Out of all Podium’s central London locations, Bloomsbury is our pick of the bunch! There are many reasons to love working and spending time in this gorgeous pocket of the capital, and a quick Google search will tell you that it’s the “intellectual and literary capital of London”; an academic and cultural hub, close to the British Museum and University College London and has good transport links. All of these are true, but for our clients, it’s not only the great location, with multiple tube stations nearby and on the doorstep of Oxford Street shopping heaven, but the many small elements that bring joy to a regular day.
Russell Square Gardens:
Created in the early 1800s, this large space is open to the public and you will find residents, local workers and students enjoying the area throughout the year. Particularly attractive in spring and autumn, it’s big enough for a lunchtime stroll, and there are events such as the Bloomsbury festival which are held here. The jewel in the Bloomsbury Square crown is Caffe Tropea, a family run Italian cafe, where you can indulge in traditional favourites such as cannoli and sfogliatella, along with a really decent cup of Italian coffee.
Did you know there are 16 squares in Bloomsbury, making it the greenest corner of London!
The architecture:
Every step is a feast for the eyes, from the minute you step off the tube at Russell Square’s distinctive Art Nouveau underground station. Russell Square itself is filled with Victorian, Edwardian and Georgian architecture. The decorative details and grand facades of Podium’s flex offices at 44 Russell Square is a prime example, offering beautiful period features: high ceilings, fireplaces, cornicing and more. The property’s prominent location on the corner of the square makes it a true landmark property.
The community:
With the gardens providing community hubs for local residents, students and businesses, this is one of the friendliest areas of London. Groups of gardening volunteers regularly meet at Brunswick and Russell Squares and there are many free events throughout the year. The Bloomsbury Festival sets the area buzzing with dramatic productions, art exhibitions, guided walks and more.
The vibe:
The vibe of this area is relaxed and young, and really cool! Not just close to UCL, there are American university study centres, such as the University of California, the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. It was Bloomsbury publishing, in 1997, who agreed to publish what ended up being the most profitable book deal of all time – the Harry Potter series.
It’s a great day out:
You can have a great day out in Bloomsbury – museums and bookshops a plenty (and there’s a lot more to it than The British Museum!). And to finish your day there are a vast number of pubs and bars. From the Grade II listed The Lamb, to upmarket cocktails at The Bloomsbury Club, there’s something for every taste and budget (though a bit thin on “cheap and cheerful”!)
Our clients agree, Bloomsbury is a really great place to work. Well connected and central. Close to the City but also close to Soho and the West End.
Talk to us about bringing your business to Bloomsbury and being part of the buzz. We invited film maker Anna Harvey to spend the afternoon in our Bloomsbury coworking space, and she loved the area as much as we do!