Area Overview for Clerkenwell Ward

Looking east across Clerkenwell Green, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
East end of Clerkenwell Green, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
Corner of Sekforde Street and Clerkenwell Green, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
Farringdon Lane, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
Looking east along Percival Street, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
Looking north along Sekforde Street, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
The north end of Sekforde Street, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
Junction of Sekforde Street and Woodbridge Street, EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
Seckforde Street and Woodbridge Street, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
Looking north along Woodbridge Street, London EC1 in Clerkenwell Ward
Lloyd Square and the BT Tower in Clerkenwell Ward
Amwell Street, Islington in Clerkenwell Ward
100 photos from this area

Area Information

Living in Clerkenwell Ward means residing in the south-western part of the London Borough of Islington, a distinct district within central London. This ward covers 93.4 hectares, a relatively compact space that houses a population of 1362 people. The area's identity is rooted in its ancient history, having existed as a parish since the medieval period. Its name derives from the Clerks' Well, first referenced in 1100 near Farringdon Lane, which served the medieval parish clerks who performed mystery plays. Development around the area centred on significant religious sites, including the Nunnery of St Mary and the Priory of St John of Jerusalem, both founded in the 12th century. Today, the ward retains these historic landmarks, most notably St John's Gate, erected in 1504 as the former gateway to the Priory. You will find the historic Clerkenwell Green, which contains the former Middlesex Sessions House built in 1782. Furthermore, the location includes New River Head on Rosebery Avenue, constructed between 1604 and 1613 to supply London's fresh water. The community remains small and tightly defined, as the low population figure relative to the borough suggests a quiet, residential character.

Area Type
District Borough Unitary Ward
Area Size
93.4 hectares
Population
1362
Population Density
1459 people/km²

Demographics

The community profile within Clerkenwell Ward is heavily weighted towards older residents. The median age stands at 70 years, indicating a population that is significantly older than the London average. Age ranges showing the most common demographics reflect this shift towards a mature cohort. Home ownership levels are relatively low, with only 26 percent of households owning their property outright. This suggests that the majority of residents live in rented accommodation rather than owned homes. While specific data on household composition and predominant ethnic groups is not explicitly detailed in the available records, the high mean age indicates a need for services suitable for senior citizens. The population density is high at 1459 people per square kilometre, meaning homes in Clerkenwell Ward are situated in close proximity to one another. This density supports a walkable environment where daily necessities are likely within short distance. You should expect a setting that prioritises the needs of a less mobile demographic, with a housing stock and local infrastructure designed to accommodate those living in their later years.

Household Size

total
most common

Accommodation Type

total
most common

Tenure

26
majority

Ethnic Group

total
most common

Religion

total
most common

Household Composition

total
most common

Age

70
median
Age: Total
most common

Household Deprivation

N/A
with no deprivation

NS-SEC

43
in Lower managerial occupations

Explore more demographic insights in this area

Go to Demographics tab

Planning

Planning Constraints

  • Flood Risk
    Premium
  • Ramsar Wetland Sites
    Premium
  • Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
    Premium
  • Protected Nature Reserve
    Premium
  • Protected Woodland
    Premium
  • Crime Risk
    Premium

Explore more planning insights in this area

Open Planning map

Frequently Asked Questions

Who typically lives in Clerkenwell Ward and what is the community like?
The community in Clerkenwell Ward is dominated by older residents, with a median age of 70 years. The area supports a population of 1362 people within 93.4 hectares, creating a dense neighbourhood of 1459 people per square kilometre. Only 26 percent of households are owner-occupied, meaning the majority live in rental accommodation. This demographic skew suggests a quiet area focused on the needs of seniors rather than a family-oriented community.

We use cookies to provide you with the best experience. By continuing, you agree to our Cookie Policy .