As a digital marketing and SEO agency near London, we often get asked by our small business clients for recommendations on where to stay and where to hire work spaces or meetings rooms in London. So here are some of our suggestions…
London is a city that is known for its dynamic and diverse business environment. Launching or managing a business within London comes with plenty of opportunities but also requires some strategic planning. Harnessing the resources for small businesses within London is no mean feat. There are, obviously, plenty of options out there, so how do you find what suits your business best? Fret not, as we bring you our simple guide to small business resources within the London area. Here, you will find information on transport, business resources, restaurants, meeting rooms and places to stay in this vibrant capital city.
Travelling and transport
With obvious links via the tube, and overground, travelling throughout London is easy. It is worth considering taking the overground or underground option over taxis, particularly in rush hour, as often, this can be quicker than sitting in traffic. In some cases, you might find it quicker to walk than to drive! Knowing the prime stations is key to being able to get where you want to be. These include:
London Underground Central Line – This connects East to West London and is useful for accessing major business districts. It connects the business hubs of the City of London and the West End, Liverpool Street, Bank and Saint Paul’s. These are pivotal stations for small businesses, whether you are visiting customers or accessing resources around these areas.
London Overground – Shoreditch High Street Station – Accessing Shoreditch is a must for creative businesses. This is a trendy area full of creatives, and the station connects East London’s artistic hubs to the rest of the city.
Business destinations and hubs
If you are seeking office space or a collaborative environment in which to work, WeWork in Primrose Street, Shoreditch, EC2A 2EX is an ideal spot. It has a vibrant atmosphere, and it’s close to tech and creative industry giants. This coworking space gives you a chance to network while you work.
Alternatively, if you wish to locate yourself in the financial district, Level39, based at 1 Canada Square, Canary Wharf, E14 5AB is a fintech-focused business accelerator. It plays host to a supportive community, helping small businesses with networking, mentoring, and a wide range of other services.
Resources for client meetings
There are many places to meet up in London, but if you’re giving a presentation, or have a board meeting that you’d like to set up, it may be best to site yourself near one of the main stations. That way, your delegates will be able to travel swiftly in and out of the city if they are not based there. Options include a meeting room at Frequency Kings Cross, WC1X 9NH. This is based 600 metres from Kings Cross Station and has Wi-Fi, flip charts and complimentary coffee and tea. There are also a range of breakfast and lunch options that you can order for your meetings. Prices are relatively low, and you can hire for just a few hours a day.
Alternatively, you could opt for Union at Paddington, WT2 1AY. This is only 350 metres from Edgware Road station on the Bakerloo line, and comes with a projector, conference call facilities, Wi-Fi and unlimited tea, coffee and water. There are also catering options available here.
Business hotels in London
There is a plethora of options open to you if you want to stay in London for a night or more. Whether you are inviting clients to meet with you in the city and need to book accommodation, or if you are staying for a conference in the area, there will be a hotel that meets your needs and budget.
Depending on the area of London, you want to stay, options include:
- Park Plaza Westminster Bridge SE1 7UT – this is a sleek hotel, with a spa and upscale dining opportunities. It has a great rating on Tripadvisor and is less expensive than you would expect for a central London hotel. Based just six minutes from Waterloo Station, a mile from Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, this hotel boasts a prime spot for getting around the most notable parts of London.
- Novotel, Canary Wharf E14 9TP – the Novotel is based right near Canary Wharf. It’s a nine-minute walk from the nearest tube station, 3 miles from the Tower of London and the O2 Arena. It has a pool, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi, and room service is cost-effective if you prefer to work from your hotel room.
Where to take clients for dinner
If you have clients you’re looking to dine with in London, depending on your budget, you should find a great place. These are two of our favourites:
- Dishoom in Covent Garden, WC2H 9FB, provides sophisticated authentic Indian cuisine, as well as a unique atmosphere that will truly impress your clients.
- Dabbous in Fitzrovia, W1T 2SF, a Michelin-star restaurant with an industrial chic design. If you are looking to align with a restaurant which is modern and upscale, just like your business, this is the place to take your clients.
Advertising opportunities in London for SMEs
If you are looking to make a splash with your business advertising, you could do no better than hiring a Piccadilly Circus digital billboard, W1J 9HS. Advertising provides exposure to millions of people here. If you are looking to enhance your brand visibility, you might be surprised at how cost-effective a small billboard would be.
If your budget is more modest, an alternative for advertising within the Greater London area may lie on the buses. For example, there are buses with digital screens on routes 23 and 8, which could expose your business to a diverse range of people. These buses go through both residential and business districts, and provide you with the opportunity to get in front of those you want to market to.
Wherever in London you hold your business events or have your business address, you are sure to be able to benefit from some of the resources above to make your mark on your target audience.
