10 Co Working Spaces in the UK: A Comprehensive Guide
As a freelancer, finding the perfect workspace can be a daunting task. While working from home may seem like a good idea, it can quickly become isolating and uninspiring. That’s where co-working spaces come in. Co-working spaces provide a collaborative environment that can boost your productivity, creativity and social life. In this comprehensive guide, I will take you through everything you need to know about co-working spaces in the UK, including the top 10 co-working spaces, factors to consider when choosing a co-working space, and how to make the most out of your co-working experience.
What is a Co Working Space?
A co-working space is a shared workspace where individuals from different professions and industries come together to work in a communal setting. These spaces are equipped with all the necessary amenities such as desks, chairs, and high-speed internet. They are designed to provide an environment that fosters creativity, innovation and productivity.
Co-working spaces are not just for freelancers and entrepreneurs, but also for remote workers, small businesses, and startups. They offer an affordable alternative to traditional office spaces, without the long-term commitment and overhead costs.
Benefits of Working in a Co Working Space
One of the main benefits of working in a co-working space is the opportunity to network and collaborate with like-minded individuals. Co-working spaces often host events, workshops and meetups, providing the perfect setting to meet new people and expand your professional network.
Another advantage of co-working spaces is the flexibility they offer. Most co-working spaces offer different membership plans, from hot-desking to private offices, allowing you to choose a plan that suits your needs and budget.
Co-working spaces also provide a sense of community and social interaction that can be lacking when working from home. They offer a break from the monotony of working alone, and can inspire you to be more productive and creative.
Co Working Space Trends in the UK
The co-working industry in the UK has experienced significant growth in recent years. According to a report by Instant Offices, the number of co-working spaces in the UK has increased by 10% since 2017. London remains the largest market for co-working spaces in the UK, with over 1,000 spaces available. However, other cities such as Manchester, Bristol, and Birmingham are also experiencing growth in the co-working sector.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the co-working industry in the UK. Many co-working spaces have had to adapt to new health and safety measures, such as increased cleaning and social distancing. Some co-working spaces have also introduced new features such as private work booths and outdoor spaces to accommodate the changing needs of their members.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Co Working Space
Choosing the right co-working space can have a significant impact on your productivity and overall experience. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing a co-working space:
Location: Consider the location of the co-working space and how accessible it is to public transport and other amenities such as cafes and restaurants.
Amenities: Look for a co-working space that offers all the amenities you need, such as high-speed internet, printing facilities, and meeting rooms.
Community: Consider the type of community the co-working space attracts and whether it aligns with your professional goals and interests.
Pricing: Look for a co-working space that offers flexible pricing plans that suit your budget and needs.
The Top 10 Co Working Spaces in the UK
Here are the top 10 co-working spaces in the UK, based on amenities, community, location, and pricing:
a. Co Working Space 1: WeWork
WeWork is one of the largest co-working companies in the world, with locations in major cities around the globe. They offer a range of amenities, including private offices, hot-desking, meeting rooms, and event spaces. WeWork has a strong community focus, with regular events and workshops to help members connect and collaborate.
b. Co Working Space 2: Huckletree
Huckletree is a co-working space that focuses on supporting startups and entrepreneurs. They offer a range of membership plans, from flexible hot-desking to private offices. Huckletree also provides a range of support services, such as access to mentors, investors, and industry experts.
c. Co Working Space 3: The Office Group
The Office Group offers a range of co-working spaces in London and other major UK cities. They provide a variety of amenities, including meeting rooms, private offices, and event spaces. The Office Group also places a strong emphasis on design, creating unique and inspiring workspaces.
d. Co Working Space 4: Second Home
Second Home is a co-working space that combines work and play, with a focus on creativity and innovation. They offer a range of membership plans, from hot-desking to private offices. Second Home also hosts regular events and workshops, including talks by industry leaders and cultural events.
e. Co Working Space 5: Fora
Fora is a co-working space that provides a range of amenities, including private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces. They have a strong focus on design, with unique and inspiring workspaces. Fora also offers a range of support services, such as access to mentors and industry experts.
f. Co Working Space 6: Impact Hub
Impact Hub is a co-working space that focuses on social innovation and entrepreneurship. They offer a range of membership plans, from hot-desking to private offices. Impact Hub also hosts regular events and workshops, including talks by industry leaders and networking events.
