Things to do in trendy Clerkenwell this summer – a different kind of London break

This blog is brought to you in collaboration with the team at hotel booking engine myhotelbreak.

Clerkenwell has a lot to offer to visitors and all in walking distance of The Postal Museum. Its boutique shops, ancient pubs and hidden gardens will no doubt charm you.

Next time you’re visiting London get off the typical tourist track and see what Clerkenwell has to offer for yourself. Here’s some top spots to get you started on your adventure.

Exmouth Market

Exmouth Market © secretldn.com

When looking to explore the area of Clerkenwell, popping along the famous Exmouth Market should definitely be part of your itinerary. The area has a real boutique feel to it with many pop-up restaurants and bars popular with the local after-work crowd and Londoners at the weekend. A regular street market adds to the fun and lively atmosphere, especially at lunch times (Monday- Friday only).

Address: Exmouth Market, Farringdon, London (Website)

Sadler’s Wells Theatre

Sadler’s Wells Theatre © theatretokens.com

If you’re looking for something a bit different, we suggest a visit to the amazing Sadler’s Wells Theatre. This performing arts venue is the number one place in London dedicated to international dance – presenting dance in all forms from contemporary to flamenco, ballet to hip hop and more.

Address: Rosebery Ave, Clerkenwell, London EC1R 4TN (Website)

Calthorpe Project Community Garden

Calthrope Project © londonist.com

This hidden gem is situated halfway between Kings Cross St. Pancras and The Postal Museum. It’s the perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. They grow their own fruit and veg and you can enjoy it for yourself in their sustainable café.

Address: 258-274 Grays Inn Rd, London WC1X 8LH (Website)

The Jerusalem Tavern

The Jerusalem Tavern © standard.co.uk

If you’re after a glass of refreshing beverage after your visit to the museum and the local area, then this cosy pub ticks all the boxes. There’s an excellent range of beers and ales, all housed in this wonderful 18th-century wooden interior.

Not quite as old as it might look, the Tavern has occupied several sites in the area since the 14th century and the current building dates from 1720. It’s named after the Priory of St. John of Jerusalem; founded in 1140.

Address: 55 Britton St, Farringdon, London EC1M 5UQ (Website)

St. Andrew’s Gardens & Spa Fields

St Andrew’s Gardens © londongardensonline.org.uk

Spa Fields © playfinder.com

One of our favourite spots around the corner from The Postal Museum are St. Andrew’s Gardens and the park of Spa Fields. These green areas are perfect to relax with a picnic during the summer months. Make sure you add one of them to your plan for before or after your visit to the museum.

Address for St. Andrew’s Gardens: 3 Langton Cl, Wren St, London WC1X 0HD

Address for Spa Fields: 91 Skinner St, Farringdon, London EC1R 0WX

Clerkenwell’s Little Italy

Clerkenwell’s Little Italy © british-history.ac.uk

Clerkenwell, known as London’s ‘Little Italy’ during 1850s, still has a large Italian community to this day. After popping your head around the door of a stunning Italian church pop into one of the oldest Italian delicatessen in London – Terroni of Clerkenwell – on Clerkenwell Road and choose from a dizzying array of antipasti, salami and other delights.

Address: 138-140 Clerkenwell Rd, Clerkenwell, London EC1R 5DL (Website)

Sun, fun and great memories at The Postal Museum

The Postal Museum loves the warm months and through the summer period of July and August, there are an amazing array of family-friendly activities taking place in the museum’s must-visit leafy courtyard.

No matter when you come, there’s something for everyone in the courtyard during the summer season. From seaside-themed arts and crafts specials to storytelling, a series of sumptuous BBQs and outdoor games, expect an abundance of activities almost every day.

The Postal Museum’s highlight

There are loads of must-visit attractions at The Postal Museum but the one of note which we had so much fun with and recommended to other visitors is the Mail Rail Ride. Explore and learn about the history of London’s postal railway that goes back 100 years. This experience lasts 15 minutes and gives visitors a real insight into the goings on underground and the people who worked there.

Address: 15-20 Phoenix Pl, London WC1X 0DA (Website)

When on a city break, it’s not only the hotels on offer but also exciting and interesting places to visit in the area that matters to us. We hope you enjoyed our little guide to Clerkenwell’s highlights and if we’re missing your favourites let us know on social.

– The Team myhotelbreak