Corporate Accommodation in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell’s popularity with innovative young firms, combined with its proximity to both the City of London and Canary Wharf means it is a familiar destination for business travellers. For this reason, the area features an abundance of corporate accommodation - bespoke spaces set up specifically to meet the needs of a corporate clientele. Each property offers all the amenities required for a productive stay, including necessities like a flat-screen TV and high-speed Wi-Fi. What’s more, corporate accommodation in Clerkenwell also provides a place to cook, with fully-equipped kitchen facilities meaning business travellers don’t have to waste valuable time in seeking out restaurants and eateries for every meal.
Holiday Accommodation in Clerkenwell
Aside from being an up-and-coming business hub, Clerkenwell is also the ideal location for tourists looking to see a different side of London. The area’s location just north of the city centre makes it perfect for those looking to explore many of the capital’s most fashionable hangouts in places such as Hoxton, Camden and Hackney, whilst still being just a stone’s throw form with the world-famous landmarks of Westminster, Tower Hill and the West End.
Holiday accommodation in Clerkenwell comes in a variety of formats, from large hotels to small independent hostels. However, more and more travellers are discovering that serviced apartments provide the ultimate balance of comfort, convenience and privacy. Each property offers guests a home-from-home environment in which they can relax after a day exploring the city. What’s more, TheSqua.re’s range of serviced apartments in Clerkenwell all provide fully-equipped kitchen facilities, making them particularly suitable for those looking to self-cater.
Where to Stay in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell encompasses a relatively small area and anyone staying locally will find they can easily get to most of the local amenities and transport hubs on foot. This makes choosing where to stay in Clerkenwell a question of personal preference more than anything else. One of the most popular places to stay in terms of convenience and atmosphere is the area immediately surrounding Kings Square Gardens. In particular, Seward Street and Lever Street offer guests a respite from the busy main road whilst still being just a short walk from local shops and amenities. Alternatively, those looking for something more lively can opt for properties found along Clerkenwell Road.
Facts About Clerkenwell
Despite being one of London’s lesser-known neighbourhoods, Clerkenwell has long played a significant part of the capital’s history and has seen its fair share of defining events. Having originated as a monastic settlement, the area has evolved from a puritanical enclave to the vibrant multicultural hotspot it is today.
Below are a few interesting facts about Clerkenwell:
- Clerkenwell takes its name from The Clerk’s Well. The well was located within the boundary walls of St Mary’s Nunnery, in and around what is now Clerkenwell Close.
- William Wallace, Scotland’s ‘Braveheart’, was hanged, drawn and quartered in neighbouring Smithfield in 1305.
- Russian revolutionary Vladimir Lenin once resided on Percy Circus, half a mile north of Clerkenwell Green.
- Clerkenwell was the centre of the gin-distilling industry until the Sixties.
- Clerkenwell’s traditions of making clocks and watches began in the 18th century and continues to this day - albeit on a declining scale.
- The Monastic Order of the Knights Hospitallers of St John of Jerusalem had its English headquarters at the Priory of Clerkenwell.
Cost of Living in Clerkenwell
As with most city-centre neighbourhoods, the cost of living in Clerkenwell can be higher than other parts of the UK. However, this shouldn’t deter potential visitors as despite being a highly sought after location, there are still plenty of ways to save money when staying in Clerkenwell. The biggest expenditure is almost definitely going to be rent. For a small to medium-sized apartment, tenants can expect to pay between £2,500 and £4,000 per month to stay in Clerkenwell. However, by choosing to stay in a serviced apartment, guests will find they often get a better deal due to bills and administrative costs being included in the price - which usually equates to a lower overall cost compared to the private market.
Travel is another cost to consider. Whilst people will have different requirements when it comes to how often and how far they need to travel, typically most will benefit from using either the Oyster payment card or a weekly travel card for public transport. The Oyster card is capped daily, depending on which transport is used and how far, this cap is between £6 and £10. For those staying for just a couple of days, the Oyster is the most cost-effective way of paying for transport. However, those staying a little longer will find a weekly travelcard (£35 for a zone 1-2 weekly pass) provides better value.
Tips for Visiting Clerkenwell
London is one of the most visited cities in the world, welcoming millions of visitors each year. Those visiting Clerkenwell, in particular, will find they have plenty of options when it comes to what landmarks to visit, the best routes for public transport and how to get the most out of their stay in general. With this in mind, what follows are a few tips for visiting Clerkenwell:
- Use an Oyster or Contactless card for getting around on the Underground.
- Be aware that a trip to the local pubs and bars will be cheaper outside of the city centre
- Clerkenwell gets very busy around rush hour!
- The Victoria, Central, Jubilee, Northern and Piccadilly Lines operate for 24hrs on Fridays and Saturdays.
- Walking is a great way to see many of the local historic sights
- The best views of the cityscape can be had from the various bridges over the Thames
- Heading east from Clerkenwell will take you into some of London’s most famously hipster areas, such as Hoxton and Hackney.
Things to Do in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell is a fashionable area that is known for having a vibrant, social atmosphere. Further to this, its central location means that anyone staying locally is never far from many of London’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. In short, visitors to Clerkenwell will never be found wanting when it comes to things to do.