g. Co Working Space 7: Spaces
Spaces is a co-working space that provides a range of amenities, including private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces. They have a strong focus on design, with unique and inspiring workspaces. Spaces also offers a range of support services, such as access to mentors and industry experts.
h. Co Working Space 8: Work.Life
Work.Life is a co-working space that focuses on creating a community of freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small businesses. They offer a range of amenities, including private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces. Work.Life also hosts regular events and workshops, including talks by industry leaders and networking events.
i. Co Working Space 9: The Brew
The Brew is a co-working space that provides a range of amenities, including private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces. They have a strong focus on community, with regular events and workshops to help members connect and collaborate. The Brew also offers a range of support services, such as access to mentors and industry experts.
j. Co Working Space 10: The Trampery
The Trampery is a co-working space that focuses on supporting creative and tech startups. They offer a range of amenities, including private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces. The Trampery also provides a range of support services, such as access to mentors, investors, and industry experts.
Co Working Spaces Near Me
If you’re looking for a co-working space near you, there are a few resources you can use to find one:
Google Maps: Search for “co-working spaces near me” on Google Maps to find co-working spaces in your area.
Coworker: Coworker is a platform that allows you to search for co-working spaces based on location, amenities, and pricing.
Desks Near Me: Desks Near Me is a platform that allows you to search for co-working spaces based on location and amenities.
Co Working Spaces in Hampshire
If you’re based in Hampshire, here are a few co-working spaces you might want to check out:
Basepoint: Basepoint is a co-working space that provides a range of amenities, including private offices, hot-desking, and event spaces. They have locations in Winchester and Basingstoke.
The Pump House: The Pump House is a co-working space that focuses Open plan co-work spaces, coffee lounge, bar and restaurant with meeting rooms, event spaces and gardens overlooking St. Catherine’s Hill. The Pump House is located in Winchester.
Regus: Regus is a co-working space that provides a range of amenities, including private offices, meeting rooms, and event spaces. They have locations in Southampton and Basingstoke.
Comparison of Co Working Spaces in the UK
Here’s a comparison of the top co-working spaces in the UK based on location, amenities, community, and pricing:
Co Working Space | Location | Amenities | Community | Pricing |
---|---|---|---|---|
WeWork | Major cities | Private offices, hot-desking, meeting rooms, event spaces | Strong community focus | From £200/month |
Huckletree | London | Hot-desking, private offices, support services | Focus on startups and entrepreneurship | From £300/month |
The Office Group | London and other major UK cities | Private offices, meeting rooms, event spaces | Strong focus on design | From £360/month |
Second Home | London | Hot-desking, private offices, events, cultural programs | Focus on creativity and innovation | From £375/month |
Fora | London and other major UK cities | Private offices, meeting rooms, event spaces | Focus on design and support services | From £425/month |
Impact Hub | London and other major UK cities | Hot-desking, private offices, events, support services | Focus on social innovation and entrepreneurship | From £200/month |
Spaces | Major cities | Private offices, meeting rooms, event spaces | Strong focus on design and support services | From £150/month |
Work.Life | London and other major UK cities | Private offices, meeting rooms, event spaces | Focus on community building | From £450/month |
The Brew | London | Private offices, meeting rooms, event spaces | Strong focus on community | From £295/month |
The Trampery | London | Private offices, meeting rooms, event spaces | Focus on supporting creative and tech startups | From £300/month |
How to Make the Most of Your Co Working Space Experience
Here are a few tips on how to make the most out of your co-working space experience:
Attend Events: Attend events and workshops hosted by your co-working space to meet new people and expand your professional network.
Collaborate: Look for opportunities to collaborate with other members of your co-working space. Collaborating on projects can lead to new ideas and opportunities.
Take Breaks: Take regular breaks throughout the day to avoid burnout and stay productive.
Explore the Area: Take advantage of your co-working space’s location and explore the surrounding area during your breaks.
Conclusion
Co-working spaces provide a collaborative and inspiring environment for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. With so many options available in the UK, it can be challenging to choose the right one. By considering factors such as location, amenities, and community, you can find the perfect co-working space for your needs. Whether you’re looking to network, collaborate, or just escape the isolation of working from home, a co-working space can provide the perfect solution.
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