Function Rooms for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Function Rooms in London

Function rooms in London are versatile spaces that can be hired for a wide range of events – they're the perfect place for training days and other corporate events. They can also be used for wedding receptions and other private events, like christenings, engagement parties and baby showers. Function rooms are especially great for large parties and celebrations.

How to Decorate a Function Room for an Event in London?

• Choose a colour scheme (rented coloured glassware, china, or chair covers will really make your tables pop.)
• Order place cards or menus that tie in with your theme. In a pinch, you can even print them yourself.
• Pretty up your function venue with paper lanterns, flowers or tealight candles.
• Create an amazing photo backdrop with tissue paper, garlands or paper flowers.
• Showcase the dessert buffet (display cakes on vintage tiered stands or eye-catching plates.)
• Use chalkboard signage to direct your guests (these can be personalised by buying a second-hand frame and spray-painting it to match the rest of your décor.)
• Several larger flower arrangements are often cheaper than many smaller centrepieces.

Top 10 Must-Ask Questions When Hiring a Function Room

To ensure you choose a venue that aligns with your event's requirements, here are the top 10 must-ask questions to ensure your venue hire goes smoothly.

• What is the Capacity of the Venue?

Ask about the maximum number of guests the room can accommodate for different setups (banquet, theatre, boardroom, etc.). If you're hosting a grand wedding at a banquet hall near the banks of the River Thames or a corporate seminar in a conference centre overlooking the London Eye, ensuring the space fits your guest list comfortably is key.

• What is the Location and Access to Public Transport Like?

Ask about its proximity to major transport links like London Underground stations, bus routes, and airports so they are easy for your guests to get to.

• What Facilities and Amenities are Available?

Ask about the specifics: Wi-Fi speed, staging, lighting, sound systems, and on-site catering options. For instance, facilities like breakout rooms and tech support in a venue near Canary Wharf could be advantageous for organising a conference.

• Is There On-Site Catering, or Can We Hire Our Own Suppliers?

Cuisine plays a pivotal role in every event experience, so ask what option the venue offers. Some venues offer in-house catering with bespoke menus, while others might allow you to bring in external caterers.

• What is the Cost, and What Does it Include?

Clarify the pricing structure. Is it a flat rate, per person, or minimum spend? Understand what's included in the cost, such as furniture, staffing, and cleanup. Venues in upscale areas like Kensington and Chelsea might offer comprehensive packages, while others may have à la carte pricing that allows for more customisation.

• Are There Any Restrictions on Decor or Entertainment?

Each venue has its own set of rules regarding décor alterations and entertainment types. If you're planning a themed event or need specific entertainment like live bands or DJs, ensure this aligns with the venue's policies.

• What is the Cancellation Policy?

Ask about the notice period, refund structure, and any potential penalties. For more details, see Tagvenue’s guide on cancelling venue bookings.

• Is There Dedicated Event Support?

Ask if the venue provides a dedicated event manager to assist in the planning process and on the event day. This can be a game-changer for complex events like technology expos or fashion shows.

• What Parking or Transportation Options are Available for Guests?

 Ask about parking facilities or valet services for venues that are not near public transport.

• How Flexible is the Venue with Layout and Timing?

Flexibility can be critical, especially for multi-faceted events like conferences with plenary sessions and workshops or weddings with ceremonies and receptions. Discuss the possibilities of changing room layouts or extending event hours.

Entertainment Ideas for Your London Event

Historical Venues

Imagine a period-themed performance in a majestic hall or a castle-like century-old building, with actors and musicians dressed in historical costumes performing pieces that transport your guests back in time. 

Modern Spaces

If you are hosting your event in a contemporary venue, a sleek function room overlooking the Thames or a rooftop space, a digital interactive art installation where guests can engage with touch screens to create their own art inspired by the city's skyline is perfect. Alternatively, a live DJ set with visual projections that mirror London's dynamic energy could keep the vibe upbeat and cosmopolitan.

Garden Venues

These settings are perfect for more relaxed daytime events or summer evening receptions. You can get live acoustic bands playing background music or a "garden cinema" experience where guests can watch classic British films under the stars with wireless headphones and cosy blankets.

River Thames Venues

Function rooms and event spaces along the River Thames are perfect for both formal and informal gatherings. You can have a private boat tour along the Thames as part of the event or as an optional pre-event activity.

Artistic and Cultural Spaces

The entertainment can be as enriching as the surroundings for events held in galleries, theatres, or cultural institutions. Get live art demonstrations or workshops where guests can create their own artwork inspired by the venue's current exhibits. 

FAQs about Function Rooms in London

How far ahead should I hire a function venue in London?

If you are organising a larger or corporate event, it would be best to start planning 3 to 5 months ahead of the date. Especially if your event is happening in a busy season, around summer or the Christmas holiday, it might be wise to have several dates in mind when looking for function rooms in London. If you are organising a small event or private celebration, starting the process around 3 months before the date should give you enough time to hash out all the details.

What areas of London are the best for hiring a function venue?

Soho and Covent Garden are brilliant if you want that central buzz, and they are ideal for after-work party or festive parties. Over in Shoreditch and Hoxton are loads of cool, laid-back spots for networking or more creative get-togethers. The City of London has some impressive venues, if you need a smart setting for corporate events. South Bank and Canary Wharf have stunning riverside spaces for bigger parties with a view.

Can I hire a function room in London on a budget?

Certainly! There are a few different ways to get a nice but affordable function room. For example, hotel venues further away from the city centre usually offer their spaces cheaper, without sacrificing quality. If you plan to have catering for your event, maybe you should consider minimum spend venues. As long as you spend enough on food and drinks, you get the space for free! Hiring at off-peak time frames (weekday mornings or early afternoons) will also be helpful.

How much do function rooms in London cost?

Hire fees for these event spaces in London depend mainly on the size and location of the venue. Expect to pay anything from £25 to £500 per hour on a dry hire model. If you want to opt for venues with minimum spend option, offers start at around £500 per session. (All data from Tagvenue.)