Pubs & live music
Discover a wide range of local activities, cultural events, recreational opportunities and entertainment options! P16
Adding value to your home
Six proven strategies to boost your home’s value. P18
CONTENTS
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Local Area
Our Corner of London
Living in Prime Central London (PCL)offers a unique combination of prestige, luxury, convenience, and cultural richness that appeals to high-net-worth individuals, international buyers, and those seeking a dynamic, world-class urban lifestyle.
Hidden Gems
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Entertainment
Pubs & Live Music
Whether you’re looking for a pub or bar to play darts, somewhere to play pool or just want to have a look at a menu before you go, please check our picked list below.
Expert Advice
Mortgage Puzzle
In the UK, obtaining a mortgage is the most common method for individuals to purchase property. Mortgages come in various types, each with its own terms, conditions, and repayment structures tailored to suit different financial situations and preferences.
Recommended Eateries Best Local Restaurants Around Your Area
Find local food venues and restaurants that are loved by foodies throughout the neighbourhood – from all-day dining hotspots and cosy gastropubs, to local Japanese restaurants, Instagrammable brunch favourites and unique eateries.
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Adding Value to Your Home
7 Great Strategies
In the realm of real estate, adding value to your home is not just about sprucing up its appearance; it’s an investment that can yield significant returns when done strategically.
EDITORIAL
Work-Haus
ADVERTISING
Simon Peacock DESIGN
Brigita Butvila
Donna Billsborrow Winkworth Magazine is published by Work-Haus Limited. Nothing in this magazine can be reproduced in whole or part without the express permission of the publishers. Transparencies or any other material submitted for publication or any other material are sent at the owner’s risk and while every care is taken. Work-Haus has endeavoured to ensure that all the information in this magazine is accurate at the time of going to press, however prices and details may be subject to change.
Welcome,
Dear Homeowner,
Congratulations on your new home, and welcome to Central London—a district that represents the very heart of the capital, where history, culture, and modern living come together. At Winkworth Central London, we’re delighted to have supported your move and even more delighted to welcome you to this extraordinary community. From the glittering lights of the West End to the quiet lanes lined with historic townhouses, Central London offers a lifestyle that is second to none. Whether it’s a theatre night in Covent Garden, a riverside stroll by St Paul’s, or dining along Exmouth Market, every day brings something new to discover.
This is more than a postcode—it’s London at its most dynamic. World-class dining, centuries of architecture, and hidden garden squares make daily life here both inspiring and convenient. With unrivalled transport links across Underground, Elizabeth line, and mainline stations, the city and the wider world are always within reach. At Winkworth, we see our role as more than property experts. We’re here as your long-term partners in the community, ready to share local knowledge, trusted contacts, and insider recommendations whenever you need them.
Warm regards,
The Winkworth Central London Team
Loving what we do since 1835
Winkworth agents love what they do and pride themselves on having a unique perspective on the entire process of matching people with homes. From the little things we see that others miss, to the neighbourhoods we know like the back of our hands. Because where others see customers, we see people. And where others see houses, we see homes.
Our business model means each and every agent is an established and independent professional in their neighbourhood, making us uniquely positioned to offer you, our clients, a more in-depth and insightful experience.
The Winkworth Team
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Our CORNER of LONDON
Living in Prime Central London offers a unique combination of prestige, luxury, convenience, and cultural richness that appeals to high-net-worth individuals, international buyers, and those seeking a dynamic, world-class urban lifestyle. Central London has dozens of globally recognised landmarks, but has many more places you may not be aware of.
CITY & WEST END
THE PROFESSIONAL APPEAL
The City of London, Clerkenwell, and the West End stand at the heart of the UK’s professional landscape. The City retains its global status as a financial centre, where centuries of heritage meet cutting-edge commerce. Just to the west, Clerkenwell has evolved into a magnet for design firms, architects, and creative specialists, while the West End continues to attract major media, theatre, and entertainment enterprises. Together, these districts form a powerful ecosystem where careers can flourish across a wide spectrum of industries.
