Where is Legal going next? London Law Firm Office Leasing Report 2026
Fewer law firms moved offices in the first half of 2026, but they signed some of the largest lettings in central London.
Download PDFLaw firm office leasing in London: H1 2026
Fewer law firms moved office in the first half of the year, but they accounted for some of the largest central London lettings.
The number of new signings fell 23% compared with the first half of 2025, but the drop was mainly among smaller requirements. The standout deal was Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer’s letting of 267,000 sq ft at the 1 Appold Street development, the largest deal in the central London office market. This activity pushed space leased 12% above the first half of 2025.
Leasing activity at a glance
461,000 sq ft leased
24 deals signed
£73.26 per sq ft average achieved rent
Grade A made up 25% of deals but 66% of the space leased
Where have legal firms been moving to?
The legal sector continues to be wedded to the City, which attracted 90% of the space leased in the first half of 2026. Of these City deals, 69% were in the City Core, as firms looked to locate near clients. Leasing across Midtown and the West End remains sporadic.
What do legal occupiers want?
Law firms are prioritising collaborative, hybrid-friendly offices with strong amenities, wellness spaces and impressive client receptions, balanced with acoustically secure meeting rooms for confidential work.
The outlook for the legal sector
Competition for Grade A space will ramp up as firms use their offices to compete for talent. Leasehold will remain the best option for most law firms, though managed space could suit those wanting added service.
Read the full report for every deal, submarket and rent figure.