The UK’s best historic venues for hire

Looking to impress with a showstopping venue? From grand stately homes to centuries-old armories, these historic UK venues are bursting with character. Think striking period features, sprawling grounds and top-tier service to boot.

Updated on 03 June 2025

When it comes to choosing a venue for your next event, there's something undeniably special about a historic setting. From ancient castles and royal armouries, to stately manors and everything in between, the UK is home to a staggering selection of venues steeped in history - and, as it turns out, many of them are available for private hire. Whether you're planning a gala that wouldn't be complete without a regal backdrop, or are just looking to impress at your next landmark celebration, these venues bring buckets of character and charm that's impossible to find elsewhere.

In our opinion, choosing a venue is the most important part of planning any event, and a historic venue is sure to elevate any occasion with an added touch of luxury. Imagine hosting a drinks reception in a medieval banquet hall, or a conference in a Georgian mansion? It doesn't get much more spectacular than that. These magnificent settings are ones that your guests won't forget in a hurry, and if you're lucky, will ensure your event goes down in history. In fact, many of these venues have been carefully modernised within, retaining plenty of their historic features, but upgraded with state-of-the-art AV capabilities, dedicated events teams and versatile layouts that can be tailored to your occasion. 

We've scoured the country to bring you the very best historic venues across the UK, from centuries-old estates in Birmingham to Surrey's finest stately homes, to the historic spas in Bath. No matter where you're based, there's a historic venue nearby. If any of the below strike your interest, simply click through to find out more information about pricing, capacities, and availability.

The Hall at Denton Reserve

The Hall at Denton Reserve

Denton Reserve , Ilkley, West Yorkshire, LS29 0HH

If you're looking to impress with a historic setting, you can't go wrong with The Hall at Denton Reserve. This Grade-I listed Georgian mansion has recently undergone a renovation, ensuring functional and sustainable spaces for your next event. Expect sweeping staircases, magnificent reception rooms, and 2,500 acres of parkland.

Max Banquet 90
Brocket Hall Estate

Brocket Hall Estate

Brocket Hall, Welwyn, Hertfordshire, AL8 7XG

Brocket Hall dates back to 1239, bringing a rich history to your event and taking the title as one of England’s finest stately homes. The Ballroom is particularly breathtaking, with its crystal chandeliers, muraled ceiling, and space for up to 200, whilst The Library is a cosy nook for up to 50.

Max Meeting 54
Max Theatre 150
Max Standing 200
Max Banquet 150
Oxford Town Hall

Oxford Town Hall

St. Aldate’s, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1BX

A Victorian gem in the heart of Oxford, this historic town hall features grand 19th-century interiors, stained glass, and domed ceilings. Host celebrations from 18 to 500 people, with everything from your very own Council Chambers to the magnificent Main Hall, which is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Max Meeting 500
Max Theatre 500
Max Standing 500
Max Banquet 300
Old Palace Chester

Old Palace Chester

Little John Street, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 1SN

Old Palace Chester brings 300 years of history and sprawling riverside views to your upcoming event. Just steps from the city centre, its grand ballroom and versatile River Room make it a prime choice for exclusive corporate events, gala dinners, or private occasions that require a historic backdrop.

Max Meeting 70
Max Theatre 200
Max Standing 200
Max Banquet 150
Hampton Manor

Hampton Manor

Shadowbrook Lane, Solihull, West Midlands, B92 0EN

Once belonging to Sir Robert Peel, this 45 acre estate sits on the outskirts of Solihull. For a venue that’s as luxurious as it is historic, head to Hampton Manor, with several unique event spaces for hire, from the glass-roofed Courtyard, to the wood-panelled Tasting Room.

Max Banquet 132
Carlton Towers

Carlton Towers

Carlton Towers, Goole, North Yorkshire, DN14 9LZ

Found just outside of Goole in North Yorkshire, Carlton Towers is a stately home steeped in heritage, dating back over 800 years. Still boasting a selection of period features, expect stately rooms complete with dramatic chandeliers and roaring fireplaces, that are sure to add a regal touch to your next event.

Max Theatre 199
Max Banquet 60
Bourton Hall

Bourton Hall

Main Street, Rugby, Warwickshire, CV23 9QZ

Bourton Hall is an Italian-style mansion and a former Catholic chapel that dates all the way back to the 1700s, making for a truly impressive venue. With its grand Banqueting Hall, unique Chandelier Bar and acres of surrounding greenery, it doesn’t get much grander than this.

West Horsley Place

West Horsley Place

West Horsley Place, West Horsley, Surrey, KT24 6AN

A Grade-I listed manor house in the sprawling Surrey countryside, West Horsley Place is well-suited for hosting a wide variety of events. Spaces here are fit for royalty, from The Drawing Room complete with its 18th-century red silk wall hangings, to the 700-person Grange Park Opera House.