This professional mix is reinforced by excellent connectivity. Underground links, Crossrail, and walkable streets ensure that professionals move seamlessly between offices, meetings, and client destinations. For residents, the proximity to such a rich network of opportunities means that career progression and a vibrant urban lifestyle can sit comfortably side by side.
RETAIL & DINING EXPERTISE
The West End is globally renowned for retail, from the flagship stores of Oxford Street to the luxury boutiques of Bond Street and Mayfair. Clerkenwell contributes a more independent
flavour, with design showrooms and niche retailers reflecting its heritage as a centre for craftsmanship. The City, while traditionally more businessfocused, now hosts a growing number of retail destinations that cater to professionals and visitors alike, balancing convenience with quality.
Dining across these areas is equally diverse. Michelin-starred restaurants in the West End sit alongside Clerkenwell’s food markets and innovative eateries, while the City has seen a surge in high-quality dining tailored to both fast-paced business lunches and after-hours socialising. The range on offer ensures that whether residents are looking for fine dining or casual neighbourhood cafés, the choice reflects the cosmopolitan nature of central London living.
CULTURAL & LIFESTYLE AMENITIES
Few parts of London can rival the cultural depth of the West End. Theatreland remains a world leader in performance, while museums, galleries, and concert halls offer yearround enrichment. Clerkenwell, with its design festivals and creative studios, provides a more experimental cultural
offering, often rooted in local community initiatives. Meanwhile, the City’s historic landmarks — from St Paul’s Cathedral to the Barbican Centre — add gravitas to the cultural map, blending heritage with contemporary art and performance.
Lifestyle amenities extend into green spaces and wellness facilities. Lincoln’s Inn Fields and Clerkenwell Green provide moments of calm amid the urban intensity, while members’ clubs, gyms, and wellness studios reflect the professional community’s appetite for balance. The result is an environment where work, culture, and wellbeing are integrated seamlessly into daily life.
PROPERTY & INVESTMENT VALUES
Residential property across the City, West End, and Clerkenwell has long been regarded as both desirable and resilient. In the West End, elegant Georgian and Victorian townhouses stand alongside exclusive new developments, attracting a mix of international buyers and long-term Londoners. Clerkenwell offers warehouse conversions and contemporary apartments that appeal strongly to design-conscious residents and professionals seeking character combined with modern living. In the City, a growing number of high-spec apartments cater to those who want to live at the heart of the financial district.
Investment values across these neighbourhoods benefit from a global reputation for stability. Strong rental demand, particularly from professionals working in nearby industries, provides consistent yields. At the same time, limited supply in such central areas supports long-term capital growth. For investors and residents alike, these locations represent some of the most secure and prestigious property opportunities in London.
BUSINESS HUBS
The City of London continues to anchor global finance, housing banks, law firms, and insurance institutions that set the pace of international commerce. Its concentration of expertise makes it one of the world’s most influential business hubs. Just beyond, Clerkenwell has established itself as a centre of creativity and innovation, with design agencies,
media firms, and start-ups energising its commercial scene. This contrast highlights the strength of central London’s economy — diversity in industry, united by location.
The West End adds a further dimension as a hub for theatre, media, and the wider creative industries. From international advertising agencies to film companies, it plays host to enterprises that shape culture as much as commerce. Together, these districts support an unusually wide range of professional communities, ensuring that the area remains a magnet for talent and investment across multiple sectors.
