Affordable Party Venues for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Affordable Party Venues in London

Partying in London doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. This vast city has many affordable party venues that would be perfect for your event. Not sure where to start? We’ve got you covered! Not only have we listed the best and most affordable options for hire all in one place, we’re also happy to share our savvy cheap hire tips to save you money. Check them out below!

Cheap party venue hire in London – Tips, Tricks and Ideas:

• Set a Budget - It’s good to know your limits. Create a budget and deciding how much you can spend on each party element will help you with organisation and decision-making. It’s also sensible to set apart a small sum for unexpected expenses as well. If there’s something you really want to include in your hire, like a DJ or other expensive party entertainment, set your budget around that one item.
• Get Started Now -  If you search for the venue well in advance, you will be able to choose the spot that suits you best and fits your budget. If you hold off until the last minute, you will have some very limited options to choose from. Although we are more than happy to assist you with your search, even if it's a late one, if you’re looking for affordable venue hire we recommend securing it as soon as possible.
• Look Outside the City Centre – Venture a bit further from the city centre and see what’s on offer. London is full of hidden gems like private bars or lounges and many of them can be hired at amazingly low prices. With the city’s great public transportation system, hiring even a less-centrally located club should not cause any problems for your guests.
• Go Off-Season – Many cheap party venues actually offer much lower rates when you book outside peak times. Hosting your celebration on a weekday evening instead of a busy Saturday can save you hundreds of pounds! Sometimes, even the time of the hire can make a difference in pricing. Unless your party has to take place on a particular date, be flexible when deciding on the time and day of your event.
• Pick a Right-Sized Venue – Hiring a party hall for 300 guests when you’re only expecting 100 makes no sense. Usually, the bigger the venue, the higher the price. Picking an event venue that’s not too big and not too small is the golden rule of cheap party venue hire. If you’re unsure how many people will show up to your bash, send out invitations with an RSVP.
• Find a BYO space –  You save a significant sum on drinks alone simply by picking a party venue that allows you to bring your own booze. Make sure to check if they charge a corkage fee, although – if that’s the case, remember to calculate it into your budget.
• Decide on the decorations -  If you want to cut down on party costs, don’t go overboard with your decorations. Going wild in a party store can severely impact your budget. If you want to include some special adornments see if you can rent them for your party. It could also be a smart idea to decide on a venue with an attractive interior or a party package offer, so no further decoration is necessary. You can also contact the venue manager to see if the venue has any decorations that you could hire for your celebration.
• Go for a minimum spend - Minimum spend hire means you don’t pay a hire fee. Instead, you and your guests guarantee to spend an agreed-upon minimum amount on food and drinks during the party. It’s an affordable party venue hire option that becomes easier if you encourage your guests to spend money at the bar

Here are some suggestions for cheap party venues that may be suitable for your celebration:

• The Famous Cock Tavern - a vintage-themed bar perfect for parties and after-work drinks for around 100 people. With its famous cocktail bar, you will have no problem meeting any minimum spend requirements. This party spot also offers different packages, so you will find the best pricing option for your event.
• Dalston Cosy & Stylish Loft - as the name suggests, this stylish loft is a dream place for your small party. With its beautiful decor, it won’t require many changes from you to fit your event. Different pricing options allow you to hire this affordable party venue within your budget. 
• St. Ethelburga's Centre - combining both historic arches and modern architecture this unique party venue will wow your guests. With different on-site equipment, you will get everything you need for your event at the hire price. Different pricing options will also allow you to choose what’s best for you and your guests.
  
• House of Transformation - Event Space - this multi-purpose venue will fit right into your party vibe. It also allows BYO catering, with a fully equipped kitchen on-site, so you are sure to work within your budget here. Located minutes away from Haggerston Station, it can be easily accessed by train.
  

Catering Without Breaking The Bank

Organising a party in London and keeping it within a budget can seem like a daunting task, especially when it comes to catering. Food and drink are central to any event, but they don't have to drain your wallet. This guide will walk you through innovative and cost-effective catering ideas that promise to delight your guests without compromising on quality or variety.

• Embrace the Potluck Trend: One of the most budget-friendly and engaging ways to cater to your party is by organising a potluck. Encourage each guest to bring a dish or drink to share. This not only reduces the cost but also adds a personal touch to the party, allowing guests to showcase their stunning cooking skills and share their favourite recipes. To ensure variety, coordinate the dishes in advance, perhaps creating a sign-up sheet for appetisers, mains, desserts, and beverages!
• Street Food Stalls: London's street food scene can be a fantastic source of inspiration for your party catering. Many local vendors offer catering services at competitive prices. From classic fish and chips to exotic international dishes, these stalls can provide a diverse menu that caters to all tastes. Hiring a street food stall not only supports local businesses but also adds an exciting, urban edge to your event.
• DIY Food Bars: Setting up DIY food bars is another excellent way to keep costs down while offering a fun, interactive experience for your guests. Popular options include a taco bar, a burger station, or a bagel bar for brunch-themed parties. Provide the basic components and a variety of toppings, and let your guests assemble their own creations. This approach not only cuts down on catering staff costs but also satisfies various dietary preferences and restrictions.
• Budget-Friendly Beverage Solutions: Drinks can quickly become one of the most expensive aspects of party planning. To keep costs low, consider offering a limited selection of beverages. A signature cocktail, alongside a couple of beer and wine options, can satisfy guests without necessitating a full bar. Alternatively, a BYOB (Bring Your Own Bottle) policy can also be a great way to ensure a diverse selection of drinks without the associated cost. Just be sure that your chosen venue allows coming in with your own beverages.
• Collaborate with Culinary Schools: Partnering with a local culinary school can be a win-win situation. Students gain valuable real-world experience, and you benefit from lower catering costs. These budding chefs can offer innovative menus that are more affordable than professional catering services. Ensure you discuss your budget and requirements with the school in advance to tailor the service to your event's needs.
• Wholesale Shopping for DIY Catering: If you're up for doing some of the cooking yourself, buying ingredients in bulk from wholesale retailers can significantly reduce costs. Preparing a few simple, crowd-pleasing dishes in large quantities can be more budget-friendly than you might think. Consider dishes that can be made in advance and served easily, such as pasta salads, baked casseroles, or a selection of finger foods.

