The Top 8 Unique 30th Birthday Party Ideas in London
Turning 30 is a major milestone, and boy, do we love a good celebration! Whether it’s your BFF’s bash or your very own, it’s time to ring in the new decade in style. But before you dive into the excitement of gifts and bubbly, let’s talk about setting the perfect mood with a killer 30th birthday party theme. When it comes to throwing a grand shindig, there’s no such thing as “too extravagant” or “too fancy” in our book!
So, drumroll, please! Here are our top 8 favourite 30th birthday party ideas in London that are sure to make your jaw drop, and your heart skip a beat! And to make it easier for you to find the perfect space where you could pull these themes, we’ve listed down our top picks!
1920s Retro Party
Start your thirties… in the twenties! Go back to a time of great elegance, full of style and glamour. On this special occasion, party like you’re a member of the fanciest of the American dynasties – in the company of your closest glammed-up friends!
Our top pick for this theme: Shakespeare’s Globe
Swan’s Balcony Room is an excellent venue for a 1920s themed birthday dinner, with its elegant, panelled green walls and statement chandelier evoking the glamour of the Roaring Twenties. The floor-to-ceiling French windows and private balcony offer stunning views of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Thames, and the Globe Theatre, adding a touch of vintage sophistication.
With lift access, a private bar, and space for up to 70 guests for a sit-down dinner, it provides the perfect blend of style and convenience for your themed celebration.
📍 Location: Mansion House Station
🕺 Max capacity: 70 seating
💷 Prices start at: From £1,000 minimum spend
Neon Party
Why not go with the glow? Put some 80s and 90s vinyl records on, cover yourselves with UV paint and shine like the rockstars you are!
Our top pick for this theme: NEON DEN
Celebrate your birthday in a bright and energetic manner in the Neon Den at Barrio Shoreditch! This space is filled with neon lights, making for unforgettable birthday pictures. Check the space and get ready for a great summer party!
📍 Location: Shoreditch High Street
🕺 Max capacity: 80 seated
💷 Prices start at: £2000 min. spend
Casino Royale
Tuxes, elegant dresses, a party filled with gambling and Vesper Lynd – sounds like a dream? It can be your reality! Well, for one night at least. Just remember to leave your party guests shaken, not stirred.
Our top pick for this theme: The Hippodrome Casino
Get your heart pumping in The Hippodrome Casino, the biggest and busiest casino in London. No other day is as perfect for challenging your luck as your 30th birthday, so take a chance! If you ever wished to feel like a secret agent for just one night, this is the spot for you.
📍 Location: Leicester Square Station
🕺 Max capacity: 140 seated
💷 Prices start at: £40 per person / per session
Arabian Nights
If you’re up for a truly extravagant and luxurious evening, an Arabian Nights theme is just what you’re looking for. Think ornaments, beautiful colours and sumptuous food & drinks. Enjoy a Middle Eastern style party with a luxurious Lebanese menu will give your guests magical memories and hopefully leave them with stories worth writing down in the next ”One Thousand and One Nights” tales.
Our top pick: Kenza Restaurant & Lounge
Kenza Restaurant & Lounge invites you to experience your birthday in the most luxurious and refined way possible. Relax in the satin cushions and enjoy the home-style Lebanese dishes in the dimly lit atmosphere. Sounds like a dream? Then this is the space for you.
📍Location: Aldgate Station
🕺 Max capacity: 250 seated
💷 Prices start at: £15000 – £20000 minimum spend / per session
5. Black Tie Premiere
Lights, camera, action! It’s time to strut down the red carpet because for your 30th birthday, we’re pulling out all the stops.
Picture this: you’re walking into your 30s like a Hollywood star, and a private screening room is transformed into a glitzy premiere night. We’re talking about a red carpet entrance, paparazzi (a.k.a. your best mates ready with their camera flashes), and of course, a grand VIP section just for you, the star of the show!
Our top pick for this theme: Everyman Screen on the Green
Everyman Screen on the Green is not just a venue; it’s a destination that offers a truly immersive and luxe cinematic experience. With its classy, comfortable seating, unique design, and fantastic facilities, it’s the ultimate choice for this theme, and its ready to make your 30th birthday as unforgettable as a Hollywood classic!
📍 Location: Islington
🕺 Max capacity: 125 seated
💷 Prices start at: £600 minimum spend
6. Tropical Luau
How about catching some waves of fun and setting sail into your new decade? For your 30th, leave the mainland behind and hop on board a mighty vessel for a rollicking sun-kissed afternoon with your best pals on the River Thames. And the dress code? Nothing but fun! It’s all about bright colours, Hawaiian shirts, hula skirts, and lei garlands.
Our top pick for this theme: West End on the Thames
This isn’t just a boat charter; it’s your ticket to a memorable, tropical-inspired birthday bash amidst the stunning panorama of the River Thames! Prepare to make waves as you cruise into your 30s, basking under the sky on the expansive deck and admiring the iconic London skyline.
📍 Location: Westminster Pier
🕺 Max capacity: Up to 175 seats
💷 Prices start at: £6000 per day
7. Midsummer Night’s Dream
Perhaps you’d like to trade in your party hat for a flower crown? Then turn your big 3-0 into a whimsical soiree straight out of Shakespeare’s Folio and have a Midsummer Night’s Dream in your very own enchanted garden!
