Working from home offers comfort but can often lead to isolation and a lack of motivation. To break the cycle and discover if a new environment could boost productivity, I decided to spend a full workday at beyond The Bower, a co-working space located just moments from Old Street station in London.
First Impressions and Seamless Setup
My day began with a swift and secure entry, scanning a QR code at the entrance with no need to queue at a reception desk. Inside, the space was immediately impressive: flooded with natural light, featuring bold interior design, and offering panoramic views of the surrounding Shoreditch area.
A variety of seating options catered to different needs, from hot desks and dedicated workstations to comfortable lounge areas and bookable private meeting rooms. Despite a healthy number of people present, the atmosphere managed to be both lively and quietly focused, providing ample room to concentrate or collaborate without feeling crowded.
Perks That Foster Community and Focus
One of the standout features was the on-site barista, serving quality coffee, including lattes and matcha, until around 12:30pm. Tea and coffee remained available all day, encouraging proper breaks away from the screen.
The community aspect is actively nurtured. On Tuesday mornings, members enjoy a complimentary breakfast spread of granola, yoghurts, and croissants. This weekly event serves a dual purpose: fuelling the morning and offering a genuine chance to socialise and network with fellow remote workers.
For the core work, the facilities are comprehensive. Ultra-fast Wi-Fi ensures seamless connectivity, while phone booths and meeting rooms can be booked for private calls. Practical amenities like printing areas, lockers, and ergonomic furniture mean you only need to bring your laptop. The design cleverly promotes both creativity and concentration, with breakout zones for a mental reset. There’s even an office puppy for a dose of distraction and comfort.
The Unique Social Vibe and Cost Breakdown
The workday here doesn’t rigidly end at 5pm. From around 3pm, members can enjoy an unusual perk: self-serve beer on tap. It’s a playful touch that encapsulates the space's vibe—professional and productive, yet socially engaging.
Access comes at a price. Day passes start at £50 for a hot desk or £65 for a desk in a whole office. Private meeting rooms cost £22 per hour.
For regular users, monthly memberships are available: £250 for co-working space access, £350 for a dedicated desk, and £620 per desk for a whole private office. These memberships include global access to other co-working spaces via the beyond app, exclusive perks, and networking events.
The Final Verdict: Is It Worth It?
With its prime location near Old Street and the vibrant amenities of Shoreditch on the doorstep, beyond The Bower is more than just a desk. It is a flexible, community-focused hub that provides all the benefits of a modern office alongside a valuable social energy.
For remote workers seeking an occasional change of scenery or a dedicated professional environment, a day pass represents a worthwhile investment. However, the cost of a full monthly membership requires careful consideration of how often you would truly utilise the space and its community benefits to justify the recurring expense.
