I have lived and worked in London for 2 decades and I must say, I like it loads. I know we suffer from congestion and houses cost a fortune, but London is worth the trouble because it is a genuine world class City. It is a great place to do business, has full exposure to the arts and also has brilliant parks.
Notwithstanding this, we have recently been asked to advise an office property fund, whose office buildings are situated in the 4 corners of the UK. I have therefore spent much of the last 3 weeks travelling the country. It has been hectic, but fun.
I am not a great traveller. Although not an observant Jew, I was brought up never to stray too far away from the Shtetel (i.e.North London) and until recently thought a passport was required to travel south of the River…..
Some of my observations on my UK property visits (not in order of priority) are as follows:
- If you go up to Nottingham or the East Midlands you pass through St Pancras International – what an outstanding building…
- Trains seem to depart and arrive almost to the minute from Kings Cross, Euston and Paddington.
- You can’t have a proper conversation on a train. Each time a station is passed, the chief steward delivers an insane message for your safety / comfort, played louder than a Black Sabbath Gig.
- Sandwiches are inexpensive. You can purchase a very nice healthy sandwich in Colwyn Bay, that unlike my local cafe, just off Great Portland St W1, does not require taking out a second mortgage.
Notwithstanding this, I am always pleased to return to London. To an outsider it can probably seem huge and intimidating, but to me it is home.
About Ian Kitchener
Ian graduated from Keele university with a degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics and went on to obtain a Post Graduate diploma in Property Valuation and Law from (London) City University. He has advised Central London office occupiers for over 20 years. He loves fighting their corner and making sure they get what they need - a great office on the best commercial terms available. Ian feels that www.FindaLondonOffice.co.uk have identified a real gap in the market - to find the perfect office and then provide expert advice on the commercial negotiations against often very canny landlords. The speed and skill with which the FindaLondonOffice team do this can often make a significant contribution to their clients profitability. Ian lives in North London with his wife and 3 young children. Read more about Ian Kitchener.
