Unusual Venues for Hire in London

Your Guide to Hiring Unusual Venues in London

How unusual do you want your event to be? At Tagvenue we have ballrooms, gardens, boats, special stables and more funky venues. The spaces are able to host any type of gathering - from small to large. Just take a look, pick one, book it and enjoy the event.

When it comes to unusual venues in London, our top picks include:

• Museum venues – The capital has a thriving museum scene that reflects the country’s rich cultural history. Never-before-seen objects from a niche museum will guarantee to get your guests talking, or maybe you’d prefer a historic space that’ll strike just the right note?
• Hotel venues – London is home to some of the best hotels in the world, many of which are tourist attractions in their own right. From iconic hotels like Claridge’s and The Ritz Hotel, to beautiful boutique hotels and cutting-edge concept hotel venues, you’re spoilt for choice.
• Wet hire venues – Wet hire venues take care not only of the space but also of other aspects of the event – such as the staff, the audio-visual equipment, the catering and the decorations. Choosing a wet hire venue makes the whole event planning process much more efficient and less stressful for you.
• Dry hire venues - Dry hire venues are simply just the space for your event, providing a great blank canvas for your unique party. These are great for hiring a room on more of a budget and also if you have preferred caterers and decorators for your party. London has an abundance of theatres, cinemas, art galleries, industrial and underground spaces. Why not transform these into your dream party venue? 
• Venues with a view – We all know how beautiful London is, especially from above. An event with a view is definitely going to be a crowd-pleaser. If you choose this option, make sure the weather is appropriate for being outside on a terrace or on a boat. You can also pick a venue that is heated. After all, you don’t want your guests getting cold.
• Historical – Picking a historical venue for your party kills two birds with one stone. You will not only provide an unforgettable night to your guests but also support London's historical heritage. You'll find the biggest concentration of grade I and grade II listed buildings in Westminster, Mayfair and Covent Garden.

Hiring an unusual venue is a sure way to make your night unforgettable. When looking for the perfect quirky venue for your event, here are a few things to consider:

Type of Event – The desired vibe for your evening is a key thing to consider when hiring a venue. Studios and galleries are great places to host events like weddings, birthdays, and corporate events alike. These spaces offer plenty of space to spread out for activities like dancing and socialising and are a great option for any event. If you’re curious about this type of venue, check out Aures London. Having an event in a space such as a museum or church is a great way to have a party with a classy and elegant atmosphere which is also great for weddings.

Theme - Want to feel like you've been transported back to the roaring twenties or the disco-loving seventies? No need to look for a time machine, because there are many venues styled in a theme of another decade. Spice up your party by introducing a dress code and voilà, you've travelled back in time! The first step is understanding the general vibe you are going for with your party. If you are hosting a Christmas or winter-themed party, then go for a Santa’s workshop theme or a venue with outside tents that look like igloos. If you are hosting a Monte Carlo party, then you should try and find a venue that looks like it was straight out of Casino Royale (and make sure everyone dresses the part too!).

Size of the Space – This largely depends on the number of people you have. Many of the quirky rooms available are designed around smaller to medium-sized parties. The kind of hospitality and entertainment you have in mind for your event will play a role as if you have a band or a planned dinner service, you will need more space. The size of the space will also be a determining factor for the price of the event, as larger spaces will often cost more per session.

Food & Drink – Having food and beverages at your party is a must. Not all parties have to have an elegant sit-down dinner as often a buffet or shared plates will suffice for snacking throughout the evening. Having a bar available is always welcome, and there are many types of bar packages to choose from when planning the party. Cash bars are the most affordable option on the side of the party planner, as the guests cover the cost of alcohol and they will pay for only what they use. Open bars, however, are great options when planning a party. Here you can choose between a beer and wine option and also have a full bar service with liquor and cocktails. This decision will come down to the type of event that you are holding. For instance, at weddings, it is great to have an open bar for the evening, but at a corporate event or less formal gathering, a cash bar will often do the trick.

Entertainment – Entertainment is always great to have but not always necessary. DJs can serve a double function as both music curators and also MCs for the event. Many venues will have preferred contractors for entertainment services, but more often than not, you will have free rein over who you choose to hire to provide entertainment and MCing.

Venues are our business so we’ve already done most of the work for you, just click and see for yourself what we have. I think we will surprise you and it’s easy to book, just a few clicks and you will be talking with one of the unique venue managers and booking the perfect room for your event right here in London. From the small to the large we make sure the details are right. Our focus is on you the customer, so making sure you have all the information you need is key. We’ve already done the hard work, you can sit back put the kettle on and let your imagination go wild, just a few clicks and you’re away.

