One of the best things about living in London is the 24/7 culture. Whatever time, day or night, you can usually find something going on. If you are hungry at 3am, pop down to the famous bagel shop on Brick Lane, open 24 hours a day. If you get in the mood for dancing and romancing on a Monday evening, head to the West End. If you want something alternative, head to the gay village in Vauxhall; the bars and clubs are rarely closed!

You might think to live somewhere perfectly positioned between all of the above attractions, you would have to expect some noise. Perhaps a bit of late-night drinking and shouting, or a faint throb of a nearby dancefloor, perhaps intermittent slamming of car-doors at a taxi-office. You probably wouldn’t expect to find somewhere quiet, with a village atmosphere, with local businesses and local restaurants where people greet you by name.

If you have been to Clerkenwell, you would.

Nestled in a Central London triangle of Kings Cross, Angel and Farringdon, Clerkenwell is one of those places you don’t expect to find in a city like London. Then you remember the size of a city like London is the perfect place where somewhere like Clerkenwell should have room to exist.

Running through the heart of Clerkenwell is Exmouth Market. This narrow pedestrianised street allows you to…take your time. Take a stroll down and visit of the many independent shops on the route. Then stop at one of the cafes, or bars if you want something stronger. If it’s Friday or Saturday, stock up with fresh produce from the weekly food market.

If you want a pub, visit the Three Kings. This unique, friendly and colourful pub is situated opposite the church, near Clerkenwell Green. Bear in mind Clerkenwell is a popular location among creative industries with thirsty workers, so the pub gets very busy on a Friday night. Visit during the week to really experience its relaxed character.

Did I mention Clerkenwell Green? Charles Dickens wrote about this village square in Oliver Twist, as the location where Fagin and The Artful Dodger teach Oliver all about the art of pickpocketing. There is nothing green here now but around the corner, in between Exmouth Market and Bowling Green Lane is a park where you can relax.

It’s small, it’s friendly, it’s a village in the middle of London – it’s Clerkenwell.

Article written by Steve Alphabet for TIC Blog