Living in Clerkenwell

About Clerkenwell

Mentioned in Shakespeare’s sonnets and immortalised by literary greats like Charles Dickens, William Thackeray and William Morris, Clerkenwell has long been a hub of creativity. Today, that legacy lives on in its thriving design and architecture sector, attracting a stylish crowd of professionals who enjoy the area’s dynamic energy and proximity to the City of London. Weekends are spent exploring bustling markets, independent restaurants and lively bars, while weekdays offer a quick commute and easy access to Farringdon station for weekend getaways.

Fact file

• Some Clerkenwell pubs, like The Hope and The Fox & Anchor, open as early as 6am to serve Smithfield Market’s nightshift workers.
• Clerkenwell Green was the site of the world’s first May Day march in 1890 and remains a traditional gathering point.
• In Oliver Twist, Dickens placed Fagin and the Artful Dodger teaching Oliver to pickpocket in Clerkenwell Green.
• Legend has it Lenin and Stalin once plotted revolution at the Crown Tavern on Clerkenwell Green.

Architecture and property 

Clerkenwell’s architectural landscape reflects its layered history. From Oliver Cromwell’s residence to its industrial past filled with breweries, printers and watchmakers. Today, it’s a global design destination boasting more creative businesses per square mile than anywhere else in the world.

Property here ranges from 17th-century homes near Smithfield Market to listed post-war estates like the Barbican. Most homes are flats or apartments with standout developments including Brewhouse Yard, Dance Square and Kingsway Place. Georgian and Victorian terraces line City Road and Chequer Street, while Spa Green and Golden Lane estates offer listed mid-century living. Victorian warehouse conversions and picturesque flats in Brewery Square and Granville Square are highly sought after, as are the new mews houses on gated River Street.

Going out

Clerkenwell’s dining scene is diverse and acclaimed. Local favourites include St John Restaurant and Sushi Tetsu. The Eagle on Farringdon Road is often credited as London’s first gastropub and remains a staple.

Food lovers flock to Clerkenwell’s markets. Exmouth Market is lined with trendy cafes like Caravan and Moro. Smithfield Market is the UK’s largest wholesale meat market. Whitecross Street Market is popular with City workers, while Leather Lane Market offers everything from fresh juices to fashion accessories.

Sadler’s Wells Theatre is a world renowned venue for contemporary dance, drawing over half a million visitors annually. The nearby Barbican Centre offers theatre, cinema, music and art. Clerkenwell Design Week showcases the best of local and international design through exhibitions and events..

Local amenities

Clerkenwell combines convenience with character. Major supermarkets like Waitrose on St John Street sit alongside quirky independents. The Marx Memorial Library offers 46,000 volumes on Marxism and socialism, while Finsbury Library houses the Islington Museum and Local History Centre.

Fitness options include Finsbury Leisure Centre with outdoor football pitches, Ironmonger Row Baths with Turkish baths and a pool, and Gymbox for high-intensity workouts. Locals shop at Wildabout Flowers for beautiful bouquets and the International Magic Shop for unique gifts.

Local favourites are the authentic Italian Terroni of Clerkenwell, which is England’s oldest Italian deli and has been serving locals since 1878.

Green spaces

Despite its urban setting, Clerkenwell offers pockets of greenery. Spa Fields is tucked behind Exmouth Market and is a popular park with locals, featuring an adventure playground and plenty of space for lunch breaks and weekend relaxation. Other peaceful spots include Myddelton Square Gardens and St James’s Church Garden offer quiet retreats in the heart of the city.