A Guide to London’s Most Iconic and Historic Event Venues

London is home to a number of iconic and historic venues available for hire for a wide range of events.  Here are 14 of our favourite iconic event venues:

The Royal Albert Hall:

Known for its distinctive round shape and stunning architecture, the Royal Albert Hall has been hosting events since 1871. It has seen performances by some of the world’s most famous artists and is renowned for its acoustics.

The venue hosts concerts, classical music performances, ballet, opera, and more.

The Tower of London:

Steeped in history, the Tower of London offers a unique and historic backdrop for events. The iconic White Tower, built by William the Conqueror, and the surrounding grounds can be hired for private events, receptions, and dinners.

Guests can enjoy guided tours of the Tower’s many historic attractions, including the Crown Jewels.

Shakespeare’s Globe:

Located on the South Bank of the Thames, Shakespeare’s Globe is a faithful reconstruction of the original Elizabethan playhouse where Shakespeare’s plays were first performed. The Globe offers a truly authentic experience for theatre enthusiasts and can be hired for conferences, performances and private events.

Guests can enjoy Shakespearean performances in the open-air theatre during the summer months.

The British Museum:

Home to a vast collection of art and artifacts spanning thousands of years of history, the British Museum offers a stunning backdrop for events. The museum’s Great Court, with its iconic glass roof designed by Norman Foster, is perfect for hire for receptions, dinners, and corporate events.

Guests can explore the museum’s world-renowned collections during their visit.

The Natural History Museum:

With its breathtaking architecture and fascinating exhibits, the Natural History Museum is a popular choice for events. The museum’s Hintze Hall, featuring the iconic skeleton of a blue whale, is available for receptions, dinners, and evening events.

Guests can explore the museum’s extensive collection of natural history specimens, including dinosaurs and gemstones.

The Royal Observatory, Greenwich:

Situated in Greenwich Park, the Royal Observatory offers panoramic views of London and the Thames River. The historic Flamsteed House can be rented for intimate events, while the Meridian Courtyard provides a stunning outdoor space for receptions and parties.

Guests can visit the Prime Meridian Line and explore the museum’s astronomy exhibits.

St. Paul’s Cathedral:

One of London’s most iconic landmarks, St. Paul’s Cathedral offers a majestic setting for events. The cathedral’s crypt, with its historic tombs and memorials, can be rented for receptions, dinners, and concerts.

Guests can climb to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.

The Houses of Parliament (Palace of Westminster):

Home to the iconic Big Ben clock tower, the Houses of Parliament is a symbol of British democracy and history. The venue offers various event spaces, including the historic Westminster Hall, which dates back to the 11th century and has hosted significant events throughout history.

Guests can enjoy guided tours of the Parliament buildings and learn about the UK’s political heritage.

The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A):

As the world’s leading museum of art, design, and performance, the V&A offers a range of historic event spaces. The museum’s stunning galleries and exhibition spaces can be rented for receptions, dinners, and corporate events.

Guests can explore the museum’s extensive collections, including decorative arts, fashion, and sculpture.

The Old Royal Naval College:

Located in Greenwich, the Old Royal Naval College is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich maritime history. The venue offers a range of historic event spaces, including the Painted Hall, adorned with magnificent Baroque paintings, and the Queen’s House, designed by Inigo Jones.

Guests can explore the grounds, visit the nearby Cutty Sark ship, and enjoy views of the Thames River.

The Tate Modern:

Housed in a former power station on the South Bank of the Thames, the Tate Modern is one of the world’s most renowned contemporary art museums. The museum offers unique event spaces, including the Turbine Hall, a vast industrial space perfect for large-scale events and installations.

Guests can explore the museum’s modern and contemporary art collections, featuring works by artists such as Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney.

The Royal Opera House:

Situated in Covent Garden, the Royal Opera House is one of the world’s leading opera and ballet venues. The venue’s historic auditorium, with its ornate decor and stunning chandeliers, can be rented for performances, galas, and special events.

Guests can enjoy world-class opera and ballet performances in a truly iconic setting.

The Savoy Hotel:

A symbol of luxury and elegance, the Savoy Hotel has been welcoming guests since 1889. The hotel offers a range of historic event spaces, including the iconic Thames Foyer, with its stunning glass dome and live music performances.

Guests can dine in the hotel’s renowned restaurants, enjoy cocktails in the American Bar, and experience the height of London hospitality.

The Roundhouse:

The Roundhouse, in Camden Town, stands as an iconic London venue renowned for its rich history and innovative spirit. Originally a 19th-century railway engine shed, the Roundhouse was transformed into a groundbreaking arts and performance space in the 1960s. Since then, it has hosted some of the world’s most influential artists, from music legends like Jimi Hendrix to contemporary stars such as Adele. Its distinctive circular structure and industrial heritage provide a unique backdrop for a wide range of events, including concerts, theatre productions, and cultural festivals.

Today, the Roundhouse continues to push boundaries, nurturing emerging talent and captivating audiences with its dynamic programming and electrifying atmosphere, making it a true cultural hub in the heart of London.