How Much Should You Pay for a Bar in London?
Booking a bar in London for any event can be exciting yet daunting, particularly if it’s your first time. Leave the sighs behind and be glad, because you’re in good hands.
Tagvenue is all about transparent pricing, which is why we’re sharing this guide. In this article, we’ll explore all payment options, provide price ranges, and share tips on how to save money when booking a bar in London.
Common Payment Options For Bars in LDN
First, let’s get familiar with the existing payment options for bars in the city. We’ve rounded up the most popular payment options, each with pros and cons, to help you understand what will work best for your event. Let’s get started!
Minimum Spend
The minimum spend option requires clients to spend a predetermined amount on drinks and food, usually ordered by the guests. If this minimum isn’t met, a separate fee may apply.
For events like wedding receptions or corporate dinners where you already have the final headcount, minimum spend rentals work well as you can easily meet the required amount.
💲💲💲 Price Range: Minimum spends can range from £250 to £5,000 onwards, depending on the bar’s location and popularity. For instance, a trendy spot like Fontaine’s Bar in Shoreditch will have a minimum spend of £1,500 on a Friday night.
Meanwhile, a more exclusive venue such as The Listing near in central London could require a minimum spend of £7,000.
👍 This option allows you to use the bar space without an upfront hire fee if your guests meet the minimum spend. It’s perfect for events with a high turnout and significant consumption, such as graduation parties, seasonal gatherings, concerts or charity events.
👎 If the minimum spend isn’t met, you may face additional charges, which can be risky if attendance or consumption is lower than expected.Cross your fingers for a thirsty crowd!
💡 If you’re after affordable spots, you can filter budgets on Tagvenue to find what suits you best. Places like Studio48 Bar & Kitchen offer bookings from £250 Monday through Thursday and from £650-£950 on Fridays and Saturdays.
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Hourly Hire
Hourly hire lets you book a bar for a set number of hours, ideal for short events like business meetings, presentations, or even a cheeky happy hour.
💲💲💲Price Range: Hourly rates typically range from £100 to £500 per hour for London bars. For example, a laid-back spot like The Stag’s Head in Hackney charges £100 while a classy private room at COMO Metropolitan London in Mayfair goes for £500 per hour.
👍 Enjoy the flexibility of booking just for the time you need, perfect for quick events or when you’re on a tight schedule. What’s included in the hourly hire fee? Usually, it covers just the space, so be sure to clarify what’s included with the venue manager before booking.
👎 Not recommended for longer parties like birthday bashes or weddings due to time constraints, and costs can escalate if your event runs over. Keep an eye on the clock to avoid extra charges. And remember, drinks and nibbles aren’t normally included in the hire fee.
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Per-Session Pricing
Per-session pricing is akin to hourly hire, but it involves renting the bar for a block of hours, usually five or more. It’s perfect for longer events such as baby showers, wedding receptions or those milestone birthday blowouts. Some venues offer reduced rates for daytime sessions, making it a savvy choice for daytime events.
👍 This option gives you exclusive use of the space for the duration of your event, so you can relax and enjoy without constantly worrying. Plus, it often comes with a few extra perks thrown in.
👎 Upfront costs can be higher compared to other options, but the peace of mind of having the venue all to yourself for the entire session is priceless.
💲💲💲Price Range: Per session rates vary widely, from £1,000 to £10,000, depending on the bar’s reputation, location and amenities. A chic venue like The Orangery charges around £600 for a five-hour session and approximately £1,000 for an evening slot. Meanwhile, a luxurious rooftop bar like Uncommon Liverpool Street in East London starts from £3,000 for an evening booking.
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Per-Person Pricing
Per-person pricing is an economical, possibly the most cost-effective way to hire a bar in London, starting at just £5 per person. This option is perfect for events where you have a fixed guest list, such as office parties, networking events, or intimate celebrations like a small wedding reception.
👍 Budgeting becomes a piece of cake with this option, often including options like free drinks and snacks.
👎 Last-minute additions or bespoke arrangements beyond the standard offering can be a tad challenging.
💲💲💲Price Range: Rates typically start from £5 to £10 per person, but can climb to £50 or more. Trendy hangouts like Half The “Other” Bar at The Cat And Mutton in London Fields charge around £10 per person, complete with cocktails and snacks. For those on a tight budget, LOCKES Bar in Covent Garden offers a steal at just £5 per person, accommodating up to 20 guests. On the higher end, a hotspot like the Hard Rock Cafe will cost you around £100 per person.
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Budget Categories
When it comes to party planning, there are bigger decisions to make than choosing between a Fendi dress or those Gucci shoes you’ve been eyeing. Setting a budget before venue-hunting is key. It ensures you find a bar that fits your financial boundaries while still ticking all the boxes for your event.
💲Budget-Friendly Bars
Sometimes, you might be tempted to grab a brown bag with your brews and head to the park to relive your uni days—no need! We’ve rounded up some wallet-friendly options for you.
