Exploring Clerkenwell: London's Hidden Gem

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EXPLORING CLERKENWELL
London's Hidden Gem
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Introduction
Clerkenwell is a small and but incredibly
interesting neighborhood of Central London,
settled next to famous locations like Kings
Cross and Barbican. One could happily get lost
amongst the stately Georgian terraces, crowded
pubs, and endearing little museums of
Clerkenwell. Ready to explore? Here is the list
of the best places to visit in Clerkenwell,
London
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Smithfield Market
History buffs must visit the Smithfield Market.
It is believed to be one of the largest wholesale
meat markets in Europe and the UK, a site that
has operated for over 800 years. While it now
focuses largely on selling goods to other
wholesalers, guided tours are offered if you want
to check out the Victorian architecture of the
building or learn more about its history.
However, one thing to bear in mind is that it is
working as a commercial hub from early morning
from midnight until 7 am.
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Exmouth Market
Exmouth Market retains Clerkenwell's village
atmosphere, which makes the area appealing. This
lively street is packed with local pubs, coffee
shops, florists, and various small shops. Whether
you are in search of local, authentic artisan
products or want an exciting ambiance with a
bustling street atmosphere, Exmouth Market
certainly encapsulates the friendly Clerkenwell
community market. After spending a morning here,
you can easily head back for some fine dining at
Cempaka Kensington, where international flavors
meet Kensingtons vibrant dining scene.
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Charles Dickens Museum
Every London borough walk should end with a
museum visit, and you can not miss Clerkenwell's
Charles Dickens Museum. The museum is in the
house where Dickens was born and raised. Here,
you can get a glimpse of the rooms in which he
wrote many of his best-known novels, including
Oliver Twist. For literary lovers, it is a peek
into the life of one of literature's giants.
Currently, the museum runs between Wednesdays and
Sundays charging an admission fee of 7. 50.
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The Postal Museum
Surprisingly, The Postal Museum is much more than
collections of stamps, coins, and other similar
items you may wish to envision. It explores the
evolution of communication right from the early
postal services up to the present day, offering
various exhibitions. A highlight includes the
prospect of viewing early stamps with a picture
of King Charles instead of the late Queen
Elizabeth. The museum is open from Wednesday to
Sunday, and the tickets are relatively cheap if
they are booked online.
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Shopping on Leather Lane
Despite the name Leather Lane, there are not many
leather stores on the street however, it is a
wonderful street market that sells a variety of
great food vendors, meats and cheeses, and other
curious items. While it is closed on weekends, it
is a popular place for grabbing a meal during
weekdays or buying flowers and groceries. If
you're staying in a Kensington hotel in London
and looking for a place to grab some authentic
local flavors during the week, this is a
fantastic place to stop by.
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Sadler's Wells Theatre
For those who enjoy theatre with special
attention to dance, Sadler's Wells is a theatre
with a history that focuses on this kind of
performance. From modern dancing to royal ballet,
there is always something interesting and
captivating to watch. The tickets are usually
cheap, which makes them a very good cultural
point for most people.
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Discover Little Italy
Clerkenwell shall always be considered the
Little Italy of London and will continue to be
a home for Italian immigrants who discovered
their way into this area and brought along their
traditions and culture. One of the most famous
local landmarks is St. Peter's church which has
been an important congregation hub for residents
here. You can also read 7 Fascinating Facts
About the Albert Memorial
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Conclusion
London is lucky to have the lively Clerkenwell as
one of its patchwork neighborhoods equal parts
old-world charm and new-world vigor. The true
spirit of the city comes alive in every market,
every food, and every attraction you witness when
exploring Clerkenwell. So, the next time you are
in the city, venture out and explore this
little-known gem, as it will be worth the visit.