Big 6 UK office markets show strong activity in H1 2025

Savills reports that the Big 6 UK office markets experienced strong activity in the first half of 2025, with a total take-up of 160,7222 m2. 

Glasgow

Glasgow's office space uptake surged 32% compared to the same period last year and was 25% above its five-year average, marking the highest number of deals and the strongest H1 take-up since 2019. 
Edinburgh also experienced significant growth, with take-up 21% higher than H1 2024 and 14% above its five-year average, demonstrating strong demand in the Scottish capital. The professional services sector was a key driver in both cities, accounting for approximately one-third of all office space leased.
In Manchester, office space take-up exceeded both the five-year (by 32%) and ten-year (by 10%) averages, and was 14% higher than in H1 2024, showcasing the city's continued appeal for businesses seeking premium office space. A highlight was Autotrader's 12,077 m2 lease at 3 Circle Square, the largest deal recorded this year. The Technology, Media, and Telecom (TMT) sector was a significant driver in Manchester, accounting for 41% of total office space leased.
The TMT sector was the most active overall, accounting for 20% of total take-up. 
Prime office rents in the Big 6 have grown by an average of 5% annually over the last three years, with Bristol setting a new record rent of £49.00 (€56.39) per sq ft in Q2. 
Although investment volumes were 4% down compared to H1 2024, over £600 mln (€690 mln) was placed under offer in Q2, suggesting renewed investor confidence. 
Anticipated interest rate cuts in the latter half of the year are expected to further boost investment activity.
James Evans, head of national office agency, Savills, says: "The regional office market's performance, particularly against the five-year average, highlights its resilience and adaptability. Cities like Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Manchester are leading the way with significant increases in take-up and deal numbers. This data underscores the ongoing demand for high-quality office space across the UK regions. However, it should be noted that there are continued delays around transactions and nervousness at the smaller end of the market, which represents some risk to the regional markets in the short term.  Investment sentiment in the regional office market is showing clear signs of recovery. This renewed optimism is a testament to the strong fundamentals and improving occupational performance across the regional markets."