Best Small Cities for Serviced Offices
by Roy Fiszer-Watson
Best Small Cities for Serviced Offices is a phrase that’s gaining traction—and for good reason. In today’s fast-moving, hybrid working world, more businesses are waking up to the value of working outside London or Manchester. As someone who’s helped countless firms find their ideal workspace, I’ve seen how small cities across the UK are offering flexible, inspiring, and affordable office solutions with all the benefits—minus the big-city price tag.
Why Small Cities Are Gaining Momentum
In a post-pandemic world, the rules of work have shifted—and so have our priorities. Smaller cities now rival larger hubs thanks to reduced costs, better work-life balance, and highly connected digital infrastructure. The best small cities for serviced offices are those offering top-tier amenities, talent pools, and accessibility without the congestion or cost of major metros.
Key Criteria for Choosing the Best Small Cities for Serviced Offices
- Affordability: Lower rental rates compared to London or Birmingham.
- Transport links: Easy rail or motorway access to nearby major cities.
- Local economy: Strong presence of industries like tech, creative, finance or education.
- Talent availability: Proximity to universities or skilled workforce hubs.
- Culture & lifestyle: A city where your team actually wants to live and work.
Top Picks: Best Small Cities for Serviced Offices
1. Exeter
With its charming architecture and highly educated workforce, Exeter is a standout. It’s a hub for digital services, environmental tech, and finance. The city’s compact layout and excellent train links to London make it ideal for hybrid teams. Serviced office costs here average £200–£300 per desk per month.
2. York
Rich in history, yet forward-thinking in business, York is attracting firms across software, education, and heritage sectors. The station connects quickly to Leeds, Manchester and London, while local serviced office spaces include modern coworking hubs and converted Georgian buildings.
3. Cheltenham
Home to GCHQ and a growing cyber-tech sector, Cheltenham is no longer a sleepy spa town. Its rise in innovation is matched by sleek serviced offices ideal for defence, AI, and creative teams. It’s also an incredibly liveable city with strong broadband and university partnerships.
4. Norwich
Often overlooked, Norwich punches above its weight. It’s got two universities, a strong arts and publishing scene, and tech startups choosing it over London. Serviced offices in Norwich are stylish and affordable—averaging £180–£250/month—ideal for scaling businesses.
5. Stirling
Strategically located between Edinburgh and Glasgow, Stirling gives you access to Scottish talent without the capital prices. It’s a smart choice for companies wanting a footprint in Scotland, especially in energy, education, and heritage sectors.
6. Lancaster
With one of the UK’s top universities and a strong digital start-up culture, Lancaster is attracting attention. Its riverside business parks and coworking lounges are both peaceful and productive, making it a great place for creative and academic businesses.
7. Durham
Combining beautiful architecture with academic excellence, Durham is perfect for professional services firms or remote satellite teams. Its proximity to Newcastle adds even more potential while keeping office costs low and predictable.
8. Chichester
A favourite among professional freelancers and hybrid creatives, Chichester blends coast, countryside, and commerce. It’s an upmarket alternative to Brighton or Portsmouth, with new serviced spaces emerging to match rising demand.
Comparative Costs of Small City Offices (2025 Averages)
| City | Average Monthly Desk Cost |
|---|---|
| Exeter | £220 |
| York | £250 |
| Cheltenham | £270 |
| Norwich | £230 |
| Stirling | £210 |
| Lancaster | £200 |
| Durham | £215 |
| Chichester | £260 |
Why This Matters More Than Ever
The rise of distributed work means location no longer has to be a barrier to growth. Many companies I work with are now running satellite teams from places like York or Cheltenham—saving money, reducing commute stress, and increasing staff satisfaction. The best small cities for serviced offices are proof that bigger isn’t always better.
Need Help Choosing?
At Serviced Office Portal, we specialise in matching businesses with the right workspace. Whether you’re relocating your HQ or simply opening a regional hub, we’re here to help you find the best flexible space in any of these fantastic small cities.
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