Small Party Venues for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Small Party Venues in London

Special events you can host in a small party venue

London is second to none regarding party life in Britain. It's home to some of the country's most iconic nightclubs, like the Ministry of Sound in Southwark. But what if all you want is to chill out with your friends in a private, enclosed space? Maybe you're trying to organise a small birthday for a friend? Small venues for hire in London are popular for many different events and celebrations. Have a look at our shortlist of special occasions that often require a small party space:

• Baby showers - London offers many small event venues for baby showers. Perhaps you're planning a petite afternoon tea in a shabby chic tea room? Or maybe you're after a small private dining room in a restaurant of your choice? Let us know your thoughts, and we'll give you our best recommendations!
• Weddings - Intimate weddings are a hot trend. Finding the perfect small wedding venue for hire in London is becoming easier and cheaper. What's more, you can get creative – how about hosting your special day in a pub? Now that's truly a London-style wedding!
• Birthdays - Get together with your closest buddies and have a brilliant birthday bash! The capital's full of fun private party venues for small birthday parties and laid-back gatherings, from teeny-tiny bars in Shoreditch, Soho, and Islington to cute dry-hire spaces all over the capital. If you're planning a small kids' party, we also have plenty of options.

Another benefit of small venues for hire in London is that they're very easy to find in all parts of the city. You don't even need anything special. All sorts of quaint event spaces will gladly host your party. Here are some of our favourite examples of spaces suitable for small venues for parties:

• Minimum spend venues - It's basically free venue hire! You don't have to spend a single penny on hiring the space. Instead, you just pay a minimum amount for food and drinks. These types of minimum-spend party venues include pubs, bars and restaurants.
• Private dining rooms – Because every occasion is good for a delectable dining experience! Whether you're keen on French haute cuisine or delicious pub grub, you can find an elegant private party venue that meets your needs.
• Community centres – This cheap party venue hire option is available in most London neighbourhoods. Community halls are versatile and more affordable than banqueting suites, making them an ideal choice if you plan a small event on a tight budget. Other wallet-friendly event venue options include church halls and party rooms.
• Kids' party places – Let the magic happen! We know the best kids' birthday party places, including the city's hidden gems. How about a mini party bus filled with video game consoles or a room in a party centre? With Tagvenue, you can find the perfect party venue for your kids in London in a snap.

Guide to planning a small party in London

Depending on the small event you want to organise (birthday, family gathering, or dance party), you may take a slightly different approach. But if you follow this guide, you should be able to hire a small venue and prepare everything you need in advance so that your party day will be smooth and stress-free.

The first thing you must do is contact the venue of your choice. You can even enquire about multiple private rooms or small venues for hire in London so that you won't have to worry about them being unavailable when you want. Include all the details, such as how many people you want to host, if you want to bring food or alcohol, or if you want to set up some games and decor. The venue manager will be able to clarify what you can do with the party venue and help you if you have any questions.

Then, figure out the invitations. Setting up a Facebook event or group is one of the easiest ways to provide your guests with the necessary information and give them a way to RSVP. This step is crucial, especially when booking cosy event spaces in London, where the venue's capacity might be limited. For a more traditional approach, you can buy invitation cards and share them with your friends or family.

What's a party without fun icebreakers and activities? To make your party fun and memorable, you should incorporate games into the agenda. Activities can particularly shine in small corporate events or birthday parties where a more personal touch can be added due to the venue size. Remember to match the games to how well the guests know each other. Start with icebreaker games if you're dealing with a newly formed team at the office, and go with something more interesting as the night progresses.

Unless the venue has live music or a DJ, you should get some music going. Make a playlist on a streaming app like Spotify or Apple Music and let everyone add something they like to the mix. If you're going for a themed party, you can also find a pre-made playlist with top hits from a particular era or style.

Ask the venue about their options if you want to have food and drinks. From small venues for baby showers to other event-specific places, most small venues for hire in London can provide catering for your event, but it will often cost extra. Ask them if you can bring your own dishes into the venue to cut costs, or check this on their venue page.

