Maybe you're planning a summer away day for your team, or perhaps you have an upcoming corporate event you really need to pull out all the stops for. Whatever you're planning, there's no better way to make it memorable than by setting your event in one of London's most unusual venues.
From iconic boats to cavernous underground spaces, here are 9 incredible venues around London that we bet you didn't know you could hire. Now you do, there's no excuse for not making your event shine!
Cutty Sark
Clocking in at over 150 years old, The Cutty Sark has permanently retired from the seven seas, but its adventures haven't come to an end. This beautiful ship has since been preserved as a museum and is open to the public - and, even better, it's entirely hireable for private events!
The Cutty Sark has a variety of different spaces which are ideal for any type of event, from weddings to corporate dinners to awards galas. The intimate Master's Saloon is furnished with traditional wood accents, and is ideal for private dining, while the Dry Berth's position beneath the floating boat makes it an unbeatable setting for a gala dinner. Meanwhile, the Weather Deck offers an outside space with a spectacular Thames-side view, and the deck of a 19th-century ship certainly makes for an unforgettable summer party or drinks reception!
Location: Greenwich
Capacity: 12 - 450 attendees
Cutty Sark
The London Transport Museum
If you're looking to pull out the stops when it comes to impressing your guests, why not bring traffic to a standstill with an incredible evening at the London Transport Museum? With huge, arched ceilings and a whole host of fascinating exhibits to take in throughout the event, this space brings London's rich history to life in a context that'll get all your guests excited.
Whether it's a conference, gala dinner, party, or even a product launch, you'll be in safe hands with the screens and AV on offer - though we can't say the same for the immersive Elizabeth Line driving experience after your guests have had a drink or two - stand clear of the doors please!
Location: Covent Garden
Capacity: 150-500 attendees
London Transport Museum: The Galleries
London Stadium
Custom built for the 2012 London Olympics, the London Stadium is an iconic location that should be on the bucket list of any sports fan. At the stadium, you have a variety of rooms to choose from, ranging from cocktail lounges to private dining rooms, to pop-up spaces. If you're planning a team-building event to impress, hiring the Community Track will let your guests walk (or run) in the footsteps of Usain Bolt and Mo Farah!
The stadium's location makes it as convenient as it is striking, with multiple bus and train options making it easy for your attendees to travel to your event no matter where they’re coming from. If an iconic landmark with excellent transport links sounds like your ideal venue, the London Stadium should be at the top of your podium!
Location: Stratford
Capacity: 16 - 1000 attendees
Left: The Deck; Right: The BM6
Horizon 22
Horizon 22 offers an unparalleled event experience as London's highest event space, located 254 meters above ground! Available for exclusive hire, it accommodates up to 500 guests standing, making it perfect for grand occasions that demand a 'top of the world' atmosphere. This venue is particularly suited for early morning or late evening events, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, ideal for creating memorable events.
Location: Bank
Capacity: 500 Standing
Horizon 22
Gravity MAX Wandsworth
Gravity MAX Wandsworth offers an exhilarating venue option for those looking to add a twist of adventure to their event. This venue features a variety of activity-based entertainment options including multi-level electric go-karting, augmented reality bowling, and urban street golf. Accommodating up to 1000 guests, it is perfect for large corporate events or casual gatherings that aim for a high-energy, interactive experience. The venue’s modern facilities and diverse activities make it a standout choice.
Location: Wandsworth
Capacity: 1000 people
Gravity MAX Wandsworth
Swingers West End
Swingers West End is a novel choice for those seeking a unique venue, combining the laid-back elegance of a 1920s seaside golf club with the bustling atmosphere of central London. This location offers crazy golf, cocktail bars, and gourmet street food, making it perfect for up to 800 guests. Its diverse spaces include the Grand Hotel Bar, the Palm Lounge, and the Sun Room, each designed to provide a distinct and engaging experience for corporate parties, team-building events, or casual get-togethers.
Location: Oxford Circus
Capacity: 800 people
Swingers West End
Swan at the Globe
Swan at the Globe, located by the iconic Shakespeare’s Globe theatre, offers The Balcony Room, a venue with breathtaking views over the River Thames and St. Paul's Cathedral. This elegant space is suited for various events, from business meetings to weddings. Featuring a private balcony, bespoke chandelier, and panelled walls, it provides a sophisticated environment for large events.
Location: London Bridge
Capacity: 425 people
Swan at The Globe
Abbey Road Studios
Abbey Road Studios, the most iconic recording studio globally, also serves as a unique venue for various events! Studio One, originally built to record orchestras and big bands, has hosted recordings for some super famous movies like Star Wars and Harry Potter! Available for private hire, it can accommodate up to 355 guests for receptions and features a versatile space suitable for dinners, award ceremonies, and even a bespoke Record a Song experience.
Location: St. John's Wood
Capacity: 355 Reception
Abbey Road Studios: Studio One
Rennie Vaults
Rennie Vaults, nestled under London Bridge, is a truly unique choice for a variety of events. This venue features an expansive underground space capable of accommodating up to 350 guests standing. It's ideal for everything from wedding receptions to corporate gatherings, offering customisable layouts, full AV support, and a variety of food and drink packages, providing a unique backdrop with its vaulted ceilings and atmospheric lighting.
Location: London Bridge
Capacity: 350 people
Left: The Bermondsey Bierkeller; Right: Slammers Bar
Spoiled for choice? Whether you're looking for a memorable space for your first event or hoping to spice up an annual one, we're positive that this list has the perfect venue for you. If you want to discover more unusual spaces for hire in London get in touch with our Venue Experts today.
Author
Gemma Baker
Gemma loves all things social media and keeps busy by creating lots of Hire Space content. When she’s not creating content, you'll find her shopping, exploring or at the gym!
