beat cocktails in the Parlour at The Zetter Clerkenwell with its award-winning mixologists. The drinks are inventive, and the atmosphere is cosy and intimate. Astro Cocktail Bar, The Rabbit’s Hole and Clerkenwell & Social are excellent options, too!
Clubs & bars
For a more upbeat weeknight option, nearby Farringdon has The Piano Works, featuring live music every night, with pianists taking requests from the audience. Or how about Fabric nightclub to really let your hair down?
Bonus: Coffee shop spots
It’s not all about after-work drinks. If you’re looking for a morning brew or afternoon pick-me-up out of the office, there’s tons of coffee shops to choose from. Prufrock Coffee, Granger & Co. and Briki are a few that spring to mind.
Work.Life Clerkenwell – coming soon
Working in Clerkenwell sounds pretty awesome, right? We’re totally on the same page, which is why we’re opening a new Work.Life Clerkenwell workspace in 2025 – check it out here!
You’ll find us in Clerkenwell Green – an enviable location – with five incredible floors of coworking spaces, private offices and all the usual top-notch Work.Life amenities to power a productive day in the office, including:
Remember, we’re dog-friendly, too, so your furry friend can tag along!
If you’re dying to learn more about our new Clerkenwell workspace or curious about our other private offices and coworking spots in Central London, get in touch today. We’d love to tell you more!
