A Neighbourhood Full of Character
Clerkenwell isn’t just a place on the map - it’s a story. Once home to monastic orders and the printing presses that gave rise to London’s literary boom, today it’s a vibrant fusion of old and new. Cobbled streets rub shoulders with sleek apartments. Local cafés hum with freelancers by day and transform into intimate wine bars by night.
For landlords, this blend of history and modern living makes Clerkenwell a hotbed for rental demand - especially among professionals working in the City or creatives in nearby Shoreditch and King’s Cross. And for tenants, it offers the rare London combo: charm, convenience, and community.
Whether you're letting out a warehouse conversion or searching for a home minutes from Farringdon, understanding the local market is key.
Why Choose Clerkenwell?
Clerkenwell’s appeal isn’t just skin-deep. Its central location - within walking distance of the Square Mile, yet far enough to feel like its own village - makes it a smart choice for commuters and culture-lovers alike.
Connectivity: With Farringdon now on the Elizabeth Line, residents can get from Clerkenwell to Canary Wharf or Heathrow faster than ever. King’s Cross St Pancras opens up Eurostar connections and links across the UK.
Heritage Meets Trend: Once known for its monastic wells (hence the name), Clerkenwell evolved into a hub for watchmakers, printers and radical thinkers. That legacy lives on in its unique architecture - from Georgian townhouses to industrial-style lofts.
Lifestyle: Smithfield Market, Exmouth Market, St John’s Square - the area is a haven for foodies, with legendary institutions like St. JOHN and newer gems popping up regularly. It’s easy to see why renters fall in love with the place.
This character and convenience translate into steady rental yields and strong tenant loyalty - a winning combination for landlords.
What Landlords Should Know
Letting in Clerkenwell is an exciting opportunity - but a competitive one. To stand out and attract the right tenants:
- Know your property’s strengths: Is it a sleek new-build or a period conversion with original features? Each appeals to a different tenant base.
- Price it right: Market trends shift quickly here. A professional valuation ensures your rent is competitive without underselling.
- Stay compliant: You’ll need valid gas and electrical safety certificates, an EPC, and awareness of updates like the Renters Reform Bill.
Winkworth Clerkenwell & City can help navigate all of this - ensuring you stay compliant, competitive, and profitable.
Understanding Landlord Fees and Costs
Being a landlord in Clerkenwell comes with its fair share of costs - but understanding them upfront helps avoid surprises later.
- Letting agent fees: These vary based on the level of service - from tenant find only, to full property management.
- Maintenance and repairs: From annual boiler servicing to unexpected fixes, having a budget set aside is essential.
- Tax implications: Rental income must be declared. Seeking guidance from a property accountant can help you structure things efficiently.
Choosing a transparent, experienced estate agent makes a big difference - and can ultimately protect your returns.
What Tenants Can Expect
Renting in Clerkenwell means becoming part of a connected, creative community. But it also means understanding your rights and responsibilities from the outset.
Since the Tenant Fees Act, charges are far more transparent. Expect to pay a deposit (typically capped at 5 weeks' rent) - but nothing hidden or unexpected.
Good agents (like Winkworth Clerkenwell & City!) will provide a clear tenancy agreement and handle things like referencing, maintenance coordination, and rent collection. As a tenant, all you need to do is:
- Pay rent on time
- Look after the property
- Know your contract
The rest? We've got you.
The Letting Process, Step-by-Step
Letting a property in Clerkenwell should feel seamless. Here’s how we make it happen:
- Valuation – We assess your property’s value based on local demand, condition, and comparable lets.
- Marketing – From professional photos to reaching our database of pre-qualified tenants, we ensure your property gets noticed.
- Viewings & Offers – We handle all enquiries, filter serious applicants, and present you with qualified offers.
- Tenant Referencing – Background checks, proof of income, previous landlord references - done thoroughly.
- Contracts & Compliance – Tenancy agreements drafted, safety certificates checked, deposits protected.
- Move-in Support – Inventory completed, keys handed over, everything documented.
And if you choose a fully managed service, we continue to look after the tenancy for you - rent collection, maintenance, renewals and all.
Property Management: DIY or Delegated?
Some landlords prefer the hands-on approach. Others want the peace of mind that comes with professional management. In Clerkenwell, where tenant expectations are high and demand moves fast, outsourcing can be a smart investment.
At Winkworth Clerkenwell, we offer:
- Let Only – We find the tenant. You manage the rest.
- Rent Collection – We collect monthly rent and follow up on arrears.
- Fully Managed – We handle every detail - from maintenance to compliance - so you don’t have to.
Whatever your preference, we tailor our services to fit.
Legal & Compliance: What You Need to Know
Letting in Clerkenwell means playing by the rules - and there are quite a few:
- Gas Safety Certificate (CP12) – Must be renewed annually.
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) – Required every 5 years.
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – Must meet minimum energy efficiency standards.
- Deposit Protection – Tenancy deposits must be held in a government-approved scheme.
- Licensing – Some properties (especially HMOs) may require a licence from the local council.
We also recommend obtaining a Portable Appliance Test and a Legionnaires Report, as Landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that the appliances are safe to use and the property free from Legionnaires.
And with rental legislation evolving fast, it pays to have experts on hand to keep you up to date.
In Summary
Clerkenwell isn’t just another London postcode - it’s a place with history, personality, and huge potential for landlords and tenants alike.
Whether you’re looking to let out a warehouse loft or find a home near Exmouth Market, the key is knowledge - of the area, the market, and the legal landscape.
At Winkworth Clerkenwell & City, we bring local insight, expert guidance, and a personal touch to every property we manage. Get in touch today - we’d love to help.