Clerkenwell- The Perfect Guide 4 March 2024

Nestled in the heart of Clerkenwell, The Zetter Clerkenwell and Marrable’s Hotel are just a stones throw away from fascinating history, ingenious restaurants and plenty of independent shops and cobbled streets, just waiting to be explored. Here is our Clerkenwell guide, to ensure you make the most of your stay!

5 Minutes from St John’s Square

If you don’t fancy straying too far from the comfort of your hotel room, there is still so much to see and learn. Only a minute from our doorstep is The Museum of the Order of St John, seeped in history, with original foundations dating back to the 1100s- you may even be able to see the arch from your bedroom window. Visit the museum for free or book a guided tour for a more in-depth historical experience. In the square is the Cloister Garden, an oasis for people and nature, features a medicinal herb garden, and is the perfect spot to meet friends, or enjoy quiet time.

Smithfield Market is one of London’s oldest markets, dating back almost 1000 years. Historically specialising in livestock, the market is now host to many meat traders, alongside accompanying items like cheeses, oils and olives. They say the best time to go is before 6am, when the market will be in full swing, as traders arrive from midnight. However, if you aren’t an early riser, there is still amazing history in the Smithfield area, which used to be a large field separating London City from Clerkenwell.

10 Minutes from St John’s Square

If you are looking to explore a little further, Exmouth Market is a hidden gem right in the heart of Clerkenwell! This place is a foodie’s paradise, with a ton of cool spots to grab a bite. From cosy cafes serving up the perfect brunch, to funky little joints dishing out flavours from around the globe, you’re spoiled for choice. But it’s not just about the food – Exmouth Market has bags of personality, with indie shops, quirky boutiques, and laid-back bars lining the streets. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours just wandering around, soaking up the atmosphere and discovering something new around every corner.

If you are looking to soak up some of Clerkenwell’s culture, head to Sadlers Wells Theatre. Since 1683, Sadler’s Wells Theatre has been a beloved entertainment hub. The current venue, established in 1998, marks the sixth iteration on this historic site. With a 1,500-seat auditorium, they showcase captivating performances by top-tier national and international dance companies and artists, offering audiences a remarkable experience of large-scale dance productions.

Further Afield

The world really is your oyster being based in Clerkenwell, with brilliant transport routes and links to the whole of London. With Farringdon just around the corner, you could be on the Elizabeth Line or National Rail within minutes. London has so much to offer, so once you have finished with Clerkenwell, why not explore further afield.

We are always looking for new and exciting things to do in the area, if you think there is something we have missed, please let us know and we can keep adding to our Clerkenwell guide!