The thing we love about London is that it is such a vibrant place, full of inspirational organisations, cultural institutions and amazing dining establishments. Is there anywhere more multi-cultured in the world?
As an industry, us event professionals are rather lucky. We have the pick of some of the most spectacular heritage venues, museums and art galleries, as well as exquisite ballrooms in some of the most highly regarded hotels across the globe. There really is a venue to suit any type of event, from traditional to highly contemporary, funky to fancy and everything in between.
We have had the pleasure in working in many of these fantastic destinations, which have helped us shape a vast portfolio of events. We love to support culture and to ensure that we play our part in ensuring these world buildings are supported, financially, and to offer cultural alternatives for our client’s to engage with throughout their event experience. Here are our top pick of London venues:
The Victoria & Albert Museum, South Kensington is one of those venues where it is easy to lose yourself amongst a world-class collection of art and design, whilst feeling completely relaxed and inspired. As an events space it is equally as impressive, encompassing a range of entertaining solutions around the exhibitions, within venues that are opulent and impressive in terms of size and scale. This really is a sophisticated venue option for any type of event.
As an approved supplier to The Savoy, which can be found on the Strand WC2R, it is a joy to be able to visit this art deco haven, situated next to The Savoy Theatre in London’s bustling West-End. It is a true privilege to be able to support this stunning hotel and very exciting to be continuously impressed by its rich history, high-profile clientele throughout the times, and impeccable service.
Part of the One Events portfolio of venues, One Marylebone has fast become one of the most popular venues for events. We love it for its interiors, which are exquisite and for its flexibility as space that can accommodate a range of different styles. It is these qualities that clearly influence clients to use the venue time and time again.
The cultural destination of London is a venue that is both beautiful to look at and exciting to visit – their exhibition programme is incredible, not to mention the full range of live experiences from gigs to the much treasured Film 4 Summer Screen. There really is so much space at Somerset House to use for private events, from Palladian styles to the Edmond J. Safra Fountain Courtyard for impressive marquees. The Courtauld Gallery is on site too, offering majestic galleries full of impressionist art.
One of the capital’s oldest and most respected venues, Westminster Abbey plays such an important role in the UK’s history, both past and present. Whilst you are unable to host events inside the Abbey itself, the surrounded cloisters, gardens and internal rooms are wonderful choices for both small dinners and beautiful summer parties. It is possible to incorporate tours of the Abbey, teaching about the history of the church and its associations, including Elizabeth I, Charles Dickens and Sir Isaac Newton.
We have been so excited about the launch of the new buildings at Tate Modern and it is now possible to visit and book events. Tate is an incredibly important organisations, housing the biggest collection of Modern art, supported by Tate Britain as an important establishment for British art. The Switch House is in a similar style to the older building, with dedicated event spaces for both daytime and evening hire. This really is the hot ticket events venue at the moment.
The former location for London’s famous fish market, Old Billingsgate plays an important role in the London events scene, not only for its size of capacities, but because of its unique location and rich history of events. We adore this venue as it really gives us the opportunity to showcase our true technical abilities and to create show stopping set design on a large scale. Every opportunity at Old Billingsgate is incredible exciting to see come to life.
Leadenhall Building – Sky Garden
For those partial to views over London’s skyline you won’t want to miss the Sky Garden at the top of the Leadenhall Building in the City of London. This open space is a fantastic canvass for contemporary style events – it is very sophisticated and classy. The views are simply breathtaking – this is a real hit.
On the site of the former Palace of Westminster lies Banqueting House – one of our most cherished and highly regarded venues. This venue is perfect for both drinks parties and dinners and has the most spectacular interiors imaginable. Rubens painted the ceilings within the venue – does it get much better?
The Roundhouse, situated in Camden, is a theatrical venue that inspires us for both its potential as an events space, but also for its incredibly programme of events. The main space is ideal for large-scale events and would work very well for those special occasions where aerial entertainment can be used and for central stages for performances in the round.
Image Credits: Somerset House – James Bryant | V&A – Edward Hill Photography | The Savoy – John Nassari | One Marylebone | Somerset House – Jan van der Crabben | Westminster Abbey | Tate Modern – Tate Photography | Old Billingsgate | Leadenhall Building, Sky Garden | Banqueting House – Events Brochure | Roundhouse
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