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Hidden GEMS
OUR PICK OF THE BEST HIDDEN GEMS
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Sir John Soane’s Museum (Holborn)
A historic townhouse packed with art, antiquities, and architectural curiosities, left exactly as Soane designed it. www.soane.org
Postman’s Park (St Paul’s)
A peaceful garden with poignant memorials to ordinary people who died while saving others. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-todo/green-spaces/postmans-park
St Bartholomew-the-Great (Smithfield)
A Norman church founded in 1123, famed for its medieval architecture and film appearances. www.greatstbarts.com
The Charterhouse Charterhouse Square)
Once a monastery, then a Tudor mansion, now a fascinating museum and almshouse. www.thecharterhouse.org
Leather Lane Market (Holborn)
A bustling weekday market known for its diverse street food and lively atmosphere. www.camden.gov.uk/l eather-lane-market
Cecil Court (Covent Garden)
A picturesque street lined with antiquarian bookshops and print dealers. www.cecilcourt.london
Seven Dials Sundial Pillar (Covent Garden)
A striking 17th-century monument at the convergence of seven streets. www.sevendials.co.uk
Lincoln’s Inn Fields (Holborn)
London’s largest public square, surrounded by legal chambers and historic buildings. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-todo/green-spaces/lincolns-inn-fields
Smithfield Rotunda Garden (City)
A small landscaped park above the Farringdon Crossrail interchange. www.cityoflondon.gov.uk/things-todo/green-spaces/smithfield-rotundagarden
Hunterian Museum
Lincoln’s Inn Fields)
A free museum of surgery and anatomy within the Royal College of Surgeons. www.rcseng.ac.uk/museums-andarchives/hunterian-museum
St Bride’s Church (Fleet Street)
Known as the “Journalists’ Church,” with a spire said to have inspired tiered wedding cakes. www.stbrides.com
Gray’s Inn Walks (Holborn)
Elegant 17th-century gardens, open seasonally, offering tranquillity in the city. www.graysinn.org.uk/visiting/ grays-inn-walks
Featured partner
Featured partner
Best
LOCAL RESTAURANTS
The Wolseley (Piccadilly)
OUR PICK OF THE LOCAL RESTAURANTS
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A grand café in the European tradition, celebrated for its all-day dining. From elegant breakfasts and afternoon teas to refined evening meals, it’s a place where glamour meets comfort. Its soaring ceilings, marble pillars, and art-deco design make it one of London’s most iconic dining rooms. www.thewolseley.com
Barrafina (Soho)
Counter-top dining at its most authentic. Barrafina’s open kitchen serves up exquisite Spanish tapas made with the freshest seasonal ingredients. Expect dishes like chorizo, croquetas, and razor clams, all enjoyed in a lively and convivial atmosphere.
www.barrafina.co.uk
Kiln (Soho)
Inspired by the rural cooking of Northern Thailand, Kiln is renowned for its fiery flavours and unique methods, using clay pots, wood grills, and woks over flames. Its ever-changing menu and Bib Gourmand recognition make it both rustic and inventive. www.kilnsoho.com
Bob Bob Ricard (Soho)
Glamorous, decadent, and playful, Bob Bob Ricard is famous for its “Press for Champagne” buttons at every table. Offering Anglo-Russian dishes in art-deco splendour, it delivers indulgence with a touch of theatre.
www.bobbobricard.co.uk
Rules (Covent Garden)
London’s oldest restaurant, established in 1798, Rules is steeped in history. It specialises in traditional British cuisine, particularly game, oysters, and hearty puddings, served in richly decorated, atmospheric rooms.
www.rules.co.uk
The Palomar (Soho)
A vibrant dining spot inspired by Jerusalem’s culinary scene, The Palomar serves modern Middle Eastern dishes bursting with spice and flavour. With its open kitchen and buzzing bar, it’s intimate, lively, and stylish.
