Exhibition Venues for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Exhibition Venues in London

Top Tips for Planning an Exhibition in London:

• Establish a budget early.

• Create a detailed planning schedule.

• Decide how to market and promote your event.

• Book an expo venue with a central location (good public transport links and on-site parking are always key considerations).

• Check your venue’s overtime fees.

• Determine your catering requirements (and find out whether your venue has an alcohol licence or can cater to special dietary requirements).

Exhibition centres are multi-purpose spaces and can be modified according to your needs. Such venues can accommodate a whole lot of different events, from weddings and art fairs to fashion parades and dog shows! Here are some great exhibition centres in London:

• Alexandra Palace. They call themselves iconic for a reason. Views of London’s stunning skyline, spacious rooms, many acres of outdoor space and, to top it all off, stylish Victorian architecture. Ally Pally is the ultimate north London convention centre for large live music events as well as for meetings.

• Old Billingsgate. This Grade II listed venue also boasts exceptional views, in this case, of the Thames and Tower Bridge. Its tall arches and blank canvas spaces have great potential for product launches and fashion shows.

• America Square. This is a contemporary exhibition centre located in the City of London. It has a historical touch, as an original Roman wall runs through it! This unique feature will add a special feel to your corporate event or conference.

• Congress Centre. If you’re looking for a high-tech convention hall, look no further. Congress Hall features sophisticated sound and visual systems and is located in the heart of London’s West End. It’s a truly impressive exhibition hall with an excellent central location.

Here at Tagvenue, we know that getting noticed in the capital isn’t always easy. If you’re planning to put on a show of your own, our round-up of the city’s best expo centres is sure to come in handy. Whether you’re after a modern exhibition venue that can accommodate a big crowd, a blank canvas gallery you can stamp your own style on or a pop-up exhibition space for a trade show, game convention or degree show, Tagvenue can point you to the right direction.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Securing Your Ideal Exhibition Venue in London

Securing a top-rated exhibition venue in London is a critical step in the planning process that can significantly influence the success of your event. This guide will walk you through a straightforward, step-by-step process to ensure you find and book an ideal location for your exhibition or event.

Step 1: Define Your Exhibition's Needs

Before searching for a venue, it's essential to outline the specific requirements of your exhibition. Consider the nature of your event—is it a trade show, art display, product launch, or educational exhibition? The type of event will dictate the size, location, amenities, and atmosphere you need. Assess the expected number of attendees, required exhibit space, necessary technical equipment (like lighting and sound systems), and any additional facilities such as catering areas or breakout rooms.

Step 2: Explore London's Rich Venue Tapestry

London's landscape is filled with venues suitable for exhibitions of all types. From the grandeur of historic buildings and museums to the advanced design of modern spaces, there's something for every taste and requirement. Also, consider unconventional spaces like converted warehouses, lofts, or outdoor areas that can offer a unique backdrop to your event.

Step 3: Use Online Resources and Networks

Leverage the power of online venue finders, exhibition directories, and professional networks to broaden your search. Platforms like Tagvenue offer comprehensive listings of exhibition venues across London, complete with detailed descriptions, capacity information, and contact details. Join forums and social media groups focused on event planning in London to get recommendations and insider tips from seasoned professionals.

Step 4: Conduct Site Visits

Once you've shortlisted potential venues, visit each site in person. This step is crucial for assessing the space's suitability for your event. Evaluate the layout, check the condition and availability of necessary equipment, confirm the ease of access for attendees, and discuss your specific needs with the venue's management. Take note of the ambience and aesthetic appeal of the location, ensuring it aligns with the theme and purpose of your exhibition.

Step 5: Compare Costs and Services

After visiting the venues, compare the rental costs, available dates, and the range of services each location offers. Consider the value of included amenities, such as AV equipment, furniture, and Wi-Fi, against your event's requirements and budget. Feel free to negotiate terms or ask for customised packages to better suit your needs.

Step 6: Secure Your Venue

With all the information you have, decide and book your chosen exhibition venue. Ensure you understand the contract terms, cancellation policies, and any deposit requirements. Confirm your event's date, time, and specific details with the venue's management, and keep in touch as your exhibition approaches to finalise any last-minute arrangements.

Step 7: Announce Your Event

With your venue secured, it's time to promote your exhibition. Use various marketing channels, such as social media, email newsletters, and industry publications, to generate buzz and attract attendees. Highlight the unique aspects of your event and the distinctive features of your London venue to entice a wider audience.

By following these detailed steps, you'll not only find an exhibition venue in London that meets your specific needs but also lay the foundation for a successful and memorable event.

Choosing the Right Exhibition Venue in London

London's rich slection of venues means there's a perfect match for every event, from intimate art showcases to grand-scale trade exhibitions. It's crucial to pick a spot that not only fits your logistical needs but also complements the theme and vibe of your exhibition.

Versatile Spaces for Varied Events:

• The Brewery: Located in Finsbury, this venue is a premier choice for a wide range of events. It offers flexible spaces for grand and cosy exhibitions. Its blend of historical charm and cutting-edge facilities provides a unique setting that can elevate any event.
• The HAC (The Honourable Artillery Company): Surrounded by stunning gardens and historic architecture, The HAC offers a tranquil yet central location. It's perfect for those looking to merge the grandeur of London's past with the vibrancy of its present in their exhibition.

Boutique Venues for Art and Design Shows:

• Noho Studios: Located in the West End, Noho Studios is a blank canvas space, ideal for creative minds looking to design their exhibition layout from scratch. Its street-level access and white-walled gallery space make it a favourite for art and design showcases.
• The Tab Centre: This dynamic venue is located in Shoreditch. The grand hall is decorated with elegant pilasters and a wrought-iron balustraded gallery. The walls are painted ivory, adding to the hall's beauty. It is an excellent choice for exhibitions seeking a modern, chic environment that encourages creativity and innovation.

