New data shows that office attendance across the UK has reached its highest level since the pandemic, signalling a stabilisation of hybrid working patterns.
According to data from Remit Consulting’s latest ReTurn report, average occupancy has now exceeded 40% nationally, with peaks of around 44% in early 2026; the highest levels recorded since March 2020 – which led to the first nationwide lockdown.
While attendance dipped slightly to 42.2% during the February half-term week, the broader trend suggests office usage is becoming more predictable after several years of fluctuation following the pandemic.
Importantly, the recovery is not limited to London. Several regional cities tracked by the consultancy are also reporting steadier patterns of occupancy:
- Bristol 69.2%
- Leeds 64.6%
- Cardiff 63.8%
- Edinburgh 53.7%
- Manchester 50.7%
- Birmingham 42.3%
- Newcastle upon Tyne 39.3%
- Glasgow 31.6%
- London 41.5%
Lorna Landells, Director at Remit Consulting, said the consistency suggests that the post-pandemic office pattern may finally be settling down: “Occupancy consistently above 40% is an important signal and suggests that office attendance is becoming more predictable, rather than continuing to fluctuate week by week. The regional picture is especially encouraging, with cities that previously lagged now showing firmer patterns of attendance.”
She said the results of the study showed a shift in focus for occupiers, investors and developers. “The question is no longer whether people will return to the office but what kind of office experience genuinely supports the way people now work. As expectations stabilise, the quality, functionality and clarity of workplace design are set to play an increasingly decisive role in driving attendance,” Landells added.
For employers, this shift is shaping how they think about workspace — prioritising well-located offices, flexible layouts, and environments that support collaboration and productivity. While many businesses are committing to large office spaces once again, most are now planning office space around mid-week peak occupancy rather than full-time occupancy.
At Orbit Developments, we’re continuing to see strong demand for high-quality regional office space that supports these evolving needs of modern businesses.
