So, you’re on the hunt for office space to rent in South East London? Excellent choice! London’s vibrant SE1 postcode is bursting with creative energy, handy transport links and a whole lot of history.
This neck of the woods is in a prime location, close to the River Thames and tons of places for after-work socials, so it’s no surprise that it’s a favourite among business professionals.
But, with so many cool areas to choose from, picking the right spot can feel more stressful than using the Tube during rush hour.
Fear not, we’ve got you covered!
This blog breaks down some of the top SE1 neighbourhoods to work in: Bermondsey, London Bridge, Borough and South Bank. We’ll look at the pros and cons of each area, highlighting their unique features, amenities and suitability for different types of businesses.
We like to think of Bermondsey as the unsung hero of South London. Described by The Sunday Times as “possibly the coolest village in Britain”, the area is uber cool with a distinct charm.
It’s also one of London’s most up-and-coming hubs for ambitious businesses, benefiting from a Business Improvement District (BID). The Blue Bermondsey works to boost Bermondsey’s profile and make it a better place to live and work.
Edgy vibe: Bermondsey is all about converted warehouses and industrial spaces. Think exposed brick walls, high ceilings – perfect for that creative buzz.
Easy commute: Southwark and London Bridge stations are a stone’s throw away, with easy access to the rest of the city.
Foodie paradise: From Michelin-starred restaurants to trendy food halls (shoutout to Maltby Street Market!), your taste buds will thank you.
Artistic community: The area’s filled with independent shops, galleries and cultural attractions – great if you’re seeking a creative and inspiring atmosphere.
Limited amenities: Large chain stores and supermarkets are a bit thin on the ground compared to other SE1 areas.
Quieter nightlife: Bermondsey isn’t the liveliest spot for after-work drinks, but there are some cool pubs tucked away. Plus, the renowned Bermondsey Beer Mile.
Laid-back feel: There’s a less corporate atmosphere here compared to other London locations (which could be a pro for some businesses!).
Bermondsey is ideal for businesses looking for a trendy, creative space at a good price. But if you want heaps of nearby amenities and a lively nightlife scene, you might want to explore other options.
Our serviced offices in South East London are particularly popular with people from the worlds of recruitment, healthcare, digital and sustainability.
London Bridge is a great choice if you’re looking for a colourful place to set up shop. Thanks to its transport links, new office developments and closeness to the Thames, it’s one of the most sought-after areas in the capital.
Here you’ll find historic landmarks, cracking riverside views and easy access to pretty much all of London’s business sectors. What more could a burgeoning business want?
Central location: You’re right in the heart of the action, with excellent rail services and the Underground from London Bridge, making it super easy to reach the entire city and beyond.
Networking heaven: London Bridge is a major business district, ideal for making valuable connections and collaborating.
After-work delights: Whether you’re looking for a bite to eat or a beverage or two after work, London Bridge has loads of great spots.
Buzzing atmosphere: London Bridge is a dynamic hub with a mix of businesses, shops and restaurants. There’s always something going on!
Higher office rents: Office space usually comes at a premium in London Bridge, thanks to its prestigious business address.
Chain central: Expect many big-name brands and fewer local gems in this area. There are independent shops, you just need to explore.
Busy during peak hours: Some would say bustling, others would say crowded. London Bridge is one of the city’s busiest commuter hubs.
London Bridge is ideal for businesses that prioritise accessibility, networking opportunities and being at the centre of the London action. But, be prepared for higher rents and a bustling corporate atmosphere.
Home to the Tate Modern and the UK’s tallest skyscraper, The Shard, Borough is one of the oldest areas of London and one of the city’s most exciting places to work. It’s also home to the undeniable jewel of SE1 – Borough Market. Overflowing with delectable delights, we think the famous food market is a perfectly rational reason to establish your business here.
Opt for serviced offices in Borough and you’ll be spoilt for choice with places to eat, drink and explore – all the components you need to strike that all-important work-life balance.
Historic appeal: Borough’s charming buildings, streets and iconic landmarks give the place character and a touch of grandeur.
Well-connected: An SE1 postcode means a central location, so you’ll find top-notch transport links to make commuting a breeze.
Foodie heaven: Have we mentioned Borough Market? It’s a treasure trove of fresh produce, international cuisine and delicious treats galore to satisfy all your lunchtime cravings.
Vibrant atmosphere: You’re never a short walk from bars, pubs and restaurants, which create a lively vibe and lots of options for socialising.
Limited space: Office space in Borough can be hard to come by. But we’re helping to fix that by opening our shiny new serviced offices in Borough in July!
Tourist traffic: Be prepared for crowds, especially around Borough Market.
Borough London’s mix of history, lively atmosphere and excellent transport links makes it ideal for businesses that thrive in a dynamic environment and are looking for HQs with a community feel.
Check out our guide for reasons why a workspace in Borough could help your business thrive.
Widely known as London’s cultural heart, South Bank runs parallel to the Thames and is a dynamic and well-connected location.
This riverside neighbourhood is the place to work if you like lots going on and, with so many famous sites on your doorstep, you’ll never run out of fun things to see and do.
Cultural attractions: South Bank is brimming with art galleries, theatres and museums, offering endless inspiration for creativity.
Picturesque scenes: Stunning views of the River Thames and panoramic city sights create a calming and beautiful work environment.
Riverside relaxation: Take a break from work with a stroll along the Thames or enjoy a scenic lunch by the river.
Tourist buzz: South Bank is a popular tourist destination, which can be great for businesses looking to attract international clientele.
Tourist crowds: Sightseers can also be a downside, though. Be prepared for busy streets and potentially longer commutes during peak tourist season.
Pricey territory: Rents can be on the higher side compared to other SE1 locations, especially with the prime riverside location.
South Bank is a great choice for businesses that thrive in a vibrant environment, appreciate cultural offerings and want to impress clients with impressive views. But keep in mind the potentially higher rents and a tourist-heavy atmosphere.
Median rates in the city of London range from £653 per desk for a 5–10-person office to £773 per person for a private enterprise office with 50 or more desks.1 However, the cost of renting serviced offices in South East London varies depending on a range of things like location, amenities and the type of workspace.
SE1 was among the most affordable Central London areas in 2023, recording average rents of £448.2
So, there you have it – your guide to the top office location contenders in the SE1 postcode area!
Remember, the perfect office space depends on your unique business needs and vibe. Consider your budget, team size, desired work environment and after-work social scene when making your decision.
If you’re looking for office space to rent in South East London, we’d love to show you around our Borough and Bermondsey workspaces. Contact our team today to learn more.
