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5 Top Tips For Booking Large Event Venues in London
Wednesday 13 March 2024
Whilst the process of finding and booking the right venue is much the same for any size of event, there are some aspects of booking large event or conference venues in London which require close attention to avoid potential costly mistakes...
Having helped over 100 clients book events for 500+ attendees over recent years, we have compiled this helpful list of top tips to help you navigate successfully from venue finding to event delivery.
1) Start the process early
Whilst there are hundreds of event venues in the capital, when it comes to large venues, London offers a more limited choice (see our favourites below!). With many larger events taking up multi-day occupancies, these bigger spaces get booked up well in advance, so you will be left with a limited choice if you leave your venue finding too late.
2) Read the contract!
This may seem a bit obvious but it is really important to understand the commitment you are making when signing the contract for large event venues in London. Key areas to review include cancellation terms (which may be different to payment terms), restrictions on the use of suppliers and the costs of unquoted extras. The only time to renegotiate is before signing, so make sure you fully understand the terms you are signing up to.
3) Research your suppliers
If you require outside caterers and production companies to deliver your event, make sure you have quotations from these suppliers before you contract the venue so that you have a full understanding of the total cost of event delivery. Always try to use suppliers who have worked regularly in the venue since they can help you with ideas of design and delivery, based on their recent experience.
4) Don’t forget your audience
With so much focus on planning the delivery of the event, many event planners lack sufficient focus on the all-important pre-event communication, which can lead to low attendance (and higher costs per head). Whether it is a client event, internal conference of seasonal party, planners need reminding that the event needs selling in to the tragert audience to deliver pre-event audience engagement and maximum attendance.
5) Maximise your ROI through outreach
One of the very few benefits to the events industry of the Pandemic is the improvements in live streaming technologies and capabilities. This means that the reach of conference messages can be better delivered to international audiences without the need to travel (with all the associated sustainability benefits). In addition, having great video and stills photography can greatly increase an event’s ROI through social outreach, extending the impact of the event for many weeks after the live day.
If you would like help finding the right large venues in London for your upcoming events, please reach out to the team on hello@venuesearchlondon.com or all the team on 020 7870 9305.
And finally, here are our favourites from the many large venues London has to offer grouped by attendee capacity:
250-500 SEATED CAPACITY LONDON VENUES
De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms
Grand Connaught Rooms has a long history of hosting unforgettable events for an extensive list of famous faces and this luxury London event venue comes to life at night taking its rightful place as one of London’s premier event venues for parties, celebrations, corporate events, awards and fashion shows.
With an enviable location in the heart of Covent Garden, only a short stroll from two tube stations, car parking facilities and a five minute taxi ride from three major train stations, the Grand Connaught Rooms is perfectly situated for your guests.
The amazing hall boasts a 42 foot ceiling, imposing chandeliers and arched Art Deco design. The Balmoral Suite located adjacent to the Grand Hall has its own full service bar facilities and ideal location for your pre-dinner drinks reception or catering area.
8 Northumberland Avenue
8 Northumberland Avenue is just a short walk from Charing Cross station and Trafalgar Square and is described by English Heritage as 'the grandest example of a Victorian ballroom in existence'. Hire 8 Northumberland as an incredibly grand venue for your Christmas party, conference, standing reception, product launch or exhibition.
8 Northumberland Avenue has a rich history dating back to 1887, when The Northumberland Avenue Hotel Company wanted to build a 500-room hotel that would exceed the expectations of Victorian travellers.
The Ballroom is the jewel of the venue and perfect for an incredible Christmas at 8 Northumberland Avenue. The high ceilings, impressive chandeliers alongside cutting-edge technology makes the Ballroom perfect for glamorous Awards ceremonies, Product launches, Premieres and receptions of all kinds.
One Marylebone
One Marylebone is an exceptional venue choice for corporate events, offering a captivating and versatile space in the heart of London. Located in the exclusive area of Marylebone, this historic Grade I listed venue seamlessly blends modern amenities with its stunning original architecture, creating a sophisticated and unique setting for any occasion.