Q. What are the top things to do near Clerkenwell?
Clerkenwell itself is a great place to explore and travellers will find they can reach many famous attractions on foot. Some local highlights include:
- St Paul’s Cathedral.
- The Barbican Centre.
- The Museum of London.
- Shoreditch Boxpark.
- Brick Lane Market.
Q. What are some free things to do in Clerkenwell?
Clerkenwell benefits from being close to many of London’s world-class museums - most of which are completely free to enter, including:
- The British Museum.
- The National Gallery.
- Sir John Soane’s Museum.
- The Imperial War Museum.
Q. What is there to do in the evening in Clerkenwell?
Clerkenwell is known as being a top spot for an upscale night on the town. In particular, there are plenty of chic bars and Michelin-starred restaurants in the vicinity. Further to its great range of nightspots, there are also several theatres nearby, making Clerkenwell perfect for those looking to enjoy an evening out.
Q. What are some unusual things to do in Clerkenwell?
London has plenty of quirky things to do and many of them are within easy reach of Clerkenwell. Those seeking something more active can check out one of the local escape rooms, or even try their hand at some extreme sports. Alternatively, those looking to explore the darker side of the capital’s history can visit famous execution sites, haunted pubs and even an underground crypt restaurant.
Places to Visit in Clerkenwell
Many of London’s top attractions are just a short distance from Clerkenwell, making it the perfect spot from which to explore the capital. From historic landmarks to world-famous museums, those staying in the area will find they have numerous options when it comes to places to visit. A few suggestions include:
- The British Museum - famous for its incredible collection of ancient artefacts - including the notorious Rosetta Stone.
- The Tate Modern - London’s most visited attraction housing some of the world’s finest modern artworks.
- Westminster and the Houses of Parliament - the seat of the UK government and one of the world’s most iconic buildings. Home to the infamous Big Ben.
- Covent Garden - the heart of London’s theatre and entertainment area, with a host of bars and eateries.
- The Tower of London - the iconic palace-fortress is one of London’s most recognisable landmarks and houses numerous historical exhibits within its walls.
- The London Eye - a 135-metre observation wheel that offers spectacular views of the Thames and London cityscape.
- Buckingham Palace- the London residence of Queen Elizabeth and a stunning example of 18th-century architecture.
- Leicester Square - famous for its movie premiers, Leicester Square is one of London’s most iconic locations and a popular place for tourists.
Places to Eat in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell is known as one of London’s top locations when it comes to dining out. Visitors can enjoy everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to quirky vegetarian restaurants. There’s also a fantastic selection of international cuisine on offer.
Some of the most popular places to eat in Clerkenwell include:
- Morito.
- Luca.
- The Le Cafe du Marche.
- Santore Italian Restaurant.
- Ngon Ngon.
- Anglo.
- The Great Chase.
- The Peasant.
- The Clerk & Well Pub & Rooms.
Street Food in Clerkenwell
Whilst Clerkenwell has something of a reputation for fine dining, anyone staying locally will soon discover that there are also plenty of options when it comes to street food and casual dining. Some of the best spots for street food in Clerkenwell include:
- Leather Lane Market.
- Beboz Italian Street Food.
- Farringdon Street Food.
- Pho Clerkenwell.
- Mugen Takeaway Shop.
Shopping in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell is ideal for those looking to do a little shopping. The are has an almost village-like atmosphere, with delightful shops and boutiques selling everything from independent fashions to handmade children’s toys. However, those seeking some more serious retail therapy also have the option of heading to some of London’s modern shopping malls and plazas, such as:
- Westfield London, Shepherd’s Bush (The capital’s largest shopping centre).
- One New Change.
- The Brunswick Centre.
- Broadgate Circle.
- New Street Square.
- The Royal Exchange.
Transportation in Clerkenwell
Being well within central London, Clerkenwell benefits from excellent public transport links. For journeys within the city centre, the best options are the tube and buses. For journeys on the London Underground, there are several stations that serve the Clerkenwell area:
- Angel.
- Farringdon.
- Barbican.
- Russel Square.
- Chancery Lane.
Collectively, these stations are served by the Northern, Circle, Hammersmith & City and Metropolitan lines, meaning anyone travelling from Clerkenwell can easily access most of the city without even needing to change services. For buses, Clerkenwell Road has the areas main stop and there are several routes running across the city centre and out towards the suburbs, including two night services.
Journey’s on both buses and the Underground can be paid for with London’s Oyster card system. A single trip to zone 1-2 will cost £2.40 whilst the equivalent single ticket is £4.90. Similarly, a zone 1 - 4 Travelcard will cost £13.10, whilst the Oyster is capped at £10.10. The card can be used on buses, trains and the London Underground.
Weather in Clerkenwell
Clerkenwell experiences the same weather as the rest of London and the wider south-east of England. Typically, the capital experiences four distinct seasons and extremes of weather are a rarity. July and August are popular times to visit, as the weather is typically dry and warm without being too hot, with the mercury usually hovering in the high twenties. September is also popular for older travellers or those without families as they are slightly cooler and fall outside of the school holidays. Whilst Winter sees the temperatures drop, December and January are still hugely popular times to visit London as the city hosts an abundance of festivities and seasonal events. It should be noted though, that British weather is notoriously unpredictable and even summer days can experience rainfall.