Artistic Venues: Where Creativity Meets Celebration

London holds a treasure trove of unusual event spaces ready to transform your gathering into a masterpiece of memories. These special venues, ranging from contemporary art galleries to historic studios, offer a special setting that infuses your celebration with creativity and flair. Here’s how to find and make the most of London’s artistic venues for an event that stands out from the crowd.

Discovering the Perfect Canvas

• Explore the Spectrum: London's artistic venues span a wide range of styles and atmospheres. From avant-garde galleries in Shoreditch to the timeless elegance of studios in Kensington, the city caters to every artistic taste. Begin your venue search with an open mind, and reflect on how the aura of each space aligns with the theme and tone of your event.
• Historical Charm Meets Modern Art: Some of London’s most sought-after venues are those that offer historical architecture mixed with contemporary art. These locations offer a dialogue between the past and present, providing a rich, layered experience for your guests. Look for venues that showcase emerging artists alongside classical features for a truly dynamic setting.

Tailoring Your Artistic Venue

• Custom Exhibitions: Collaborate with the venue to curate an art exhibition that complements your event's theme. This could range from abstract paintings that echo the emotions of your celebration to sculptures that challenge and engage. Personalising the space with art that resonates with your story adds depth and personal touch to the occasion.
• Interactive Art Experiences: Elevate your event by incorporating interactive art installations. Invite a local artist to create live art, offer a workshop where guests can craft their own souvenirs, or set up digital installations that react to movement or sound. These experiences not only entertain but also immerse your guests in the creative process.

Logistics and Layout

• Versatile Spaces: The beauty of artistic venues lies in their versatility. Many art spaces offer adjustable lighting, movable exhibits, and flexible layouts to accommodate everything from personal gatherings to grand celebrations. Ensure the venue can adapt to your specific needs, whether it’s setting up a performance stage, arranging seating, or facilitating catering services.
• Accessibility and Amenities: While the focus may be on the art, don’t overlook practical considerations. Ensure the venue is accessible to all guests, including those with mobility issues. Check for available amenities like sound systems, projectors, or kitchen facilities, which are essential for a seamless event.

Making Memories in Artistic Venues

• Capturing the Moment: Artistic venues provide great opportunities for photography and videography. Use the art as a background for photoshoots or incorporate the venue’s design elements into your event's visual theme. Encourage guests to share their photos on social media with a custom hashtag to capture the collective experience.
• Leave a Lasting Impression: The success of an event in an artistic venue isn’t just in the moment but in the memories it creates. Offer guests parting gifts inspired by the art or the venue itself, such as prints, artist-designed keepsakes, or a catalogue of the exhibited works. This not only commemorates the occasion but also supports the local art community.

Outdoor Unusual Venues: Exploring London's Hidden Gems

The sprawling urban landscape of London harbours outdoor spaces that offer a great twist to conventional event hosting. These hidden gems provide an exceptional setting for events seeking a special outdoor feeling, taking advantage of the city's allure of nature. Discover how to unlock these outdoor unusual venues in London for an event that stands out with its distinctive charm.

Unveiling London's Secret Gardens and Courtyards

• Secret Gardens Tucked Away: In London’s bustling streets you will find private gardens, remnants of the city's past or innovative modern green spaces designed for tranquillity and escape. Hosting an event in one of these secluded gardens offers guests a rare glimpse into London's quieter, greener side, perfect for smaller gatherings, weddings, or corporate retreats seeking a serene atmosphere.
• Historical Courtyards with Modern Twists: Many of London's historical buildings and institutions feature courtyards that have been modernised to host events. These spaces often retain their original architecture, providing a striking contrast against contemporary event setups. Think of courtyards within ancient castles, refurbished warehouses, or behind the façades of classical London townhouses for an event that marries history with modernity.

Maximising London's Open-Air Unusual Venues

• Transformative Decor and Theming: The natural beauty of outdoor unique venues in London provides a versatile canvas for event theming. Whether opting for minimalistic elegance to complement a garden's floral abundance or incorporating colourful decor to contrast a historic courtyard's stone walls, the key is to enhance rather than overshadow the venue's charm.
• Embracing the British Weather: Planning an outdoor event in London requires a nod to the city’s unpredictable weather. Innovative solutions such as transparent marquees allow for rain-proofing without losing the outdoor feel. Consider offering branded umbrellas or pashminas as thoughtful touches that keep guests comfortable, no matter the weather.