Originally designed by Sir John Soane and completed in 1828, One Marylebone boasts a rich heritage that adds an air of elegance and prestige to any corporate event. Its prime location is easily accessible, making it convenient for attendees arriving from different parts of the city.
The venue's interior is a breathtaking fusion of contemporary design and classical features. The main space, The Soane Hall, is the centerpiece of the venue and can accommodate a large number of guests. With its high ceilings, grand chandeliers, and exquisite detailing, this room provides an unforgettable backdrop for conferences and product launches.
500-750 SEATED CAPACITY LONDON VENUES
The Brewery
The Brewery is a renowned and sophisticated large London venue that offers a remarkable setting for corporate events, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking an exceptional experience. Located in the heart of a bustling metropolis, this unique event space provides a fusion of historic charm and contemporary design, creating an ambiance that leaves a lasting impression on guests.
At The Brewery, businesses have the opportunity to host a wide array of corporate events, including conferences, seminars, product launches, award ceremonies, and networking receptions. With versatile spaces that can accommodate both intimate gatherings and large-scale functions, the venue offers tailored solutions to meet the specific requirements of any event.
The Brewery's hallmark is its historical significance, as it was originally the site of the Whitbread Brewery, established in the 18th century. Meticulous restoration has transformed the venue into a stunning blend of modern architecture and industrial heritage.
Tate Modern
Tate Modern, located in London, is one of the world's most renowned contemporary art museums and a popular large venue for hosting corporate events. With its iconic architecture and impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, the museum offers a unique and inspiring setting for a wide range of corporate functions.
When it comes to hosting corporate events, Tate Modern provides various spaces that can be tailored to meet different needs. The museum offers several versatile event spaces, including galleries, auditoriums, conference rooms, and a panoramic terrace with stunning views of the city skyline. These spaces can accommodate small intimate gatherings or large-scale events, such as conferences, product launches, receptions, and gala dinners.
One of the key advantages of hiring Tate Modern for corporate events is the opportunity to engage with art and culture. The museum's exceptional collection of contemporary artworks creates an immersive and stimulating atmosphere.
The Londoner
The Londoner Hotel, located in the heart of London, is an ideal venue for hosting corporate events, offering a luxurious and sophisticated setting that caters to all your business needs. With its world-class facilities and impeccable service, The Londoner Hotel ensures that your corporate event is a resounding success.
Upon entering the hotel, guests are greeted by a grand lobby adorned with elegant decor, setting the tone for a memorable experience. The Londoner Hotel boasts a range of versatile event spaces that can accommodate various types of corporate gatherings, from business conferences and seminars to product launches and executive meetings. The venue offers state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, high-speed internet access, and dedicated event staff to assist with any technical requirements.
For larger corporate events, the hotel's ballroom is an exquisite choice, featuring a spacious layout and stylish design, capable of accommodating hundreds of attendees.
750-1,000 SEATED CAPACITY LONDON VENUES
The Roundhouse
The Roundhouse is an iconic and versatile venue located in London, renowned for hosting a wide range of corporate events. Its history dates back to the 19th century when it was originally constructed as a steam-engine repair shed. Today, it has been transformed into a vibrant and unique event space, blending its industrial heritage with modern amenities.
The Roundhouse offers a variety of spaces suitable for corporate events of different sizes and formats. Its most significant space is the Main Space, an impressive circular area with a high domed ceiling, capable of accommodating up to 1,800 guests. This expansive area provides a captivating backdrop for large-scale conferences, product launches, award ceremonies, and presentations. State-of-the-art audiovisual equipment is available to ensure seamless event execution.
Royal Lancaster London
Royal Lancaster London is a luxurious and prestigious venue, perfect for hosting corporate events. Located in the heart of London, with stunning views of Hyde Park and the city's skyline, it offers a unique and sophisticated setting for various occasions.