Catering for your party in London doesn't have to be an extravagant affair. With a little creativity, you can provide a memorable dining experience for your guests without exceeding your budget. Remember, the essence of a great party lies in the company and the joy of shared experiences, not the extravagance of the offerings!

Budget-Friendly Photography and Videography

Capturing the memories of your London party shouldn't have to cost a fortune. With some insider knowledge, you can document your event with stunning photos and videos without blowing your budget. This guide offers practical tips and strategies to help you find affordable photography and videography solutions that will allow you to relive your party moments for years to come.

• Leverage Student Talent: One of the best-kept secrets in affordable event documentation is tapping into the talent pool of photography and videography students. Many students are eager to build their portfolios and gain real-world experience, often willing to work at a fraction of the cost of professional photographers and videographers. Reach out to local art schools and universities to connect with students. Not only are you getting a cost-effective service, but you're also supporting the next generation of artists.
• Community Platforms and Social Media: Platforms like Instagram and Facebook can be goldmines for discovering up-and-coming photographers who offer competitive rates. Use hashtags related to London photography or event videography to find local talent. Always check their online portfolios to ensure their style matches your vision. Engaging with emerging artists not only fits your budget but also gives you the chance to have a unique artistic take on your event.
• DIY Photography Stations: Set up a DIY photo booth or video message station where guests can capture their own moments using a smartphone or a rented camera. Provide props and a backdrop to encourage fun and spontaneous captures. You can also create a special event hashtag and ask your guests to tag their photos and videos on social media, allowing you to easily collect and share memories from the party.
• Collaborative Photo and Video Apps: Several mobile apps, such as Google Drive, allow guests to upload photos and videos to a private event album, offering a collaborative way to compile memories. This approach not only saves money but also gives you a wider range of moments captured from various perspectives. After the event, you can curate and share a digital album or even create a highlight reel from the collected content.
• Rent Equipment Instead of Hiring Professionals: If you have a friend or family member with a good eye, consider renting high-quality photography or videography equipment for them to use during the event. Rental shops offer professional-grade cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment at a fraction of the cost of hiring a professional for the night. This option allows for high-quality results without the professional price tag.
• Edit Your Own Content: With the plethora of video and photo editing software available today, turning raw footage into polished memories has never been easier. Free and low-cost editing tools are sufficient for basic editing tasks like cutting clips, adding music, or retouching photos. Tutorials and templates can guide you through the process, making it possible to produce a beautiful record of your event with a personal touch.

Remember, the value of your event memories doesn’t lie in how much you spend, but in the authenticity and joy they capture. By employing these creative solutions, you can preserve the special moments of your London party without stretching your budget. The key is to plan ahead, get creative, and remember that the best memories are those shared with the people you care about.

FAQs about Affordable Party Venues in London

How much does it cost to hire a cheap party venue in London?

Although London is known for its high price tag, you can still hire affordable venues. You can find plenty of cheap party venues, including per person packages that start at as low as £12. If you’re looking for a minimum spend hire for your next celebration, expect prices to start at £100. You can also find bars for groups and nightclubs charging hourly rates, with pricing starting at £20 per hour. Remember, the hiring rates for these venues can vary depending on the day of the week and the time of the day, with weekday morning prices being the lowest. (Based on Tagvenue data.)

Which areas of London are best for finding affordable party venues?

While Soho or Shoreditch are best known for their nightlife, and we are sure you'll find a bar with private rooms that fits your budget there, why not try other areas of London for party on a budget? Try The Angel or Islington, which, while not being the main spots for pubs and bars, are still filled with great (and cheap) party spaces. Search along The Upper Street and you are sure to find just what you need to host a great celebration. After undergoing a gentrification process in recent years, Brixton has also become a new spot for partying, but still with lower prices than central London. If you don’t mind venturing out of the city centre, you will also be able to find amazing venues in North and West London.

Can I hire a unique and cheap party venue in London?

The short answer is: yes, affordable doesn’t mean regular or boring! With the many amazing party spaces London offers, you will surely find the unique spot you’re looking for. Refurbished lofts and warehouses are uncommon spaces that can make a great backdrop for your party and won’t cost you a ton! A studio is a cheaper option; you can adjust and decorate it to match your ideas and make it unique. Hiring a waterside venue will grant you beautiful views of the Thames river and add the wow factor to your event. 

Can I rent a party venue in London for free?

Yes, there is a possibility to hire a venue for free! Look for bars and gastropubs that offer minimum spend options. This means that you and your guests will have to spend the minimum agreed amount on food and drinks. Just bear in mind that if you fail to do so, you will have to pay the missing difference.