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London's best historic venues for hire

Hosting an event where you need to impress? London’s best historic venues have got you covered. Our round-up has been compiled with a range of occasions in mind, so whether you’re organising a wedding, birthday party, fundraiser or corporate event, there’ll be something on the list to meet your needs.

Updated on 19 February 2025

Nothing creates a sense of occasion quite like a venue with a fascinating past – and the vast number of historic venues in London mean that you’re totally spoilt for choice for your next big bash. From cool party venues that can cater for the largest of crowds to intimate halls and houses that will elevate your event from the realms of the ordinary to ultimate luxury, our edit of the best historic venues for hire will make the process of planning your event easier than ever.

Whatever your dream setting, London can make it a reality – set up shop in the dining room of an esteemed hotel, or channel your inner duke or duchess by hosting a soiree in the grounds of a Royal Palace. For a more quirky alternative, think outside of your usual “venue” and look for listed buildings that are just filled with impressive architecture and a host of historic stories. Whatever type of event, meeting or conference you’re organising, there are dozens of hidden gems in this collection just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed.

From elegant hotels in the heart of the city to imposing historic halls with a serious sense of grandeur, the capital’s most spectacular locations all have a story to tell – and the jaw dropping décor and impeccable service will wow your guests from the moment they step through the door. Scroll down the page for all of the historic venue inspiration you could ever need – and if you like what you see? Simply click through on the individual listings to find a full breakdown of the vital info you need to make your booking.

Kensington Palace

Kensington Palace

Kensington Gardens, Kensington, London, W8 4PX

For a venue that is truly impressive, you can't get much grander than hosting a party at Kensington Palace. The building itself dates all the way back to the 1600s and was designed by renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren.

Max Meeting 200
Max Standing 300
Max Banquet 200
Glaziers Hall

Glaziers Hall

9 Montague Close, London Bridge, London, SE1 9DD

Found right along the South Bank, Glaziers Hall is in an impressive location that your guests will love. Along with riverside views, the venue is a treasure trove of historic rooms for hire having been built in 1808.

Max Meeting 300
Max Theatre 300
Max Standing 300
Max Banquet 220
Armourers

Armourers' Hall

81 Coleman Street, City of London, London, EC2R 5BJ

Armourers' Hall is one of London's oldest, most historic venues - dating all the way back to 1346. If you are booking this venue then expect historic suits of armour and a host of paintings featuring famous figures who have been part of the venue’s history.

Max Meeting 100
Max Standing 125
Max Banquet 85
Brown

Brown's Hotel

33 Albemarle Street , Mayfair, London, W1S 4BP

With a history dating back all the way back to 1837, Brown’s Hotel - found in Mayfair - is a stunning historic location for your next event. The exterior features beautiful Georgian detailing, while the interiors have a historic luxe feeling. Choose from a range of suites in varying sizes for your next event.

Max Meeting 32
Max Theatre 70
Max Standing 120
Max Banquet 70
The London Library

The London Library

14 St James's Square, St. James's, London, SW1Y 4LG

Literary-lovers - we found you the perfect venue! The London Library is home to over a million books and was founded in 1841. With a number of spaces for hire, it can perfectly suit everything from meetings to networking events.

Max Meeting 100
Max Theatre 90
Max Standing 200
Max Banquet 100
Houses of Parliament

Houses of Parliament

Houses of Parliament, Westminster, London, SW1A 0AA

For an iconic venue, you can’t get much better than the Houses of Parliament. The venue was designed by Charles Barry in the 19th century and has ten historic spaces available to hire for meetings and events.

Max Meeting 160
Max Theatre 150
Max Standing 200
Max Banquet 170
Furniture Makers

Furniture Makers' Hall

12 Austin Friars, City of London, London, EC2N 2HE

Originally built in 1882, Furniture Makers' Hall offers Victorian charm in the heart of London's financial district. This elegant venue retains many original features, including an ornate oak staircase. With its bespoke wood furniture and fittings, it exudes a warm, refined ambience across several versatile spaces.

Max Meeting 80
Max Theatre 120
Max Standing 120
Max Banquet 80
Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey, Westminster, London, SW1P 3PA

Do London venues get much more historic than Westminster Abbey? Among the magnificent spaces available for hire at this iconic London landmark are the 13th century cloisters, the medieval 'Cellarium' undercroft, and the green lawns of the College Gardens, where a stylish marquee hosts gala dinners and receptions in the summer months. 