www.thepalomar.co.uk
Dishoom (Covent Garden)
Inspired by the Irani cafés of Bombay, Dishoom combines nostalgia with outstanding Indian cooking. Its signature dishes, from black daal to bacon naan rolls, are served in a warm, welcoming space full of character and charm. www.dishoom.com
St. JOHN (Smithfield)
A pioneer of nose-to-tail dining, Fergus Henderson’s St. JOHN is a landmark of modern British cuisine. With an emphasis on simple, honest cooking and seasonal ingredients, it has influenced chefs across the globe. www.stjohnrestaurant.com
Moro (Exmouth Market)
A Clerkenwell institution blending Spanish and Moorish influences. Its open kitchen, wood-fired oven, and rustic atmosphere make it a favourite for mezze, slow-cooked lamb, and inventive desserts. www.moro.co.uk
Luca (Clerkenwell)
Serving refined Italian food with a modern London sensibility, Luca is renowned for handmade pasta, exceptional produce, and sophisticated design. Perfect for both special occasions and relaxed dining with flair. www.luca.restaurant
The Quality Chop House (Farringdon)
Established in 1869, this historic restaurant offers traditional British dishes in a beautifully preserved dining room. Its legendary confit potatoes and hearty seasonal menus are the stuff of culinary legend. www.thequalitychophouse.com
Angler (Moorgate)
A Michelin-starred seafood restaurant on the top floor of the South Place Hotel. Its refined plates showcase the very best British fish and shellfish, paired with cityscape views and sleek, contemporary interiors. www.anglerrestaurant.com
PUBS & LIVE
Music
OUR PICK OF THE LOCAL PUBS
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Ronnie Scott’s (Soho)
One of the world’s most famous jazz clubs, hosting top international performers since 1959. www.ronniescotts.co.uk
100 Club (Oxford Street)
Historic basement venue showcasing legendary acts from punk to modern indie. www.the100club.co.uk
Fabric (Farringdon)
World-renowned nightclub with cutting-edge electronic music and iconic sound systems. www.fabriclondon.com
The French House (Soho)
A quirky pub famous for half-pints, artists, and theatre folk. www.frenchhousesoho.com
Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese (Fleet Street)
A maze-like 17th-century pub, rebuilt after the Great Fire, with literary history.
www.fullers.co.uk/pubs/ye-oldecheshire-cheese
The Lamb & Flag (Covent Garden)
A 17th-century pub once known for prize fights; today, a cosy spot for pints. www.lambandflagcoventgarden. co.uk
The Harp (Chandos Place) Award-winning alehouse with stained glass windows and excellent cask ales. www.harpcoventgarden.com
The Jerusalem Tavern (Clerkenwell) Atmospheric pub dating to the 14th century, now serving St Peter’s beers. www.stpetersbrewery.co.uk/ jerusalem-tavern
The Sekforde (Clerkenwell)
A beautifully restored Georgian pub offering craft beer and locally sourced dining.
www.thesekforde.com
The Old Bank of England Fleet Street)
A grand Victorian pub in the former bank building, with ornate interiors./ www.oldbankofengland.co.uk
The Toucan (Soho)
A tiny basement bar dedicated to Guinness and Irish whiskey. www.thetoucanbar.com
The Piano Works (Farringdon)
A live music venue where musicians only play songs requested by the audience.
www.pianoworks.bar
In the UK, obtaining a mortgage is the most common method for individuals to purchase property. Mortgages come in various types, each with its own terms, conditions, and repayment structures tailored to suit different financial situations and preferences. Here are some of the different types of mortgages available.
A fixed-rate mortgage offers borrowers the stability of having the same interest rate for a set period, typically ranging from two to ten years. Regardless of fluctuations in the market interest rates, the borrower’s monthly repayments remain consistent. This provides certainty and makes budgeting easier for homeowners. However, fixed-rate mortgages often come with higher initial interest rates compared to variable-rate mortgages. Variable rate mortgages, also known as adjustable-rate mortgages
fluctuates, the interest rate on the mortgage adjusts accordingly. Tracker mortgages typically offer lower initial interest rates than fixed-rate mortgages, but borrowers should be prepared for potential increases in monthly repayments if the base rate rises.
Discount mortgages offer borrowers a discount on the lender’s standard variable rate for a set period, typically two to five years. The discount is usually expressed as a percentage below the lender’s standard variable rate. While borrowers benefit from lower initial interest rates during the discount period, their monthly repayments can increase once the discount
It’s essential for borrowers to carefully consider their financial situation, long-term goals, and risk tolerance when selecting the most suitable mortgage type for their circumstances.
period ends and the mortgage reverts to the lender’s standard variable rate.
(ARMs), have interest rates that can fluctuate over the loan term based on changes in the lender’s standard variable rate or another benchmark rate, such as the Bank of England’s base rate. Borrowers may benefit from lower initial interest rates compared to fixed-rate mortgages, but their monthly repayments can increase or decrease depending on market conditions. This type of mortgage may suit those who are comfortable with potential fluctuations in their monthly payments.
