Corporate Event Venues for Hire in London

Corporate Event Venues Hire Guide

From high-tech conferences in a professional setting to fun corporate parties and company picnics, corporate event planning requires that you consider a lot of different factors. Be sure you don’t miss anything with these corporate venue hire tips:

How to hire the best venue for a corporate event?

Figure out your budget – Decide on your budget to see what kinds of venues you can hire and what activities you can plan for your business gathering. Does it have to be a simple and affordable corporate space or can you pick something more luxurious? Setting a budget will also allow you to see how big of an event you can organise and whether you can hire any external providers.

Pick the date early and send out invitations as soon as possible – Maximise attendance at your event by giving people plenty of advance notice. Remember to add RSVP so you know how many people to expect at your business event. By having a closed guest list ahead of time you will be able to prepare the best experience for all the attendees.

Decide which A/V and conference facilities you’ll need – Remember to provide a projector, mics and speakers, a screen, and/or a flipchart if you’re planning to make a presentation. Make sure the audiovisual system is good enough for the kind of corporate event you’re organising. Many professional meeting venues or co-working spots will have this type of equipment on-site, but if you choose a non-corporate place for your event, make sure the venue has everything you may need. If the place can’t provide the necessary amenities, bring and use your own, or hire it from an external vendor.

Choose the right venue type – Depending on the type of event you’re organising, you must choose the venue accordingly. You don’t want to end up throwing a party in a dull boardroom or presenting your company’s achievements in a noisy bar. London is full of great corporate event venues, and thanks to Tagvenue, you will find just what your company needs! 

Figure out the party entertainment – How about hiring some brilliant performers to entertain your guests at your corporate gathering? Comedians, musicians, jugglers, and dancers are some of the most popular choices. You can also look for a venue that offers karaoke or other in-house entertainment you could use for your event. Remember that even if you’re organising corporate workshops or brainstorming sessions, a short break may work miracles for your workers’ creative process.

There’s one more thing that all the best corporate events have in common, a great venue. Here’s a rundown of some of the most popular kinds of corporate venues in London:

Types of corporate event venues in London

Auditoriums – Looking for a place for your company’s AGM? This might be a perfect choice. Auditoriums are an excellent option for bigger groups and professional events involving public speaking, such as annual general meetings, as mentioned above.

Our recommendation:

Theatre at The Royal Institution - A historic venue in the heart of London that’s a great spot for large corporate events. With many other rooms available for hire, an in-house AV team and catering offers this venue is sure to meet all the needs of your event. Guest rating: 4.8/5

Rooftop terraces – Imagine throwing a corporate drinks reception with breathtaking views of London’s iconic buildings. The city’s famous skyline would make a great conversation starter for your colleagues and business partners.

Our recommendation: 

The Terrace at Doggett's Coat and Badge - Let your guests enjoy panoramic views of the City while sipping on a selection of drinks. With indoor space available as well, this venue is a great corporate event location for all types of corporate events throughout the year. Guest rating: 4.8/5 

Bars and pubs – From laid-back pubs to chic cocktail bars, London has it all. These kinds of event spaces are ideal for company Christmas parties, networking events, and corporate receptions.

Our recommendation:

The Cocktail Lounge at The Parlour - A semi-exclusive space ideal for all cocktail lovers. With a selection of drinks, it’s a great spot for after-work drinks, a networking session or just a team outing. Guest rating: 5.0/5

Karaoke – Looking for creative ideas for corporate activities? Karaoke is the perfect choice for a fun team activity that encourages team-building and sparks creativity. Divide your group into opposing teams or organise a talent show to choose your company’s rock star.

Our recommendation:

Karaoke Room at The Chelsea Pensioner - Offering a private bar, in-house catering, and over 80,000 songs on the karaoke machine, this venue will provide all-night fun for your guests. Ideal for a team-building outing as well as after parties. Guest rating: 4.9/5

Lounges - Usually spacious, but with seating areas and a bar, lounges are great corporate event venues for large groups. Offering plenty of space for circulating, a lounge can be a perfect choice for a networking event or a product launch.