You can easily set the stage for a night of magic and mystery by having fairy lights twinkling in the trees, delicate floral garlands swaying in the breeze, and cosy clusters of cushions strewn across the lawn!
Our top pick for this theme: Brasserie Blanc Southbank
This dreamy, lush haven nestled in the heart of London is not just a venue – it’s a secret garden waiting to whisk you away into an enchanting world of celebration. As you step onto the picturesque summer terrace, you’ll be greeted by a lush wisteria canopy that bathes the space in dappled sunlight. It’s the perfect stage for the whimsical soirée that will mark your 30th birthday as magical.
📍Location: Waterloo
🕺Max capacity: Up to 30 standing
💷Prices start at: £600 minimum spend
8. Classy Thirty
Celebrate your birthday in refined elegance – no need to go overboard. Organise a classy dinner party, tailored to your style. Invite guests to dress to the nines in Bond suits and Holly Golightly attire. Set the scene with monochromatic décor, adding a touch of gold or your favorite hue for some flair.
Our top pick for this theme: The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan
Our top recommendation: The Portrait Restaurant by Richard Corrigan. Located atop the National Portrait Gallery, it offers exquisite views and a menu blending classic and contemporary dishes. Ideal for a sophisticated 30th birthday bash as unique as you.
📍Location: Central London
🕺Max capacity: Up to 80 seating
💷Prices start at: £80 per person
To Wrap Things Up
And there you have it! These 8 unique and absolutely smashing 30th birthday party ideas in London will definitely make your big day nothing short of epic!
Turning 30 is not just about celebrating three decades of wonderful you – it’s about stepping into the next chapter of your life with style! So, go ahead, pick a theme that speaks to your heart, gather your favourite people, and get ready to create unforgettable memories. In case you need some more inspiration, here are another 30+ exciting 30th birthday ideas!
No matter what you choose, your 30th birthday in London is bound to be the right corker! And remember, the best is yet to come. Happy Birthday!
P.S. If you want a hand in organising the party, check out our ultimate guide on planning the perfect birthday party. It has everything you need to know about throwing a memorable celebration!
FAQ
How to throw a 30th birthday party on a budget?
The key is to plan your event from scratch and according to your budget. Apart from that, there are plenty of tips and tricks to keep the birthday party budget relatively low and still have a memorable celebration! Here are some of them that really make a difference.
Party at home or a free venue – Forget those pricey venues; your home can be just as fabulous! Transform your backyard, living room, or even a local park (check local regulations first!) into a party hub. All you need is some creativity and a DIY spirit!
Prepare DIY Decorations – Who needs pricey store-bought decor when you can DIY? Think homemade bunting, paper lanterns, or even a photo collage of the birthday star’s best moments. It’s not just cheaper, but adds a personal touch too!
Have a potluck party – Instead of catering, why not ask your guests to bring something delicious that they enjoy? It’s a great way to ensure a feast without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s super fun to sample everyone’s culinary prowess!
Be your own DJ – Forget the expensive DJ; your playlist can get the party hopping just as well! Spend some time creating a killer party playlist, or better yet, ask your guests to share their favourite songs in advance.
Choose a budget friendly theme – Pick a party theme that doesn’t require extravagant props or costumes. How about a Decades party where guests dress from their favourite decade, or a Pyjama Party for a comfy yet fun vibe?
Digital Invites – Save on paper and postage with digital invites. There are plenty of free resources online where you can design your own invitations.
Create a selfie station – Instead of a professional photographer, set up a DIY selfie station. All you need is a funky backdrop, some props, and everyone’s smartphones!
A great party isn’t about how much you spend, but the memories you make. So keep it simple, keep it fun, and most importantly, don’t forget to enjoy yourself. After all, it’s your party and you should have a blast, budget or no budget! Want some more tricks? Discover our 12 cheap birthday party ideas!
How to celebrate a 30th birthday?
Apart from having a fabulous, themed birthday party, you can also:
Create a trip down memory lane – Your 30th birthday is a great time to look back at the fabulous journey you’ve had so far. Why not create a photo slideshow or a memory box filled with tokens from your past? It’s a lovely way to reminisce and appreciate your life and experience.
Make a wish from your bucket list – A milestone birthday is perfect for crossing some things off your bucket list! Whether it’s trying out salsa dancing, having a karaoke night, or attending a food festival with all your favourite cuisines, it’s a great way to kick-start your new decade!
Do something adventurous – If you’re more of an outdoorsy type, why not plan an adventure for your 30th? It could be anything from a camping trip, a hiking expedition, or even a hot air balloon ride. Talk about a birthday to remember!
Give something back – Perhaps you want to do something truly meaningful on your birthday? Consider volunteering at a local shelter or hosting a charity event. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate your day by making a difference in others’ lives.
What is the best theme for a 30th birthday party?
The best theme is one that revolves around your personality, hobbies, and interests! So make sure that you choose something that you will have fun with. Perhaps you’re a foodie who loves Italian cuisine? Then you can host a cooking party where you and your guests create mouth-watering dishes while sipping on Italian wine and listening to Italian music.
The point is that you should choose a theme that your guests will instantly know that it’s your big 3-0!
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