Max Standing 850
Max Banquet 240
Inner Temple Hall

Inner Temple Hall

The Honourable Society of the Inner Temple, City of London, London, EC4Y 7HL

Found in the heart of the City of London, Inner Temple Hall is one of just a handful of original Georgian event halls found in London. High ceilings, the latest tech and beautifully restored decor make Inner Temple Hall a great choice for your next event.

Max Meeting 270
Max Theatre 270
Max Standing 400
Max Banquet 240
The View at The Royal College of Surgeons

The View at The Royal College of Surgeons

38-43 Lincoln's Inn Fields, Holborn, London, WC2A 3PE

The View is named as such thanks to the impressive views this building offers. But that is not all you get from this space. A grand entrance will be the perfect kick-start to your event, while the food is taken care of by the UK’s longest established caterer Searcy’s.

Max Meeting 63
Max Theatre 300
Max Standing 300
Max Banquet 180
The Tower of London

The Tower of London

Tower Hill, City of London, London, EC3N 4AB

Dinners, receptions, private tours; the Tower of London (steeped in Tudor history, and still home to the dazzling Crown Jewels) can offer anything your party requires. If size is a factor, this imposing castle is capable of hosting an impressive 2,000 guests.

Max Meeting 150
Max Standing 300
Max Banquet 240
RSA House

RSA House

8 John Adam Street, Charing Cross, London, WC2N 6EZ

Located in Charing Cross, RSA House is a versatile event space. The 18th century building combines historic style with modern amenities, meaning you get the best of both worlds when it comes to hosting your event.

Max Meeting 35
Max Theatre 180
Max Standing 220
Max Banquet 130
Fishmongers

Fishmongers' Hall

Fishmongers' Hall, London Bridge, London, EC4R 9EL

Steeped in over 700 years of history, Fishmongers' Hall is a Grade-II listed building, with a magnificent event space for a memorable occasion. With Greek Revival architecture and a maximum capacity of 350 guests, this venue is perfect for large-scale banquets, corporate conferences, and wedding receptions. 

Max Meeting 112
Max Theatre 203
Max Standing 350
Max Banquet 200
Founders

Founders' Hall

1 Cloth Fair, Barbican, London, EC1A 7JQ

This magnificent venue combines heritage with contemporary style and is conveniently just a few minutes walk from Barbican, Farringdon and St Paul’s tube stations. For more relaxed drinks receptions, The Parlour Room is a great option or for something more grand book the Livery Hall.

Max Meeting 24
Max Theatre 84
Max Standing 100
Max Banquet 75
Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace

East Molesey, Hampton, London, KT8 9AU

Fancy hiring Henry VIII’s home? Located just outside London in the borough of Richmond-upon-Thames, Hampton Court Palace’s manicured grounds and awe-inspiring architecture are, unsurprisingly, fit for royalty; whether you’re planning a wedding, formal dinner, gala or commercial event.

Max Meeting 180
Max Standing 1200
Max Banquet 600
Mansion House

Mansion House

Walbrook, City of London, London, EC4N 8BH

Mansion House is a Grade-I listed building which dates all the way back to the 18th century. Today it is the home and office of the Lord Mayor of the City of London, as well as an impressive event space.

Max Meeting 400
Max Theatre 400
Max Standing 500
Max Banquet 360
10-11 Carlton House Terrace

10-11 Carlton House Terrace

10-11 Carlton House Terrace , St. James's, London, SW1Y 5AH

Home to The British Academy, 10-11 Carlton House Terrace is a Grade-I listed property that has been thoughtfully maintained. You can choose from a selection of spaces so whether it’s an impressive meeting location or the perfect party spot, you will find a space to suit.

Max Meeting 34
Max Theatre 104
Max Standing 150
Max Banquet 100

The best thing about historic venues in London is that they all come with a story, the perfect thing to base an evening of entertainment around. Perhaps you’ll plump for one of the royal residences and ask guests to come in their Sunday best or maybe you’d prefer hosting a grand event at one of the many headquarter halls across the capital.

Got a very special occasion to celebrate in style? Check out these spectacular venues with a view that are guarenteed to impress your guests.

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