Aldgate, Central London

About Aldgate

Although it is disputed what originally gave Aldgate its name, it is widely believed that it gets its title from a gate which stood in this area and spanned the road to Colchester during the Roman period. This gate was rebuilt several times throughout history, before finally being taken down in 1761. Aldgate is one of 25 wards in London, which are self-governed units within the City as a whole, a throwback to medieval governing systems. Aldgate is home to the Gherkin, otherwise known as 30 St Mary Axe, one of London’s most famous landmarks and a centre of business, and there is also an excellent transport system in the area, including a major traffic roundabout to the East of where the gate used to stand.

Setting up your business here

Aldgate is largely made up of insurance companies, underwriters and brokers, with some of the City’s most prominent examples basing their headquarters here. Major buildings in the area include the London Metal Exchange, which is the world centre for industrial metals trading, and the Willis Building, which is named after the major insurance company which is the primary tenant. The area is ideal for business of all kinds, with excellent transport links making it easily accessible. The Aldgate and Tower Area Strategy which started up in 2011 is looking to constantly improve transport and environmental aspects of the area.

A typical office in Aldgate

Here is an example of a typical office in this area:

We offer the following office types & services:

• 
  Serviced Offices
• 
  Corporate Services
• 
  Virtual Offices
• 
  Meeting Rooms
• 
  Project Space
• 
  Luxury Offices

Things to do in Aldgate

Whilst Aldgate is mainly a business location, there are plenty of attractions and activities close by. Brick Lane is a cultural centre in London, famous for its wealth of Indian restaurants but also home to the culturally diverse Brick Lane Market. The Tower of London is also close by, and offers some of the best insights to London’s history, popular with locals and tourists alike. Raven Row is a contemporary arts centre which is home to various galleries and exhibitions throughout the year, creating opportunities for more cultural entertainment. There are plenty of spots for post-work drinks, from the relaxed and casual New Moon, to the more upmarket Apples and Pears, which is known as East London’s hidden cocktail bar and enjoys a trendy atmosphere and innovative drinks menu. For food, Kasturi is one of the more business-lunch friendly Anglo-Indian restaurants in the area, and for a casual evening out Wagamama Tower Hill offers Japanese food in a friendly, modern environment.

Local transportation

• Tube lines: Circle, District, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan
• Mainline stations: Aldgate, Aldgate East, Fenchurch Street
• Nearest motorways: M4
• Nearest airports: London City, Heathrow
• Other: Buses and taxis