Clerkenwell London Area Guide

Clerkenwell offers a unique lifestyle with a mix of old-world charm and modern living. It’s known for its cobbled streets, Georgian townhouses, and trendy, converted warehouses, making it a haven for professionals, creatives, and families alike. In 2024, Clerkenwell continues to be a hub for design, media, and technology professionals, due to its proximity to the City of London and Tech City in Shoreditch.One of the highlights of life in Clerkenwell is its burgeoning food scene. From Michelin-star restaurants like St. John to traditional English pubs such as The Jerusalem Tavern, Clerkenwell caters to every taste. Exmouth Market remains a popular destination for foodies, featuring street food stalls and cafes offering cuisines from around the world. Clerkenwell also has a reputation for artisan coffee shops and bakeries, which contribute to the vibrant local culture.Clerkenwell is not just a haven for food lovers but also for history buffs. Sites like St. John’s Gate, dating back to the 16th century, and the Museum of London, showcasing the city’s medieval and Roman history, attract locals and tourists alike. The area has a balanced community feel, offering residents everything from lively nightlife to quiet green spaces like Spa Fields Park for those who want to relax.

The cost of living in Clerkenwell is higher than the London average, as it remains one of the most desirable locations in central London. As of 2024, the following costs reflect the current living expenses in the area:

• Utilities: On average, monthly utility bills (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection) range between £175-£220 depending on the size of the property.
• Groceries: The cost of groceries for a single person averages around £250-£300 per month, with a family of four spending closer to £500-£600.
• Transport: With excellent transport links, most residents opt for an Oyster Card for public transport, which costs around £160 per month for Zones 1-3 travel.
• Dining Out: A meal at a mid-range restaurant in Clerkenwell averages £35 per person, with high-end dining in Michelin-starred restaurants costing closer to £90-£150 per person.
• Entertainment: Monthly gym memberships cost around £50-£80, while cinema tickets average £15.

These costs may be higher than in some other parts of London, but residents are drawn to Clerkenwell for its accessibility to central London, high quality of life, and thriving community.

Rental prices in Clerkenwell reflect its prime location and sought-after status. As of 2024, rental rates have increased slightly, in line with the London property market’s general trend. Here are the average rental prices for different types of properties:

• 1-bedroom apartment: £2,400-£2,900 per month
• 2-bedroom apartment: £3,300-£4,300 per month
• 3-bedroom apartment or house: £4,800-£6,000 per month

Rental prices are dependent on proximity to key transport links like Farringdon Station and the overall amenities offered within the apartment or building. Many properties in Clerkenwell come with high-end features, from modern kitchens to private terraces and shared gardens, which often justify the premium rates. The demand for rental properties in this area remains robust, especially among young professionals and families looking for a central yet community-oriented neighborhood.

Clerkenwell is one of the best-connected areas in London, thanks to its excellent public transport links. In 2024, the transport network continues to make commuting and travel convenient for its residents. Farringdon Station, located in the heart of Clerkenwell, is a major hub offering access to the Circle, Hammersmith & City, and Metropolitan lines. Additionally, the Elizabeth Line (Crossrail), fully operational since 2023, has made travelling to the City of London, Canary Wharf, and Heathrow Airport quicker and more efficient.For those who prefer buses, Clerkenwell is served by numerous bus routes, including the 55, 243, and 341, which connect residents to key areas like Oxford Circus, Holborn, and Shoreditch. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport in Clerkenwell, with designated bike lanes and docking stations for Santander Cycles located throughout the neighborhood.Walking is another major perk of living in Clerkenwell. The area’s proximity to central London means many residents can walk to the City of London, Covent Garden, or King’s Cross within 15-20 minutes. This makes it an ideal location for professionals working in these areas who want to avoid the busy tube.

Families relocating to Clerkenwell will find a range of excellent schools, both state and private, for children of all ages. The 2024 school rankings highlight several top-performing schools in the area:

• Clerkenwell Parochial School: A highly regarded Church of England primary school offering a well-rounded education, with a focus on academic achievement and personal development.
• Central Foundation Boys’ School: A top-rated secondary school known for its strong academic record and emphasis on extracurricular activities.
• City of London Academy Islington: Another popular choice for secondary education, this school has a reputation for its robust academic programs and commitment to student success.

For international families, Clerkenwell is within easy reach of several international schools, such as the International School of London and Lyceé Français Charles de Gaulle, offering bilingual education options.Additionally, the area’s proximity to prestigious universities like University College London (UCL) and The London School of Economics (LSE) makes it an attractive location for academics and university students.

Clerkenwell has long been known as the creative and design capital of London, a reputation that continues to grow in 2024. The area hosts a thriving artistic community, partly due to Clerkenwell Design Week, which celebrates architecture and interior design. During this annual event, exhibitors from the UK and abroad set up stalls and workshops across the neighborhood to showcase their work.The area’s culture extends beyond design. Clerkenwell has museums, galleries, and historic sites that attract history and art lovers. The nearby Museum of London highlights the city’s history, from its Roman roots to modern developments. Charles Dickens’ House, a short walk away, is a popular museum celebrating the British author’s life.Clerkenwell residents also enjoy a vibrant bar and restaurant scene, offering everything from traditional pubs to international cuisine. Many of these venues are in historic buildings, adding to the area’s charm. For instance, the Jerusalem Tavern, dating back to the 14th century, is one of London’s oldest pubs and remains a favorite among locals.