Discovering London's Outdoor Unusual Venues

• Rooftop Terraces with City Skylines: Beyond London's historical and green spaces lie rooftop terraces that offer panoramic views of the city skyline. Just imagine an event in a beautiful venue with a view of the London Eye or the London Bridge! These venues range from high-end restaurant rooftops to more laid-back, garden-style settings atop cultural institutions, providing a variety of atmospheres suitable for any event.
• Floating Venues on the Thames: For a truly outstanding outdoor experience, consider hosting your event at one of London’s floating venues. From great boats anchored along the Thames to modern barges designed for events, these floating venues offer guests an unforgettable perspective of London from the water.

Crafting an Unforgettable Outdoor Event

• Local Flavours and Sustainable Catering: Enhance your outdoor event by partnering with local caterers that specialise in British cuisine or offer sustainable, farm-to-table options. Food trucks or pop-up kitchens can add an element of surprise, seamlessly blending into the outdoor setting while offering guests a taste of London's diverse culinary scene.

Entertainment Al Fresco: Leverage the open space of your outdoor venue with live entertainment that resonates with the setting. Acoustic performances, open-air theatre productions, or interactive art installations not only entertain but also encourage guests to engage with the venue in memorable ways.

FAQs about Unusual Venues in London

What are the perks of hiring an unusual venue in London?

A unique or quirky venue will offer your event a huge dose of character, and a huge shot of fun. Whether you hire a railway arch or a bedoiun tent in the heart of London, a cool and unusual venue will get your party off on the right foot. Many unique party venues are playful takes on your run-of-the-mill bar, pub, or club. They offer a vibrant atmosphere for all of your guests to enjoy and often serve plenty of fun cocktails and menu items. And don’t forget all of the photo opportunities a unique venue offers! These venues are a sure way to take your event from average to unforgettable.

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

When hiring an unusual venue in London, you will find that prices can vary substantially depending on the venue type but you can be sure that you will definitely get what you pay for. The easiest way to book an unusual venue is to choose a minimum spend venue and expect prices in the range of £100 to £1000. For a flat hire fee, most venues will charge between £50 to £1500 per session. (All data from Tagvenue.com)

What kind of unusual venues can I find in London?

London has so many unusual venues you will be spoilt for choice. Look to certain unusual venues for a unique event space, including museums, railway arches, boats, buses or guildhalls.

• The Lower Deck – Tamesis Dock – Hire a beautiful converted 1930's Dutch barge for your next event.
• Garden Tiki Huts at Hope and Anchor – Book a private Tiki Hut in the garden of this Hoxton pub.
• Vauxhall Arches – Book one of this venue’s 9 separate event spaces tucked away in vintage railway arches.

What are ways to make hiring a venue more affordable?

Ways you can reduce costs are by inquiring about dry hire, which is when you just rent the space. You can also choose a minimum spend option, where your party will be required to spend a certain amount of money on food and beverage. Inquiring about outside catering and a BYOB option are also alternatives to reducing overall costs.

Where in London can I hire an unusual venue?

Here are some of our favourite quirky locations you should consider while looking for your favourite venue:

• City of London – The financial district is home to many interesting and unusual venues. Many venues have their own themes, such as outer space or the Victorian era, and alluring underground spaces.
• Shoreditch – It’s full of hip places with a quirky vibe for you to choose from. There are cool cocktail bars and reimagined industrial spaces on every corner!
• Battersea – This area is also known for its industrial venues; including its iconic Battersea Power Station. It’s the perfect destination for an unusual party or a live music event. Just decorate with your preferred theme and you're ready to go!

What are some of the best unusual event venues in London?

Here are some of the best unusual spaces that London has to offer:

The Bedouin Tent & Garden at St Ethelburga's Centre - For a unique and magical wedding venue, this 16-sided tent, crafted in Saudi Arabia and adorned with atmospheric lighting and cushioned seating, can host up to 30 guests. The adjoining garden courtyard provides a beautiful setting for outdoor mingling and photos.

Blame Gloria – If flowers are your thing, then look no further. Blame Gloria is a cool underground space with interesting wall decorations and plenty of room to dance the night away.

Sugar Cane – Few things are more fun than taking a trip down to the islands, and Sugar Cane can help get you there. This is a Polynesian themed bar and has all of the fun cocktails to match the island vibe. This is a great spot for birthday parties!