Look for small pubs and local bars where minimum spends start from £500 or even less, perfect for those laid-back gatherings. Aim for a minimum spend of around £750 for a Saturday night shindig.
Tip: Venture outside central London for even more affordable spots.
Our picks for cheap and cheerful bars:
- Simmons Camden Town – Minimum spend of £300. Affordable with bottled beers at £2.50 and cocktails for £10 (4-9pm)
- Half The “Other” Bar at The Cat And Mutton, London Fields – £10 per person, including drinks and snacks (11am-11pm)
- Bamboo Lounge at Kona Kai, near Chelsea FC stadium – £10 per person, great food and drink packages designed to please everyone.
💲💲Mid-Range Bars
Want to keep it classy without blowing the budget? Opt for a mid-range bar. These venues strike a balance between cost and comfort for a stylish space without the eye-watering bill.
Trendy spots in central London ask for minimum spends ranging from £1,500 to £3,000. Popular joints in Covent Garden might cost you £2,000 for a Friday evening.
Our mid-range favourites:
- Backstage at Eastcheap Records – Bespoke cocktails and tasty bites. No hire fee but a minimum spend from £1,500.
- The Rooftop Terrace bar at Doggett’s Coat and Badge – Stunning views of St. Paul’s and The Shard. Hire fee from £300 + minimum spend £1,500.
💲💲💲Splurge Bars
Ah, le luxe! For those occasions where only the best will do, splash out on a splurge-worthy bar experience. These high-end venues turn any event from mundane to magnificent.
Splurging means you can hire out the entire venue, making your guests feel like VIPs from the get-go.
Consider The Listing with a minimum spend £7,000 for exclusive use. A sleek, modern venue with a full bar selection, perfect for corporate or upscale parties.
Factors Affecting Booking Costs of Bars in London
For those unfamiliar with venue booking, we’ve rounded up a few aspects that affect the prices of venues to help you out.
Seasonality and Days Affecting Bar Pricing
The cost of booking a bar can vary depending on the season and day of the week. The holiday season or Euro 2024 will likely affect the pricing of bars and pubs. When it comes to the days, here are a few things that can help you save some cash:
- Opt for slow days – Monday to Wednesday are generally the slowest days due to work schedules, so prices tend to be lower.
- Avoid busiest days – Fridays and Saturdays are usually the busiest and most expensive days to book a bar.
Consider the Neighbourhood
First, “cheap” and “London” in the same sentence might sound like a joke, but you can make it work by hiring a bar in the right neighbourhood.
If you’re up for organising an event without overspending, consider areas like Peckham, Hackney Wick or Dalston. These neighbourhoods offer a more laid-back vibe and generally cheaper bar options.
Peckham offers pints for just £3—a rare bargain in London! If you’re looking for affordable drinks in the city, this is the place to be.
Now, the location also matters if you’re going all out with a classy event. Fancy bars like the wine room at the Savoy Hotel, or the Sky Garden with its £27,500 hire fee, are sure to impress. These places are perfect for when you want to make a statement and leave your guests in awe (and maybe a little jealous).
Several neighbourhoods stand out for their luxurious and pricey bar hire options including Mayfair, Chelsea, Knightsbridge, Marylebone and the City of London.
What else?
- Other factors, such as the popularity of the bar’s location, type of establishment, and local events can also influence pricing.
- Special promotions or events may drive traffic and prices on other days.
But let’s be real. Not every event needs to be in a ritzy spot. Sometimes, a cosy pub with great beer and good company is all you need.
It’s all about finding the right balance. Use our filters, find your perfect spot, and keep your bank account happy without compromising on fun!
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💰Tips to Save Money When Booking a Bar
- Book in advance: Securing your booking well ahead of time can often result in better deals and availability. Popular venues can be booked months in advance, so early planning is key.
- Look for off peak days or times: Choosing less popular days or times can reduce costs. For example, booking a venue on a Tuesday evening instead of a Friday is cheaper.
- Consider venues with flexible pricing options: Some bars offer discounts for longer hire durations or lower rates during off-peak hours. Negotiating a package deal with drinks and food can also provide better value.
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👛Extra Costs to Watch Out for When Renting a Venue
Brace yourself for the hidden expenses that can sneak up on you!
- Security and insurance: Some venues insist on security guards and event insurance.
- Catering and bar services: If the venue doesn’t provide food and drinks, you’re on the hook. Expect to pay per person and for the bar setup.
- Decorations and rentals: Think of all the pretty things—linens, tableware, chairs, and lights. These can skyrocket based on your Pinterest boards.
- Parking and transportation: Not enough parking? You might end up paying for valet services or shuttle buses.
- Cleanup and damage deposit: Some places charge for cleanup or demand a refundable damage deposit. Always ask so you don’t end up mopping the floors yourself!
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