Top Conference Trends & What to Look for in a Venue
- Unique Venues – Unconventional industrial spaces and converted warehouses make conferences more dynamic and encourage networking. Look for venues with flexible layouts that can adapt to different session formats.
- Hybrid & Interactive Events – Choose venues with built-in live streaming, video conferencing, and audience polling tech to ensure remote attendees stay engaged. Strong Wi-Fi and AV support are non-negotiable.
- Immersive Experiences – Spaces that allow for branded décor, custom name badges, and unique catering (like themed cocktail receptions) help create a lasting impression.
- Advanced Event Tech – Venues with dedicated event apps, real-time social media integration, touchscreen kiosks, and live translation services take engagement to the next level. Bonus points for unique tech features like digital graffiti walls!
- Green events - Eco-friendly venues with recycled materials, local organic catering, and strong sustainability values will showcase your company’s commitment to CSR and resonate with attendees.
- The right mix of famous and little-known guest speakers - Big-name keynote speakers will help draw crowds, while lesser-known experts offer fresh insights that will help you save some money. (Pro tip: Top conference spaces often have special areas during breakout sessions where guest speakers can mingle with attendees to keep the discussion going.)
How to Plan a Successful Conference in London
Planning a conference? Here’s what you need to know to make it a success.
- Book your venue early – Top conference venues in Central London, Westminster, and East London get snapped up fast. Secure your spot early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Pick a convenient location – A venue near Heathrow is great for international guests, while a Central London spot makes commuting easier. Choose what works best for your attendees.
- Lock in speakers & set a clear agenda – A well-planned theme attracts top speakers and keeps your event organised. Book your key speakers early to avoid missing out.
- Use social media to promote your event – Build hype, increase attendance, and keep the conversation going after the conference ends.
- Plan the details – Walk through your schedule as an attendee. Arrive early for setup, check the tech (Wi-Fi, projectors, mics), and confirm details with vendors to avoid surprises.
- Keep your schedule engaging – Balance panels and individual talks, and include breaks every 60–80 minutes to keep energy levels up.
- Stay on schedule – Give speakers clear time slots, allow for smooth transitions, and double-check tech setups to keep everything running seamlessly.
A venue can make or break an event, so read up on how to choose a conference venue before you start your search.
What to Know When Hiring a Conference Space
Here’s what to keep in mind to make sure your event runs smoothly and keeps attendees engaged.
- Budget – London conference venues range from budget-friendly to high-end. The cheapest conference spaces in London can be hired for as little as £300 per session or £30–£60 per person, while the most exclusive and largest conference halls can exceed £10,000. Set a budget early so you can compare options and avoid surprises.
- A convenient location – Choose a venue with good public transport links and parking. If guests are travelling, nearby hotels and restaurants are a plus. Check for ramps, lifts, and wide doorways for accessibility.
- Venue Type – Make sure the space fits your event. Hosting a lot of guests and trying to make a big impression? Look at auditoriums, theatres, or halls. Do you want something more intimate and less formal? Try a meeting room, cafe, or dining room.
- Attendee Count – Avoid a venue that feels too empty or cramped. Estimate attendance and choose a space that is comfortable but still has a good atmosphere. London offers large conference halls and smaller meeting spaces, so you’ll have options.
- Booking Timeline – Popular venues fill up fast, especially for big events. Lock in your space early—at least a year in advance for large conferences or at least 1-3 months ahead for smaller ones.
- Facilities & Tech Support – Check if the venue has essentials like Wi-Fi, microphones, projectors, and flipcharts. Need breakout areas, kitchen access, or outdoor spaces? Ask in advance. Also, find out if there’s onsite tech support for handling last-minute glitches.
- Catering Options – Decide if you want in-house catering or prefer to bring in your own. Either way, make sure the menu includes options to cover dietary needs.
- Cancellation Policies – Things don’t always go as planned. Check the venue’s cancellation terms before booking. Some may charge a fee or keep part of your deposit. Having a backup plan never hurts.
- Setup & Timing – Ask how early you can arrive to set up and when you’ll need to pack up. Knowing these details helps you avoid last-minute stress.
The most popular districts or locations for conferences in London
City of London – London’s financial hub offers sleek, high-tech conference venues for corporate events. With so many businesses nearby, finding a modern and well-equipped space is easy.
Central London – From Westminster to Covent Garden, this area has everything from grand halls to flexible meeting spaces. It’s ideal for large and small conferences alike.
Shoreditch – A favourite for startups and creatives, Shoreditch has trendy, informal locations perfect for networking events, workshops, or casual business meetups.
London Bridge – Well-connected and easy to reach from both sides of the Thames, London Bridge has many meeting spaces suited for all types of business events.
The Most Popular Conference Venue Types in London
- Theatres – Great for big events like product launches, presentations, or industry talks. With large screens, stages, and plenty of seating, everyone gets a good view.
- Seminar Rooms – Perfect for smaller meetings, workshops, or interviews. These spaces come equipped with comfortable chairs, screens, and all the essentials that will keep things running smoothly.
- Halls – Spacious and flexible, ideal for networking events or company announcements. You can customise the setup to suit your event’s needs.
- Cafes & Dining Rooms – A more relaxed setting for meetings or small conferences. With good food and a comfortable atmosphere, they encourage natural conversations.
- Conference Hotel – Ideal for multi-day conferences, corporate retreats, or events with international guests. These conference venues provide accommodation, meeting spaces, and catering services.