Planning a big summer bash? Need a venue with pizzazz? Look no further
Best for riverside views, barbecues
Capacity 170
Best enjoyed on warm summer nights, The Deck is located on the roof of the National Theatre and offers some of the finest views in London. The contemporary events space is currently being redesigned to make the most of its riverside location, with new sliding glass screens and lots of terrace space. Scheduled to reopen in late July, the space will be ideal for barbecues and cocktail receptions.
Best for themed parties, entertainment
Capacity 600
Every June, July and August, the Boiler House on Brick Lane is converted into a party venue for private shindigs, cocktail receptions and casual dining. With plenty of industrial-chic indoor and outdoor space, flexible packages cover venue hire, welcome drinks, a hog roast, garden games and DJ entertainment. Extras can include anything from popcorn carts to photo booths.
Best for art aficionados, chic soirées
Capacity 250
Kensington Gardens is home to two of our favourite modern art galleries: the Serpentine Gallery and the Serpentine Sackler Gallery. Together, they combine the sense of occasion of a Grade II-listed building with the coolness of a contemporary art venue. The former can host private dinners, while both make formidable spaces for a summer drinks reception. From June to October, the temporary pavilion offers another striking location for a standing soirée.
Best for sky-high views, DJ nights
Capacity 400
Found at the top of The Shard, 244m above the capital, The View is a memorable spot for an evening networking event or cocktail party. The Renzo Piano-designed building gives guests 40-mile views in all directions. Best enjoyed at sunset, The View’s two viewing platforms, Level 69 and Sky Deck on Level 72, can hold up to 400 guests in summer months.
Best for large-scale banquets, outdoor pursuits
Capacity 700
Tucked away in a six-acre garden close to the City, the Honourable Artillery Company is well placed for a big outdoor party. Come summer, the vast Artillery Garden space can be hired for fun team-building days and private events. Group activities on offer range from cricket and rugby to croquet and softball. Add-ons include barbecues, Pimm’s receptions and live music.
Best for historic venue, waterside drinks
Capacity 220
Moored near Temple tube, HQS Wellington offers a unique setting for private events. Her prime Thames location gives visitors excellent views of the South Bank, London Eye and river traffic. Its spaces include the wood-panelled Court Room, accessed via an ornate teak staircase; the Model Room, with its collection of antique miniature ships; and the exterior Quarter Deck, which has 180-degree views.