The EC1 postcode encompasses the trendy Clerkenwell, Finsbury and Barbican Estate. It roughly covers the north western corner of the City of London from St Paul's Cathedral and the entire length of Old Street.
The district has a rich and varied history. Clerkenwell is a great example of a local neighbourhood which has undergone dramatic change over time, and it lays claim to a gallery of important historic events and movements. Early records show it played host to Monastic Orders and crypts in the 16th century, while later it housed a number of breweries and printing centres, in addition to providing the backdrop to the Industrial Revolution. In more recent history, the early 20th century gave birth to left wing radicalism around the fabled Clerkenwell Green.
Finsbury is better known for its wealth of internationally renowned and highly respected educational and cultural centres than its historic unrest. Among its more famous landmarks feature the world famous City University, Saddlers Wells Theatre, and the local Exmouth Market.
In terms of the different types of office space in EC1, there is a multitude, many of which contrast enormously. Finsbury, on the north western edge of the square mile, hosts some of the most prestigious grade A serviced office spaces, including several landmark serviced office buildings such as Aldersgate and St Martin’s Le Grand. As you edge westward into the heart of Farringdon, the nature of the office space changes radically. The Media and creative industries dominate the locality, and office space in the vicinity reflects this. Think exposed brickwork throughout converted warehouses, antique wooden floors and lots of light-flushed, open-plan modern spaces. Going north of Farringdon towards St John’s Street and Angel Islington, the office landscape becomes a great deal more cozy, offering up gems of period buildings which tend to be, in general, more affordable.
The office market is fairly diverse in EC1, offering a good stock of both serviced and non-serviced space. Several smaller landlords are competing against the might of the more well-known property groups, often to the benefit of tenants. The healthy supply of serviced office space in this area means that most requirements can be met. An average workstation price within a serviced office property in EC1 will be around the £400-£450 mark.
Well known serviced office providers in the area include The Office Group, Workspace, Abbey Business Centres and Business Environment Group. The large providers are very good at the service they provide, whilst the smaller independents normally offer a more bespoke, community-centred service, which is especially popular with smaller businesses.