Clerkenwell, Historic neighborhood in Central London, United Kingdom
Clerkenwell is a neighborhood in Central London, located between the City and Islington, known for its narrow streets, converted industrial buildings, and design studios. Small parks, cobbled courtyards, and low brick houses alternate with modern offices and cafés throughout the area.
In the 12th century, clerics gave the place its name after the Clerks' Well in Farringdon Lane, where medieval scribes performed religious plays. Later, a seat of the Knights Hospitaller was established here, and from the 19th century onward the neighborhood became a center for Italian immigrants in London.
During the 19th century, immigrants from Italy settled here and opened cafés, food shops, and workshops. Today, some street names and businesses still recall this period, though the neighborhood now hosts agencies, studios, and bars.
Several underground stations such as Farringdon and Barbican lie within walking distance and connect the neighborhood to other parts of the city. Many streets are steep or narrow, so comfortable footwear is recommended for longer walks through the lanes.
The gate of St John, a preserved 16th-century passageway, still stands today as a remnant of the former priory of the Knights Hospitaller. Visitors can enter the courtyard and examine the old bricks and arches up close.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
