Tranquil Clerkenwell, so close to the bustling City, has a distinct character and intriguing history. Once centred around great religious houses, the area has been the scene of fierce rebellion, innovative architecture, and major commerce.

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Founders’ Hall is the home of the Worshipful Company of Founders (one of the City’s ancient livery companies). Built in the 1980s with a striking and eclectic design, the Hall preserves historic traits whilst embracing modern ideas. Drop in during Open House to explore its treasures, meet members, and enjoy activities for all ages!

Green Lloyd Architects, 1987

Tours around Golden Lane Estate, access to the Community Centre and access to a number of flats

Chamberlin Powell & Bon, 1957

The Hall stands on land which was bought in 1922: construction work, which was undertaken by Holland, Hannen & Cubitts, started that year and the Hall was opened on 17 June 1925. Decorated in the Arts & Crafts style, and resplendent with art and treasures, visitors will gain access to areas not normally open to the public and will be guided by real Company members.

Sydney Tatchell, 1925

A guided architecture walk exploring London’s post-war transformation, from the Brutalist vision of the Barbican to the High-tech Lloyd's Building and contemporary towers of the City. Through key landmarks, the tour reveals how social ideals, technological innovation, and economic change have shaped the modern skyline.

St John's Gate and the Priory Church are the remaining buildings from the medieval priory of the Knights Hospitaller and are both Grade I listed. St John’s Gate dates from 1504 and features stunning Victorian and Edwardian interiors. The Priory Church was reconstructed by Seely & Paget after the Second World War, but its 11th-century crypt survives.

Richard Norman Shaw, 1874

The Grade I listed North Wing at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in the City of London houses two of England’s most important interiors, the Great Hall, and the Hogarth Stair with its large paintings by William Hogarth. The hospital was designed by architect James Gibbs and construction of the North Wing was completed in 1732.

James Gibbs, 1732

Opened by the Queen in 2002 as one of the first new livery halls in the Square Mile for nearly 40 years, this is a brick building with traditional lime mortar and handsome lead roof, standing around a peaceful courtyard.

Hopkins Architects, 2002

Hidden behind two Listed Building facades opposite Smithfield Market, and spread across eight floors below and above ground, E.ON's Citigen energy centre produces electricity, heat and cooling to buildings across the Square Mile.

A walk along and around a stretch of London's most famous hidden river. The River Fleet is underground these days, but it's left its mark on the landscape. Discover the layers of history in this less explored corner of central London.

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A unique modern courtyard house making brilliant use of an off-street site on Clerkenwell Green. A retractable glass roof gives wonderful natural light all year round and opens the house to the sky in dry weather.

Paxton Locher Architects, 1995