Max Theatre 700
Max Standing 100
Max Banquet 100
The Gainsborough Bath Spa

The Gainsborough Bath Spa

The Gainsborough Bath Spa Beau Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1QY

Housed in one of Bath's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, The Gainsborough Bath Spa is a stand-out spot for those looking to host in the city. Blending Georgian and Victorian features throughout, the Chapel is particularly historic, although you'll find several contemporary touches if you're looking for somewhere equally functional.

Max Theatre 80
Max Standing 100
Roman Baths & Pump Room

Roman Baths & Pump Room

The Pump Room, Bath Stall Street, Bath, Somerset, BA1 1LZ

One of the oldest standing pieces of Roman architecture across the country, The Roman Baths and Pump Rooms dates back around 2,000 years. Choose from several dedicated event spaces, from the Great Bath to the Reception Hall, which boasts a grand columned entrance for a showstopping first impression. 

Max Meeting 300
Max Standing 320
Max Banquet 200
East Riddlesden Hall

East Riddlesden Hall

Bradford Road, Keighley, West Yorkshire, BD20 5EL

A 17th-century manor house on the outskirts of Keighly, East Riddlesden Hall provides a uniquely historic backdrop for a variety of events. The Airedale Barn is its standout space, bringing a rustic feel to events for up to 250, with several smaller rooms which can host everything from a conference to a vow renewal.

Max Theatre 250
Max Standing 250
Max Banquet 160
St Osyth Priory

St Osyth Priory

St Osyth Priory, St. Osyth, Essex, C016 8GW

Steeped in over 400 years of history, St Osyth Priory is truly one-of-a-kind venue, complete with 350 acres of parkland, and a selection of Grade-I, II* and II listed buildings. Take over the regal Gallery with space for up to 150, or celebrate under the ruins of Abbots Tower which can accommodate 60.

Max Meeting 150
Max Theatre 150
Max Standing 150
Max Banquet 150
RHS Garden Wisley

RHS Garden Wisley

RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB

Home to one of the largest plant collections across the globe, RHS Garden Wisley has been open to the public for over 100 years, offering a historic, and botanical, venue for your next event. When choosing your space, there's nowhere quite like The Glasshouse with its tropical plants, glass ceiling, and space for 180 guests.

Max Meeting 35
Max Theatre 320
Max Standing 320
Max Banquet 200
Royal Armouries: Fort Nelson

Royal Armouries: Fort Nelson

Portsdown Hill Road, Fareham, Hampshire, PO17 6AN

A 19th-century Victorian fort with panoramic views over the river, Fort Nelson offers a history-rich setting that's ideal for both corporate and private events. The rooms here are bursting with character, such as the Officers’ Mess and the Ante Room. Plus, guests get access to unique military exhibits for a truly unique experience.

Max Meeting 26
Max Theatre 80
Max Standing 100
Max Banquet 60
Holywell Estate

Holywell Estate

Holywell Estate, Swanmore, Southampton, Hampshire, SO32 2QE

Still home to the Earl and Countess of Clarendon, Holywell Estate invites you to host your upcoming event on its sprawling grounds. The Grade II-listed estate brings a rich heritage with wide open lawns, a walled garden and tipi setups, perfect for those looking to celebrate in the warmer months.

Max Standing 150
Offley Place

Offley Place

Kings Walden Road , Hitchin, Hertfordshire, SG5 3DX

Set within 27 acres of parkland, Offley Place is a 17th-century manor that has seen a wide variety of events over the years. Choose from the grand Hester Ballroom with space for up to 250, or keep things a tad smaller, but no less historic, in The Manor House which combines historic charm with expert hospitality.

Max Standing 250
Max Banquet 80
Monkey Island Estate

Monkey Island Estate

Bray-On-Thames, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 2EE

Set on a private island in the River Thames, Monkey Island Estate blends 18th-century grandeur with a contemporary touch. Boasting botanical chandeliers, and striking ceiling murals, choose from several elegant event spaces, or opt for exclusive hire of the entire estate for a truly unforgettable celebration.

Max Meeting 50
Max Theatre 200
Max Standing 200
Max Banquet 40
Rookesbury Park

Rookesbury Park

Southwick Road, Wickham, Hampshire, PO17 6HT

Looking for a historic venue in Hampshire? Rookesbury Park is a grand private estate, offering several elegant, period rooms, a spacious Orangery, and 600 acres of ancient woodland. This family-owned estate can accommodate up to 350 guests, and has hosted everything from photo shoots to team away days.

Max Theatre 350
Max Banquet 200

Not quite what you're looking for? We've got countless lists to some of the best UK venues, from the best country houses for hire across the country, to the most unusual venues that the UK has to offer. Or, if you're looking for a central location for all your guests, then be sure to browse our selection of London's best historic venues.  

Looking for inspiration on where to host your next event? Sign up to our venues and events newsletter, and keep up to date with all the latest venue news and roundups.

Join SquareMeal Rewards

Collect points, worth at least £1, every time you book online and dine at a participating restaurant.

Start Collecting Points

Already a member? Sign in