City centre offices poised to outperform in 2026 as Big 6 markets rally in Q4
Savills points to robust final quarter for office market in key UK cities
11 February 2026
Office take-up across the UK’s Big 6 regional markets reached 1.1 million sq ft in Q4 2025, in line with the five-year average, according to the latest figures from Savills. The strong end to the year highlights the resilience of city centre office demand and sets the stage for a more confident 2026.
Savills’ National Office Sentiment Survey found that 73% of respondents expect demand for prime, centrally located offices to increase this year, with professional services and tech occupiers anticipated to be among the most active sectors.
While full-year take-up across Birmingham, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds and Manchester was down 13% on 2024, Savills noted that the robust final quarter likely reflects the release of pent-up demand as delayed decisions reached completion.
Larger deals remained a key feature of the market, with Manchester recording 11 lettings over 20,000 sq ft, Birmingham 10, Bristol 6 and Leeds 5. Bristol led the performance tables overall, with 2025 take-up reaching 604,119 sq ft—up 37% on 2024, and well above both the five- and ten-year averages. The standout transaction was Hargreaves Lansdown’s 90,362 sq ft deal at the Welcome Building.
Glasgow also saw momentum build, with 2025 take-up of 433,781 sq ft—on par with the previous year and 6% above the five-year average. The city also saw a 9% rise in the number of deals, while Bristol posted a 22% increase.
Savills expects limited new supply to place upward pressure on rents for best-in-class space and create opportunities to reposition existing buildings. The firm also forecasts growing demand for fitted space and more flexible lease terms in response to evolving occupier needs.
James Evans, national head of office agency at Savills, said: “A strong Q4 across the regions highlights improving confidence and results in a positive start for 2026. Occupiers remain cautious, but are clearly prioritising quality, flexibility and well-located space as they make long-term decisions.”
