Summer in the city is in full swing and so the capital’s museums and attractions are chock-a-block by day. Use one for your next evening event and you’ll get all of the atmosphere with none of the crowds
USP Art-filled spaces
Max capacity 700
This 19th-century building houses the world’s largest collection of art and design. Several of its galleries, featuring some of its finest works, can be hired for events. Our pick of its spaces, though, is The Dome, with its soaring ceiling and room for 700 guests.
USP Serious city views
Max capacity 400
Right at the top of London’s tallest building – 244m up above the city – the views from this venue definitely give it that all-important wow factor. Guests at an event can see up to 40 miles away, in all directions. Breakfast events are particularly popular here.
USP Quintessential London goals
Max capacity 250
It’s hard to imagine something more visually London than Tower Bridge. Its Walkways, linking the north and south towers, feature a glass floor that gives guests views of the river below. The Victorian Engine Rooms, on the other hand, are all about atmosphere.
USP Museum-themed corporate gifts
Max capacity 330
We’re a fan of this one for the Norman Foster-designed contemporary events area, and the tailored tours of the museum’s exhibitions that can be added on. Plus the corporate gifts inspired by the museum’s international collection (think stone replicas of Greek goddesses and Chinese porcelain vases) make a nice addition to goodie-bags.
USP Home of the red London bus
Max capacity 500
The capital’s transport history is documented at this Covent Garden venue, with vintage Routemaster buses and iconic posters among its collection. Events benefit from using its exhibits as a backdrop. For strictly business affairs, the purpose-built Cubic Theatre is readymade for conferencing.
USP Royally good interiors
Max capacity 400
As a former home of King Henry VIII, lavish celebrations have been going on here for centuries. The Great Hall – once a dining room for members of the King’s court – is the standout space, with its historic features in fine condition. The 20th-century Garden is the spot for summer parties.
USP Historic sailing ship
Max capacity 450
The Grade I-listed tea clipper ship is now suspended from the ground so that guests can be entertained beneath its striking copper-clad hull. Smaller gatherings can be held on board in either the Tween Deck or the mahogany panelled Master’s Saloon – a fine spot for VIP dinners.
USP Outdoor events for all seasons
Max capacity 1,500
Neo-classical Somerset House is hard to miss on the south side of the Strand. There are plenty of indoor spaces, but we like the versatility of its outdoor areas. During the summer months its grand terrace overlooking the Thames makes a fine spot for receptions, while in winter you can exclusively hire the ice rink for a truly spectacular Christmas party.
USP Rooftop on the South Bank
Max capacity 400
In 2015 this famous riverside theatre went through an £80m redevelopment. Three restaurants and an auditorium were added, meaning even more choice for event organisers. Our favourite space is The Deck, a rooftop venue with an alfresco terrace and views of the London skyline.
Want more museums, galleries and attractions that’ll make an impression on your event invite? Sure thing, they’re right here.