Our recommendation:

Cafe Lounge at Uncommon Borough -  With modern design and other meeting spaces available for hire, this venue will make your large corporate event worry-free. You can choose in-house catering or an external one to meet all your guests’ needs. Guest rating: 4.8/5

Finding A Budget-Friendly Corporate Event Spot

Hosting a corporate event in London doesn't have to break the bank. In this guide, we'll help you discover inexpensive corporate event locations in the city and provide tips on negotiating prices to get the best value for your budget. Let's dive in and explore how you can make the most of your event budget without compromising on quality.

• Define Your Budget - Before you start searching for a venue, it's essential to establish a clear budget for your corporate event. Knowing your financial limits will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending. Consider all the costs involved, such as venue hire, catering, A/V equipment, and decorations. Having a well-defined budget will also make negotiations more straightforward.
• Be Flexible with Dates and Times - Flexibility can be your best friend when searching for budget-friendly venues. Peak seasons and weekends tend to come with higher price tags. If your event schedule allows, consider booking on weekdays or during off-peak months like November to February. You're likely to find better deals and more availability during these times.
• Explore Different London Areas - London offers a wide range of neighbourhoods, each with its unique vibe and price range. While Central London is convenient, other areas like East London or South London can offer more budget-friendly options. Explore venues in various neighbourhoods to find one that suits your needs without straining your budget.
• Consider Non-Traditional Spaces - Think outside the box when it comes to venue choices. London is home to numerous non-traditional event spaces that can be both unusual and cost-effective. Consider hosting your corporate event in art galleries, community centres, or even rooftop spaces. These venues can provide a distinctive atmosphere at a lower cost.
• Negotiate Prices - Don't hesitate to negotiate with venue owners or event managers. Many venues are open to price negotiations, especially if you're booking well in advance or during their off-peak times. Be prepared to discuss your requirements, the number of attendees, and any additional services you need. Negotiating can help you secure a more budget-friendly rate.
• Package Deals and In-House Services - Some venues offer package deals that include catering, A/V equipment, and decorations. These packages can provide excellent value for your money, as they often come at a discounted rate compared to booking each service separately. Additionally, using in-house services can save you money and reduce the need to hire external vendors.
• Consider Minimum Spend Options - Many venues in London offer a minimum spend instead of a flat hire fee. This means you commit to spending a specific amount on food and beverages instead of paying a venue hire fee. It can be a cost-effective choice, especially if your event involves catering. Learn more about minimum spend from our blog post!
• Leverage Technology - Use online venue marketplaces and event planning tools to compare prices, read reviews, and find hidden gems. Websites like Tagvenue can help you discover budget-friendly event venues in London by offering a variety of options and allowing you to filter venues based on your budget requirements.

Now you're equipped with essential knowledge about corporate event venues in London. If you still have some questions or need further guidance, have a look at the FAQ section below. Maybe your query has already been addressed! Good luck with planning your event, and may it be a resounding success!

Eco-Friendly Corporate Gatherings 

Planning a corporate event doesn’t mean you have to leave a carbon footprint larger than Big Ben’s shadow. With a growing emphasis on sustainability, it’s entirely possible (and increasingly popular) to host eco-friendly corporate events that are both impressive and impactful without compromising the planet. Whether you’re organising a conference, a team-building retreat, or a glitzy corporate gala, let’s explore how you can make your next event a beacon of sustainability.