Offset mortgages allow borrowers to link their mortgage account to their savings or current account. The balance in these accounts is offset against the outstanding mortgage balance, reducing the amount of interest charged on the mortgage. Borrowers continue to have access to their savings and can withdraw funds as needed. Offset mortgages can help borrowers reduce the overall interest they pay over the loan term and potentially shorten the mortgage term.
on the loan each month, not the capital. This leads to lower monthly payments compared to repayment options but requires a separate plan—such as savings or investments—to repay the original loan amount at the end of the term. These mortgages may appeal to investors or individuals with irregular income who anticipate having the means to repay the capital later.
Also
known as capital and interest mortgages, these require monthly payments that cover both the interest and a portion of the capital borrowed. Over time, the loan balance gradually decreases until fully repaid by the end of the term. This structure provides the reassurance of knowing the mortgage will be paid off, making it a preferred option for many homeowners.
in summary
The UK mortgage market offers a wide range of products to match various financial needs and preferences. Whether the priority is stability, flexibility, or lower monthly payments, there’s an option to suit. It’s essential for borrowers to evaluate their financial situation, longterm goals, and risk tolerance carefully. Seeking advice from a mortgage advisor or financial expert can help in making a well-informed decision.
Tracker mortgages are linked to a specific base rate, usually the Bank of England’s base rate, plus a set percentage. As the base rate
With an interest-only mortgage, borrowers pay only the interest
In the realm of real estate, adding value to your home is not just about sprucing up its appearance; it’s an investment that can yield significant returns when done strategically. Whether you’re looking to sell your property in the near future or simply aiming to enhance your living space, here are six proven strategies to boost your home’s value.
KERB APPEAL ENHANCEMENT
The first impression matters. Invest in enhancing your home’s kerb appeal by maintaining a well-manicured lawn, planting colorful flowers, and adding appealing exterior lighting.
Fresh paint for the front door and clean, well-defined pathways can make a world of difference. Potential buyers or visitors should feel drawn to your home from the moment they arrive.
The kitchen is often considered the heart of a home, and it’s a prime area for adding value. Focus on modernizing the kitchen with updated appliances, countertops, and cabinetry. Opt for timeless designs and neutral colours that appeal to a broad range of tastes. Additionally, consider adding functional elements such as a kitchen island or a pantry to increase both aesthetics and utility.
KITCHEN REMODELLING
BATHROOM UPGRADES
Similar to kitchens, bathrooms are key selling points for homes. Upgrading fixtures, such as faucets and showerheads, can instantly give a bathroom a more luxurious feel. Consider replacing worn-out tiles, installing energy-efficient toilets, and adding extra storage space. A clean, well-maintained bathroom can significantly increase your home’s value and appeal.
ENERGY-EFFICIENCY IMPROVEMENTS
In today’s environmentally conscious world, energy-efficient homes are highly sought after.
Investing in energy-saving upgrades not only reduces utility bills but also adds value to your property. Consider installing solar panels, upgrading to energy-efficient windows and doors, and enhancing insulation. These improvements not only benefit the environment but also make your home more attractive to potential buyers.
a more open floor plan. This can make your home feel larger and more inviting, ultimately increasing its value. However, be sure to consult with a professional to ensure structural integrity and compliance with building codes.
SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION
Incorporating smart home technology can make your property more desirable and valuable in today’s techsavvy market. Install smart thermostats, lighting systems, security cameras, and door locks that can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps. Not only do these technologies enhance convenience and security, but they also appeal to buyers looking for modern amenities.
in conclusion
OPEN FLOOR PLAN
Many modern homeowners prefer open, spacious layouts that facilitate seamless interaction between different areas of the house. If feasible, consider knocking down non-load-bearing walls to create
Adding value to your home involves a combination of aesthetic enhancements, functional upgrades, and strategic investments. By focusing on areas such as kerb appeal, kitchen and bathroom remodelling, energy efficiency, open floor plans, smart home technology, and additional living space, you can significantly increase your property’s value and appeal to potential buyers. Remember to prioritize improvements that align with your budget, market trends, and the preferences of your target demographic. With careful planning and execution, your home can become not only a comfortable living space but also a lucrative asset.
