Marsh & Parsons in Clerkenwell
Steeped in history, and awash with artistic influence, Clerkenwell’s attractive streets are surprisingly quaint considering its central location. A hub for young creatives and couples, those looking to live in Clerkenwell will do well to start with flats, since most of the properties in the area come from converted warehouses and contemporary developments. You will be able to find a few beautiful Victorian and Georgian houses, with those on City Road and Chequer Street being especially popular. Hundreds of Italian families emigrated to Clerkenwell in the 1870s, and the area has managed to hold on to its Italian charm since – you’ll understand why so many chose to move here after a stroll on its cobbled streets.
Living in Clerkenwell
Promising the essence of Victorian London with all the modern benefits, Clerkenwell attracts those who want the best of both worlds. With more artistic and architectural firms per square mile than anywhere else in the world, it’s unsurprising that the other establishments in the area have adapted to match. Exmouth Market, located on a semi-pedestrianised street in the heart of Clerkenwell, is home to a range of street food stalls, as well as permanent shops, bars and restaurants. Among their ranks is Grind: a coffee shop that opens at 7am and closes at 2am for those who want to start their day with a latte and end it with an espresso martini. Iconic restaurants abound, The Modern Pantry and St. Johns are just a couple that use minimalist ideas and delicious ingredients to treat their customers to a unique dining experience. Mixing food and history, Smithfield Market, which is housed in a Grade II-listed building, promises visitors a step back in time, especially if they arrive early in the morning.
For those who want to see art in action, you can head over to Sadler’s Wells Theatre, which opened back in 1683. One of the world’s leading dance venues, it features two performance spaces: a 1,500 seat main auditorium and the Lilian Baylis Studio. Or, for a dip into the area’s iconic past, you can visit the Charles Dickens museum and observe where classics such as Oliver Twist and Pickwick Papers were written. Afterwards, meander down to Clerkenwell Green to see where Fagin and the Artful Dodger taught Oliver how to pickpocket.
Don’t miss: Terroni & Sons, the city’s oldest Italian delicatessen, which is situated on Clerkenwell Road, next to the beautiful St Peter’s Roman Catholic Church.
Go Back
Based on reviews