Unique Locations for Memorable Experiences:

• Magazine London: A purpose-built space near the iconic Greenwich Peninsula, Magazine London is a minimalist, modern venue with vast open spaces and spectacular views of Canary Wharf. Its scalable capacity and cutting-edge design make it a prime location for large-scale exhibitions and product launches.
• The Underglobe: Hidden beneath Shakespeare's Globe, The Underglobe is a magical venue that transports guests to another era. Its Elizabethan ambience offers an extraordinary setting for exhibitions looking to blend culture, history, and storytelling.

Crafting a Compelling Narrative for Your London Exhibition

Creating a standout exhibition in London demands an eye for design and a deep understanding of your audience and objectives. While the selection of the venue is crucial, equally important is crafting a compelling narrative and experience through the theme. 

Understanding Your Audience:

• Diverse Demographics: London's global appeal means your exhibition could attract an international crowd. Tailor your theme to engage a broad audience while ensuring it remains accessible to locals.
• Cultural Sensitivities: Be mindful of London's rich cultural mix. Your theme should embrace diversity and inclusivity, reflecting the city's multicultural spirit.

Theme Development:

• Relevance: Choose a timely and relevant theme for your target audience. Whether it's sustainability, technology, or social change, your theme should echo your visitors' current interests or concerns.
• Innovation: London thrives on innovation. Your exhibition theme should challenge conventions, offering new perspectives or solutions. This approach not only draws attention but also sparks conversation.

Engagement Strategies:

• Interactive Storytelling: Craft a narrative journey through your exhibition using your theme. Interactive elements such as augmented reality, gamification, or live performances can transform passive observation into an immersive experience.
• Social Integration: Encourage social sharing by designing Instagram-worthy installations or incorporating hashtags and live social media feeds related to your theme. This amplifies your reach and fosters a community around your exhibition.

Designing Your Exhibition Space for Maximum Impact

With a compelling narrative in place, the design of your exhibition space becomes the medium through which your story unfolds. Utilising visual design principles can elevate your exhibition, ensuring it leaves a lasting impression on every visitor.

1. Consistency in Theme and Branding:

Your design should be a visual extension of your theme, with consistent use of colours, typography, and imagery that reinforces your narrative and branding.

2. Strategic Lighting:

Lighting sets the mood and highlights key focal points. Use it to guide visitors' attention and create an atmosphere that aligns with your thematic narrative.

3. Interactive Elements:

Interactivity deepens engagement. Incorporate elements that invite participation, from digital kiosks to hands-on demonstrations, making your theme tangible and memorable.

4. Thoughtful Layout and Flow:

Design your space to facilitate a journey that aligns with your narrative. A logical, intuitive layout ensures visitors engage fully with your theme, leaving no story untold.

5. Use of Multimedia:

Complement physical displays with multimedia elements to enrich the narrative experience. Audio-visual installations, for example, can provide context, deepen understanding, and enhance the sensory appeal of your theme.

By intertwining a carefully crafted theme with an intelligently designed space, your London exhibition will capture attention and create meaningful connections with your audience. This dual focus on narrative and design ensures your exhibition stands out in a city known for its dynamic cultural landscape and innovative spirit. Whether you aim to educate, inspire, or entertain, the key is to deliver a cohesive, immersive experience that resonates with visitors long after they leave.

FAQs about Exhibition Venues in London

How much does it cost to hire an exhibition venue in London?

Exhibition venues in London can cost anywhere from £250 to £1,000+ per day. The price depends on the capacity of the venue and the service you require. Smaller exhibition venues are generally cheaper than larger ones, but you may need to hire additional staff or services like catering if the venue isn’t equipped with the type of equipment your event requires. (All data from Tagvenue.)

What kind of exhibition venues can I find in London?

London is a city that's chock-full of art, and there are plenty of venues where you can display your talent. If you're an aspiring artist, take your cue from the many famous painters and sculptors who have lived in London over the years and check out one of the galleries. If you're looking for a more intimate space to show your work, why not try out one of London’s many small art studios in London. If you're looking for something more exclusive, take a look at any of London's many halls that are available for private hire. These spaces have the capacity to host high-end art shows with state-of-the-art light and sound equipment. If you want to have full control over the space, you may opt to try dry hire venues and decide on your own set-up.

What should I look for when hiring an exhibition venue in London?

If you are planning to hire an exhibition venue in London, there are a number of things to consider. Here are some of the most important factors:

• Space. The location must have enough space for the event, including room for exhibit booths. If you are planning a large event, the venue should have enough space for vendors or sponsors to set up displays.
• Seating. The venue should have enough seats for your attendees, as well as space for a stage if you’re hosting speakers or presentations. Make sure that the speakers or presenters have a designated area to set up.
• Accessibility and parking. The venue should be accessible by public transportation, and there should be adequate parking nearby if needed.
• Food. The venue should have a catering option that can provide enough food for your event. If you need to bring in outside vendors for food, the venue should provide facilities to accommodate them.
• Technology and audio-visual equipment. The venue should have access to technology such as Wi-Fi or wired internet, computers and projectors, microphones, and screens (if needed).

What are the best neighbourhoods for affordable exhibition venues in London?

Bermondsey and Peckham in South London are known for their vibrant art scenes and reasonably priced venues. Hackney and Dalston in East London offer a mix of industrial spaces and galleries at competitive rates. Wembley, located in North West London, provides larger venues at a lower cost, benefiting from excellent transport links. These neighbourhoods offer cost-effective options for exhibitions and provide a unique, local flavour that can add an authentic touch to your event.