A Guide to Picking the Right Area for Your London Office
London is a city buzzing with endless opportunities, cultural diversity, and a dynamic business landscape.
Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur, a growing start-up, or an established corporation, finding the perfect office location in London is crucial for your business’s success.
Here at One One One, we have access to Every London Office, and this means we know a thing or two about the best locations for certain types of businesses.
We know that navigating the labyrinth of London’s real estate can be daunting and that’s why we’ve created this guide to provide tips and information on the different areas, and what they can do for your business.
Let’s take a look.
7 Steps to Knowing Your Ideal London Office Location
Know Your Budget
First things first, establish a clear budget.
London’s office spaces can range from affordable to astronomical, so it’s essential to know your financial limits.
This can have a big impact on where your office can be located, as some areas can be more expensive than others.
Remember to factor in additional costs like service charges, business rates, and maintenance expenses.
Having a clear budget will narrow down your choices and make the search more manageable, only showcasing the areas that fit your finances.
Location, Location, Location
The area where your office is located is important (and that’s why we’re writing a whole blog about it).
Consider your key demographics.
Do you need to be near your clients, suppliers, or partners?
Proximity to transport links is also vital for both your employees and clients.
Areas like Canary Wharf, Shoreditch, or Soho offer different vibes and connections, so choose a location that aligns with your business image and culture.
These are all huge factors in picking a place to work, and you should consider them when picking the perfect area.
Nearby Services & Amenities
What surrounds your office is also important.
You want your employees to feel happy to work in this area, and the local services that are based there play a big part in this.
Do you have local bars and restaurants in which colleagues can have a drink and socialise with each other?
Is there a nearby gym for the fitness-focused employees, as well as shops and entertainment such as cinemas?
Having these on your doorstep can play a huge part in boosting morale. The simple action of heading out during a lunch break to grab a nice coffee or a sandwich can be a big plus to many employees and provide an entertaining break from the office environment.
Network and Community
Being part of a business community can provide networking opportunities and added value.
Some areas in London are known for specific industries – Tech City in East London, for instance, is a hub for tech companies.
Being in the midst of a like-minded community can lead to collaboration and growth.
In these areas, you will often find an abundance of events and other activities taking place that are relevant to your business and employees, and this can really help their growth.
It is also nice to be part of a community of like-minded people, and this can really make an area feel like home.
Test the Waters
Before signing on the dotted line, do a trial run. Spend a day in the area, check out the local amenities, commute during rush hour, and get a feel of the neighbourhood.
Sometimes, the vibe of a place is just as important as its practical aspects.
This is an absolutely vital step that we always suggest to our clients. You can never really get to know a place without being a part of it, so spend some time there soaking it in before you come to the conclusion that this is the area for you.
Key Locations for London Office Space
London is packed with diverse neighbourhoods, each with its unique flavour and business advantages.
Let’s dive into some key locations in London and explore what they are best suited for in terms of office space and business environments:
- The City of London – Best known for finance and professional services. The City of London, also known as the Square Mile, is the historical and financial heart of London. Home to the Bank of England and the London Stock Exchange, it’s a powerhouse for financial services, banking, and insurance companies. The area exudes professionalism and prestige, making it ideal for businesses looking for a reputable address and proximity to major financial institutions.
- Canary Wharf – Best known for corporate giants and finance. Canary Wharf is a modern financial district located in the East End. It’s home to major banks, media companies, and legal firms. With its high-rise buildings and sleek office spaces, it’s perfect for corporate giants looking for a cutting-edge, professional environment. The area also offers excellent transport links, including the Jubilee Line and the Elizabeth Line.
- Shoreditch and Tech City – Best known for creatives and tech start-ups. Shoreditch is London’s vibrant and eclectic tech hub. Known for its creative and entrepreneurial spirit, it’s the go-to place for tech startups, digital agencies, and innovative SMEs. The area’s industrial-chic warehouses converted into trendy office spaces make it an attractive location for businesses looking to foster creativity and collaboration.
- Soho – Best known for media and entertainment. With its bustling streets and bohemian history, Soho is the epicentre of London’s media and entertainment industry. It’s home to numerous advertising agencies, film and production companies, and publishing houses. Soho’s lively atmosphere, coupled with a plethora of cafes and restaurants, makes it a dynamic location for businesses in the creative sectors.
- South Bank and Waterloo – Best known for arts and culture. South Bank stretches along the Thames and incorporates Waterloo. This area is a cultural hub known for its arts and entertainment venues. With landmarks like the National Theatre and Tate Modern, it’s an inspiring location for businesses in the arts and culture sectors and creative industries. The area also offers a mix of modern and traditional office spaces with stunning riverside views.
- Paddington and King’s Cross – Best known for connectivity and growth. For this choice, we have selected two of the most well-connected areas not just in London, but in the world. With major rail hubs providing excellent connectivity across the UK and to Europe (via the Eurostar), Paddington and King’s Cross are ideal for businesses that require strong transport links. They also offer a mix of modern office developments and charming historical buildings.
- Westminster – Best known for the government and public sector. Located in the heart of London, Westminster is the political hub of the UK. It’s home to government offices, embassies, and think tanks. For businesses looking to be close to the UK’s political centre, or those working closely with government departments, Westminster offers both prestige and proximity.
Find Your Perfect London Office Space with One One One
London is a vast place filled with different areas. One thing all locations have in common is that they offer something amazing to any business lucky enough to find an office there.
Here at One One One, our team of agents would love to help you find your dream home for your business.
We will work with you, getting to know your business and your workforce, before suggesting locations and offices that fit the bill.
Want to know more? Then get in touch today. Or alternatively, why not fill out our build-your-own office tool and get the ball rolling right away?