So you’re looking to work for a top UK law firm? And you’d like – apart from good money – some swanky offices, too.

Law blog LegalCheek took a look at some of the fancy digs offered up by the major City law firms, coming up with the top 5 in their ‘Most Impressive Law Firm Offices’ list. The question posed to 2000
trainees and junior lawyers at 60 of the country’s leading law firms was: How functional, comfortable and impressive is your workplace? –

Allen & Overy

– Set amidst the Spitalfields Market,the blog reported that “trainees can bask in the aromatic scent that wafts from traditional restaurants at their doorstop, or peruse the various shops and boutique stalls on their way.”

There are also roof terraces and various entrances from which to enter the Market or any of the other restaurants nearby, if they don’t want to relax in the firm’s bar or – apparently – lavender garden.

Burges Salmond

– although with a London office, the firm is based in Bristol, which is cool enough and far better for parking. Set on the river and a two hour train ride to London, the offices are attractive and with a natural atrium to lighten the mood.

Clifford Chance

– heavyweight Big Law member Clifford Chance is ensconced at Canary Wharf and is notable because of its large swimming pool, health centre, gym . . the firm is a veritable health spa. Apart from the working hours.

Gowling WLG

– Close to London’s City Hall and with offices also in Birmingham, the trainees’ response to the questionnaire was highly complimentary of the state of the offices, even if they’re not located in City central.

Kirkland & Ellis

– The big league US-based firm drew high praise for the fact that everyone has their own office, highly unusual among most firms that are given over to open space planning these days. Located in the famous Gherkin, the K&E offices occupy six of the 41 floors in the iconic building and workers have access to Searcy’s, the rooftop bar. (pictured left).

“I defy you to find anywhere better to be sat at midnight working on a Tuesday,” challenges one trainee. With a spectacular view of the City from which you can “see for miles”.

Mishcon de Reya

– the tony firm that represents aristocrats and corporates alike is in Holborn with some of the swankiest offices on offer. As LegalCheek noted, the HQ is feted as “completely incredible” by Legal Cheek survey respondents.