DIY or Catered? The Pros & Cons of Each 

Hosting a party in London is exciting, but deciding on food preparation can be overwhelming. Should you channel your inner Gordon Ramsay, craft a home-cooked feast, or hand the delicious deeds to seasoned catering professionals? Both options would surely tantalise everyone's taste buds, but the ideal choice hinges on your preferences, resources, and desired party atmosphere. So, buckle up - we will delve into the pros and cons of each approach!

The DIY Charm:

• Budget Bliss: Cooking yourself can be significantly cheaper, especially for small parties with less than 20 guests. Imagine hosting a cosy brunch for ten. Shopping at local markets and whipping up frittatas with seasonal vegetables and homemade scones can be more cost-effective than a catered brunch spread.
• Personal Touch: Dig deep and draw upon your culinary creativity! Bake grandma's famous cookies, experiment with new recipes, or create custom cocktails that reflect your taste. Plus, when you cook yourself, you have complete control over the menu and can tailor it to suit any dietary restrictions or guest preferences.
• Collaborative Fun: Get friends and family involved! Turn food prep into a bonding activity, sharing kitchen laughs and creating cherished memories. London boasts many cosy party venues with kitchens, such as The Bureau Studio near Old Street Station or Food at 52 in Clerkenwell. By hiring one of these spaces, you can have a fun cooking party as well!
• Flexibility: Craving late-night pizza or early-morning pancakes? No problem! When you cook yourself, you can satisfy your cravings at any time. DIY allows for last-minute adjustments to the menu or guest count without relying on caterer restrictions.

But Beware the Kitchen Dragons:

• Time Commitment: From planning menus to shopping, prepping, cooking, and cleaning, DIY requires significant time investment. Consider your schedule and energy levels before diving in.
• Stress Factor: Multitasking in the kitchen while hosting a party can be overwhelming. So, planning ahead and asking for help from your friends or family is crucial.
• Hidden Costs: While cooking yourself can be cost-effective to avoid catering fees, there are hidden costs to consider. These may include purchasing specialised ingredients, kitchen equipment, and additional cleaning supplies. Budgeting accordingly and investing in these expenses before deciding to go the DIY route is important.
• Skill Level: Be honest about your culinary expertise! Attempting ambitious dishes beyond your comfort zone could lead to disastrous (and inedible) results.

Convenience of Catering:

• Stress-Free Hosting: One of the significant advantages of catering is its convenience in terms of stress-free hosting! When you hire a caterer, they take care of all the food preparation, serving, and cleanup, leaving you free to mingle and socialise.
• Professional Presentation: Caterers are well experienced in creating visually appealing and appetising dishes, which can elevate your guests' overall dining experience. They often provide stylish serving ware and table decorations that add elegance to your event.
• Time Saver: Reclaim your precious time! Ditch the grocery aisles and frantic cooking sessions, and dedicate your energy to creating a memorable party atmosphere.
• Variety & Quality: Caterers offer a broader range of cuisines and dishes than you might manage at home. Moreover, they source high-quality ingredients and prioritise food safety, guaranteeing your guests enjoy delicious and safe meals.

Remember About the Price Tag:

• Budget Buster: Catering can be significantly more expensive than DIY, especially for parties with 30-50 guests. Carefully compare packages and hidden fees to find an option that suits your budget.
• Loss of Control: Menu customisation might be limited with caterers. Discuss options upfront to ensure the food aligns with your vision and dietary needs.
• Flexibility: Last-minute changes or additions can be challenging and incur extra costs with catering services. Ensure clear communication and flexibility within your chosen package.

So, Which Way to Go?

Ultimately, the decision depends on your priorities! If budget and personal touch are key, DIY might be your winner. However, if time, stress-free hosting, and professional presentation are crucial, consider looking for catering services.

A Bit of Both

Remember the hybrid option! Prepare signature dishes yourself while outsourcing appetisers, desserts, or specific dietary needs to a caterer. This option blends the best of both worlds, offering personalisation and convenience within your budget.

