13 Tips for Finding the Best and Cheapest Office Space for Rent in London

17,July,2025Sabahat Ali

Introduction

Finding the ideal office space in London isn’t just about affordability or availability — it’s about striking the right balance. Whether you're a freelancer searching for a personal office space for rent or a growing startup seeking a professional office space for rent, London offers plenty of choices — but with that comes a maze of considerations.

If you're aiming for the cheapest office space in London that still reflects your business image, start by exploring the hidden gems in London’s office rental scene. This comprehensive guide reveals lesser-known yet high-value locations that could offer exactly what your business needs, without the central London price tag. As discussed previously, here are 13 tips on choosing the most suitable office space in London for your needs and budget.

1.  Determine Your Budget (And Don’t Exceed It)

Begin by deciding what you can spend within reason. The price per office space in London differs greatly; for example, Stratford may charge £250 per desk, while Mayfair could charge over £1000. Remember to include:

  • Lease payments
  • Lease Payment
  • Utilities
  • Internet
  • Service Charges
  • Business Rates

Do not overlook the quoted rent. Many office spaces advertised to be the cheapest have numerous costly hidden charges. Always ask for a full breakdown of costs from the landlord or provider.

2. Assess What Your Space Requirements Are

Avoid the trap of overestimating the space you require. A small and efficient layout will save you thousands every year. Consider:

  • How many employees will need desks?
  • Is a meeting room or a kitchenette required?
  • Is the office fully in-office, or hybrid?

If you are a solo entrepreneur or consultant, consider renting a personal office instead of taking larger office space.

3. As the Old Saying Goes, Location is Vital

London is quite a huge city. The location of your office sends a message about your business.

Unfortunately, given the recent price hike, I can only share insights from March 2023 and prior valuing the British pound.

I would like to start with the geographical sections of London. For Client meeting, Central London (City, Soho, Mayfair) serves as the best option due to its amenities. Stamford Hill and Clapton are great locations for booking cheap accommodation in East London (Shoreditch, Hackney) due to their creativity. As for the last, South London (Brixton, Croydon) boasts great prices for transport in London. If you're seeking the cheapest office space in London, emerging areas like Stratford, Wembley, or Barking could be your best bet.

4. Opt for Adaptability If Growing Up

It might not be a good idea for a company to sign a long-term lease. On the other hand, flexible office providers give month-to-month contracts that permit scaling up or down without incurring extra costs.

Since many coworking spaces and managed offices have simple price structures designed for small and medium-sized enterprises, look into options that can grow with your company.

5. Take into Account the Accessibility Requirements of Your Clients and Team

It should be simple for both your staff and prospective customers to get to your office.

  • Is there a train or Tube station nearby?
  • Are the bus links good?
  • Is parking available nearby or on-site?

Two important considerations for companies choosing office space in London are price and convenience. Inadequate accessibility can affect hiring, team morale, and timeliness.

6. Think About Serviced Offices vs. Traditional Offices

Rather than charging per task like traditional offices do, serviced offices provide everything under a set monthly fee, including desks, internet and cleaning services. This greatly reduces administrative burdens.

Serviced offices may come with higher costs, but that is mitigated by the lower maintenance caused by traditional offices. These come with longer leases and a lot more setup. If you are working by yourself or you are part of a one-person team, it may be more advantageous to rent a personal office space in a serviced building.

7. Check the Lease Terms Carefully

Understand what you're signing. Look out for:

  • Length of commitment
  • Deposit amount
  • Exit clauses
  • Repair obligations
  • Rent review clauses

Some providers offer incredibly cheap deals to start, but with restrictive clauses that trap you later. Always have a solicitor review the lease for peace of mind.

8. Look for All-Inclusive Deals

Want to reduce financial surprises? Choose spaces that include:

  • Business rates
  • Internet
  • Cleaning
  • Utilities
  • Reception services

These are often the most professional office spaces for rent, as they’re designed for business owners who want to focus on running their company, not managing a property.

9. Don’t Underestimate Amenities

While you might think ping-pong tables and coffee machines are gimmicks, a good set of amenities can help with productivity, team satisfaction, and client perception.

Look for:

  • Reliable Wi-Fi
  • Secure entry systems
  • On-site meeting rooms
  • Communal areas or break zones
  • Kitchenette or coffee station

Even when going for the cheapest office space in London, amenities can offer surprising value for money.

10. Think About Branding and Layout

Does the space reflect your brand? Is there room for signage? Can you personalise the interior?

Some businesses need a neutral environment, while others want creative flair. Either way, your office should reflect your brand’s values.

If customisation matters, opt for managed offices that allow branding flexibility while still offering plug-and-play simplicity.

11. Evaluate the Surrounding Environment

A great office inside a dull or noisy neighbourhood can kill team motivation and client interest from the meetings.

  • Are there cafes, restaurants, or gyms nearby?
  • Is the area safe after dark at night?
  • Is there green space for breaks?

Choosing the best office space in London means factoring in lifestyle and well-being too.

12. Visit Multiple Locations Before Deciding

Photos can be deceiving. Always visit the space in person — ideally at different times of the day.

Ask yourself:

  • Is it quiet when you need it to be?
  • Are other tenants businesses you want to be associated with?
  • How responsive is the property manager?

Shortlist minimum 2–6 locations to compare and balance advantages over and above price.

13. Ask About Growth Potential

If you expect to grow, make sure the provider will be able to meet your future needs and expansion.

Many serviced office providers enable you to begin in a private office for rent and expand to a complete suite as your team expands — without having to alter address or renegotiate leases.

It's a savvy approach to future-proof your space without upfront large investment.

Final Thoughts: How to Get the Best Office Space Without Emptying Your Bank Account

Finding a balance between quality and affordability is the key to securing the best office space in London. Whether you’re a one-person consultancy or a team of ten, London offers an array of options — from sleek professional spaces in Central London to the cheapest office spaces tucked away in vibrant outer boroughs.

If unsure, ask questions. Always think about what's in the price tag, how open the terms are, and how the space fits your business objectives. The appropriate setting can assist with improving efficiency, recruiting talent, and establishing credibility

Searching for a budget-friendly, professional office in London?

At IBC, we are expert office providers of flexible office solutions for businesses of every size. Whether you're in need of a private office rental space, the most affordable office space in London, or a corporate office space that reflects your brand, we've got you covered.

Come visit https://www.ibc.co.uk/services/office-space/ today and browse our workspaces on offer and start your search for the ideal office space in London for your business.