London's best unusual Christmas party venues

Big Penny Social may well be the ultimate party venue for those looking for a big night out this festive season. Here you'll find a sprawling Beer Hall and cosy Winter Garden, where guests can enjoy mulled wines, boozy hot chocolates, and curling lanes. Plus, there’s capacity for up to 1,400, so there’s no need for anyone to miss out.

The Grade-II listed London Transport Museum is one of Covent Garden’s most recognisable landmarks, but did you know you can have a Christmas party here? The Museum Galleries is best suited for a unique celebration, immersing guests in London’s transport history before treating them to a traditional Christmas banquet.

This 120-year-old Dutch barge could be quite the unusual spot to host your festivities this winter. Great views, a commitment to sustainability and a dance floor are all part of the package, whether you're looking to host an indulgent sit-down feast or standing drinks reception. 

Whether your co-workers are keen on cars or you just want something a little out of the ordinary, Mercedes-Benz World could be up your street. Located just outside London, this automotive theme park offers driving experiences, F1 simulators and team building activities during the day, before you descend into festive merriment in the evening.

If you're looking to stray from tradition this Christmas, consider Maki & Ramen for your next Christmas party. The Japanese restaurant specialises in rich tonkotsu ramen and fresh sushi rolls, with a variety of festive packages and set menus on offer at this time of year. You can hire the Japanese Garden for 50-person dinners or take over the full venue for up to 150 guests. 

Ever fancied trying your hand at curling? The Curling Club makes this unusual winter sport accessible for all, packaging up a shortened curling lane with plenty of drinks and snacks to keep the team going, as well as burgers and hot dogs for those with bigger appetites.

An imposing skyscraper near Old Street, art'otel London Hoxton has several events spaces, but its dedicated art gallery is surely the jewel in the crown. Boasting floor-to-ceiling AV screens, this 135 sqm space is perfect for a Christmas drinks reception with a touch of flair and creativity.

Inject some friendly competition into this year's festivities and get the team racing at F1® Arcade. Private hire is available for 90, complete with your own bar and gaming chairs, so everyone can get behind the wheel of a virtual F1 car. With a range of food packages available too, F1® Arcade has something for everyone.

Famed for its party atmosphere, The Little Scarlet Door will have you feeling right at home with its vintage decor inspired by a student flatt, complete with chandeliers and disco balls to to help you get into the festive spirit. The Open Plan Kitchen has space for 70, with the Basement Studio catering for groups of up to 130.

Just a minute's walk from Oxford Circus, Swingers West End couldn’t be better placed for Londoners in search of a bit of crazy golf action. The West End site boasts three mini golf courses, as well as a huge range of private rooms for large and small gatherings and street food from well-known brands like Patty&Bun and Pizza Pilgrims.

The Barbican’s Conservatory and Garden Room is definitely one of London’s most impressive, unique venues, home to over 1,500 species of tropical plants and exotic fish. Here, you and your guests can enjoy festive drinks under the conservatory’s jungle canopy, or head to the Garden Room for a Christmas banquet.

Looking for a unique location that still puts the focus on the food? Swap out your turkey for extensive menus of Chinese fare, all to be enjoyed on a floating barge. Sit back on the water, surrounded by twinkling lights and tuck into a non-traditional feast. What’s not to love?

Looking for a show-stopping London venue? Housed within the glamorous BoTree Hotel, 77 London offers an unconventional backdrop this Christmas with neon lighting and a futuristic feel. This sprawling space can host up to 500 guests standing, with Italian menus from in-house restaurant LAVO to seal the deal.

Looking for a venue with character? This historical building houses a medieval Cellarium undercroft, once used by monks in the 14th century to store food and drink. The space features vaulted ceilings and period architecture, and is available to hire for up to 120 standing - ideal for festive drinks receptions and large Christmas parties. 

This impressive marquee fits up to 1500 for receptions and 650 for seated dinners, making it an ideal spot for an unusual corporate Christmas do. There’s enough room for you and all your guests inside, plus performers such as stilt walkers, fire breathers and aerial silk gymnasts. Join shared party nights or take over the entire space - your choice.

Looking for an unusual Christmas party venue in Brixton? 100 Barrington is found in a former furniture factory, complete with extravagant period features such as 24-foot brick archways. There are three spaces here, perfect for those looking to host a welcome drink before moving on to the main event and finishing up on the dance floor.

Ever hosted a Christmas party on a bus? No, we didn’t think so. Bustronome is the sort of statement-making space that will leave your guests talking. Enjoy a complete festive feast, Christmas tunes blasting, whilst taking in all of London’s iconic landmarks as you drive around the city.

Christmas in a castle? Sounds alright to us. Le Gothique’s Disney-esque turrets and spires make it an almost fairytale-like setting for Christmas. Inside it’s full of character too, with a fantastic, award-winning bar and a hidden walled garden. Keep your fingers crossed for snow to complete the storybook Christmas.

For a Christmas party with a touch of theatrical flair, check out Phoenix Arts Club. Whether you’re planning for a small group or your entire office, this Soho setting offers something for everyone. Choose from four packages, with entertainment add-ons including everything from festive quizzes and karaoke, to floorwalkers or a full cabaret show.

Spark a bit of competition this festive season at Pitch and challenge your colleagues to play some of the world’s most famous golf courses. With a variety of different levels, from novice to expert, all the team can enjoy this state of the art simulation. Offering bookings for up to 120 guests, it’s a great choice for larger parties.