Now, armed with this knowledge, go forth and conquer your next party in one of the small venues for hire in London! Whether you whip up a culinary masterpiece yourself or entrust the feast to professionals, remember to focus on creating a joyful and memorable gathering for all!

Small Party Venues with a Stunning View of London

Dreaming of an unforgettable gathering with friends and family but yearning for something extraordinary? Look no further than London's cosy rooftop party venues! Beyond dazzling cityscapes and panoramic vistas, these unique spaces offer exceptional settings for your next party. Imagine saying "cheers" overlooking the iconic Tower Bridge, clinking glasses with a backdrop of the Palace of Westminster, or celebrating under the twinkling lights of the West End. If this is what you envision for your gathering, let's explore some of the top-rated spots on our platform!

The Goldsmiths' Centre

Imagine your guests gasping in awe as they step onto the rooftop terrace of a spacious event room in Farringdon, a historic area with mediaeval charm. Greeted by uninterrupted panoramas of London's skyline, your guests will be transported to a world of elegance and sophistication.

Party Ideas:

• Panoramic Picnic Chic: Spread a stylish blanket on its spacious wood deck, lay down comfy cushions, and pack a gourmet picnic basket filled with local delicacies. Enjoy alfresco dining with a view like no other.
• Summer Cinema Under the Stars: Utilise an on-site projector and screen for an open-air movie night beneath the twinkling stars. Popcorn, cosy blankets, and the iconic cityscape create a magical experience.

Omeara

There are not many small venues for hire in London like this one! Perched on top of a unique party spot near Borough Station, this terrace offers breathtaking views of London's vibrant present and captivating past. From the Southwark Cathedral to The Shard, London's rich cityscape unfolds before you, offering a gorgeous setting for any occasion.

Party Ideas:

• Vintage Extravaganza: Embrace the venue's aesthetic with a vintage-themed party inspired by undiscovered places in Central America. Guests can dress up in retro attire and enjoy classic cocktails while dancing to old-school tunes.
• Sunset Soirée with Live Music: Hire a live music band to set the mood for a romantic sunset soirée. Enjoy live music performances on the rooftop as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the city.

The Residence at Holmes Hotel London

Escape the city's hustle and bustle and ascend to the tranquil rooftop haven of Holmes Hotel near Baker Street Station. Surrounded by lush greenery and boasting charming views of beautiful houses and quaint streets, this space offers a serene and secluded setting. Breathe in the fresh air, soak up the sunshine, and let the stunning views work their magic.

Party Ideas:

• Afternoon Tea with a View: Host a sophisticated afternoon tea party with delicate finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries. Guests can sip tea while enjoying the stunning views and relaxed ambience.
• Stargazing Party: After sunset, spread out blankets and let the city lights fade into the background as you gaze at the starry sky above. Enjoy warm drinks, snacks, and stimulating conversation under the stars.

So, there you have it – a glimpse into the world of rooftop venues in London. At Tagvenue, with so many small venues in London to hire from, you're sure to find the ideal event space with a great view. Escape the ordinary and elevate your next celebration to new heights – literally!

FAQs about Small Party Venues in London

Can I hire an event space in London for a party that fits less than 50?

Of course! Be sure to check out cafes, studios and function rooms for some great small-sized options. For a small party venue in Central London, expect to pay an average price of £300-£500 per session. (Based on Tagvenue data.)

Can I hire a booth for my small party in London?

Yes! Many venues will offer you the chance to hire a booth for your group. This is a great option for small parties and doesn’t come at a high cost. You can often find booths for hire at pubs, nightclubs and bars.

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

Hiring a small event space can start at around £10 to £40 per person. The minimum spend for a smaller-sized venue will be found starting around £50 to £1200 per session. The hire fee per session ranges from £50 to £1200. (All data from Tagvenue.)

Can I hire a small party venue in East London for free?

You certainly can hire a small event space for free if you check out the minimum spend options. Quite popular at bars and pubs, this type of price model requires you to spend a pre-agreed amount on food and drink. Make sure your guests know the drill.