The hotel boasts a range of versatile event spaces, designed to cater to a wide variety of corporate gatherings, including conferences, seminars, product launches, workshops, and networking events. Each venue is equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual facilities and high-speed internet access, ensuring a seamless and successful event experience.
The Nine Kings Suite is the hotel's flagship space and can accommodate large-scale conferences and gala dinners. With its stylish decor and a capacity to host up to 1,000 guests, it leaves a lasting impression on attendees. For smaller meetings or intimate gatherings, the hotel offers several elegant boardrooms and meeting rooms with top-notch amenities.
City Central at The HAC
Hire the Artillery Garden and enjoy the Historic Armoury House as a breath-taking backdrop for your event. It is the perfect venue for your Summer party, with the summer marquee being able to accommodate up to 2,000 guests for a standing reception and 950 for a seated dinner.
The Artillery Garden at The HAC is one of London’s large venues located in the heart of the City and has record of one of the earliest games of cricket in history, taking place in 1925. Interestingly, the first balloon ascent in England began at the Artillery Garden in 1784. As the venue takes pride of place in the heart of the city, it makes it very easily accessible for your guests for corporate events, especially as its just a stones throw away from Moorgate and Liverpool Street station.
1,000+ SEATED CAPACITY LONDON VENUES
Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott Hotel
Hire Grosvenor House, A JW Marriott as a luxury five-star hotel, based in London’s Mayfair district, just a stone’s throw away from Hyde Park, Buckingham Palace and Oxford Street. With 23 events spaces available, this large London venue is ideal for conferences, receptions and Christmas parties, and can accommodate up to 2,000 guests for a standing reception or 1,500 for banqueting in the Great Room.
The distinguished Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane dates back almost 350 years and now offers 5-star accommodation and striking event spaces. The prime location in Mayfair makes the venue easily accessible for all your guests.
The Great Room has been newly refurbished alongside some of the smaller rooms, including the Executive lounge. Grosvenor House offers smaller spaces, ideal for breakout rooms or catering spaces, from 15 to 35 guests boardroom style and 25 to 80 guests theatre style.
Magazine London
Magazine London is an iconic and versatile event space located in the heart of the British capital, offering an ideal venue for hosting corporate events. Spanning over 24,000 square feet, this stunning facility is situated on the banks of the River Thames, providing breathtaking views of Canary Wharf and the city skyline, ideal for large scale events. Whether you're planning a conference, exhibition, product launch, gala dinner, or any other corporate event, Magazine London offers the perfect backdrop to make a lasting impression.
Designed to accommodate a wide range of events, Magazine London boasts a maximum capacity of up to 3,000 guests, providing ample space for large-scale gatherings. The venue's flexibility allows for customisable setups, ensuring that it can cater to both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. It features a blank canvas design, allowing event organisers to personalise the space to suit their specific requirements and branding.
Evolution London
Evolution London is a leading large event venues in London, specialising in hosting corporate events. With their expertise and dedication to providing exceptional service, they have established themselves as a premier choice for businesses seeking to create memorable and successful events.
When hiring Evolution London for corporate events, you can expect a seamless and professional experience from start to finish. They offer a wide range of services, including event planning, venue selection, catering, audiovisual production, and more. Their team of experienced event planners will work closely with you to understand your specific goals and requirements, ensuring that every aspect of your event is meticulously planned and executed.
One of the key advantages of hiring Evolution London is their stunning venue. Located in Battersea Park, London, their state-of-the-art facility offers a versatile space that can be tailored to accommodate events of various sizes and formats.
These are just some of many great large venues London has to offer. Our team of free venue finding experts are on hand to create the perfect shortlist of venues in London for your next event.
Please complete our quick enquiry form with your specific dates, budget and ideal location and we will use our experience and venue relationships to save you both time and money.
Alternatively, please send us a quick e mail or call our team now on 0207 870 9305 to discuss suitable venues for your next event.
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