• Choosing the Right Venue - The venue sets the stage for your eco-friendly event. Opt for venues with strong green credentials, such as those using renewable energy sources, boasting high energy efficiency ratings, or those actively participating in recycling and waste reduction programs. Venues like green-roofed buildings, spaces with natural lighting, and those accredited with environmental certifications are your allies in the quest for a greener event. Semi-Private Dining Room at Gaucho Charlotte Street serves as an example of a venue that follows sustainable practices, offering a lovely atmosphere!
• Sustainable Catering Options - What’s an event without delectable eats and treats? Go for catering services that prioritise locally-sourced, organic, and seasonal produce to reduce transportation emissions and support local agriculture. Vegetarian and vegan menu options not only cater to diverse dietary preferences but also have a lower environmental impact. Remember to minimise food waste by accurately estimating guest numbers and consider donating any leftovers to local food banks or shelters.
• Minimising Waste - Ditch the disposables and say no to single-use plastics. Opt for reusable, compostable, or biodegradable tableware and encourage guests to bring their own reusable water bottles. Digital invitations and apps for event schedules cut down on paper waste, keeping your event communications green as well.
• Eco-Friendly Transport Options - Encourage attendees to use public transport, carpool, or even cycle to the event. Choose venues that are easily reachable by these greener modes of transportation, such as Here or The Chapel and Speakeasy at Aviation House. 
• Engaging Activities with a Green Twist - Incorporate eco-conscious activities that highlight the importance of sustainability. This could be a workshop on zero-waste living, a team-building activity focused on urban gardening, or a cleanup challenge at a nearby park. Such activities not only add a unique touch to your corporate event but also foster a sense of environmental responsibility among the participants.
• Green Event Swag - Rethink traditional event swag and opt for eco-friendly alternatives. Instead of the usual plastic-laden freebies, consider gifts like sustainably-sourced coffee beans or digital vouchers. Not only are these more environmentally friendly, but they’re also more likely to be appreciated and used by your guests.
• Carbon Offsetting - For those unavoidable emissions associated with your event, carbon offsetting can be a responsible way to balance the books. Invest in carbon offset projects such as reforestation, renewable energy, or community-based sustainability initiatives. It’s a gesture that underscores your commitment to not just minimising harm but actively doing good.

Hosting an eco-friendly corporate event in London is not just about making a statement; it’s about setting a standard. It’s about showing that corporate gatherings can be both grand and green, proving that environmental responsibility and corporate celebrations can go hand in hand. So, let’s raise a glass (a reusable one, of course) to greener corporate events in London, where business meets sustainability, and where every event leaves a positive imprint, not just on your guests, but on the planet too!

FAQs about Corporate Event Venues in London

How do I pick the ideal venue for a corporate event in London?

When choosing a venue for your corporate event, make sure to consider size, price, ease of access, hospitality standards, functionality and suitability for your corporate image or brand. Venue marketplaces such as Tagvenue are excellent places to source venues experienced in meeting corporate standards and offering professional facilities. You can use our smart search filters to narrow down the selection of locations and easily find and book a top-rated corporate event space in London in just a few clicks!

What is included in a corporate event package offer?

A corporate event package should provide an event tailored to your particular needs. Packages are generally priced on a per person basis and will cover the cost of catering. In most packages, the meal will usually include a three-course dinner. Unless alternate arrangements for wine or a drink with dinner, drinks are usually charged separately, but you can find deals with complimentary water, tea, and coffee. Entertainment and decoration can also be offered by the corporate event spaces, or they may be able to recommend featured vendors who are available at an extra charge. If you're looking for a conference room, networking venue, or meeting space, the packages often offer event-specific amenities such as audiovisual equipment, notepads, and access to fast WiFi.

What catering options do London's corporate event venues provide?

When choosing a business event space in London you may hire one that comes with in-house catering, enabling the venue to prepare whatever you need for the event. However, you may be required to hire outside vendors. If you are faced with a strict budget, it is best to ask for cost estimates from a number of venues to decide which option will be cheapest for your event. In either case, it would be wise to check if the conference venue offers a BYOB option. You can enjoy significant savings by providing your own beverages for the event, even if there is a corkage fee!

How much does it cost to hire a corporate event venue in London?

Venue pricing may vary greatly depending on the day of the week and the time of the day. Sizing and on-site amenities may also influence the pricing. Fortunately, London offers a variety of cheap corporate event venues, as well as more upscale options! If you decide on a venue with minimum spend, expect prices to vary from £500 to £8,000. Hourly rates will start from around £20, while per session and per day hire fees at London's corporate spaces can be as low as £50. If you decide to go for a delegate package in London, expect to pay anywhere between £15 and £100+ per person. (All data from Tagvenue.)