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Best riverside venues for hire in London

One of London’s crowning landmarks, the River Thames offers its own selection of waterside spots that make a perfect space for your upcoming event. Boasting picturesque riverside views and a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital, elevate your event with one of these riverside venues.

Updated on 08 May 2025

If you’ve stumbled across this list, it’s likely that you’re on the hunt for a riverside venue in London to host your upcoming event. Each of the spots below boasts proximity to one of London’s waterways, providing idyllic backdrops for whatever event you had in mind.

London's inland location means that seaside events are out of the picture when it comes to event planning in the capital, but what it lacks in beaches, it more than makes up for with rivers and canals. Crowds are more than happy to head down to one of the various waterside locations from the famous River Thames that runs right through the middle to the various canals across the city. Come summer, the banks are packed with crowds heading to grab a drink by the water or find an al fresco spot that boasts picturesque vistas.

Waterside venues in London are plentiful, offering everything from corporate meeting rooms to spaces to host a conference, each showcasing the best of the city. These locations could be just what you're looking for and, more importantly, might even help you seal that all-important deal. Similarly, those looking for wedding venues in London should find something to feed their imaginations here. Just imagine a glorious waterside backdrop to help elevate your photos!

Although united by their close proximity to the River Thames, the venues listed below are all very different with options including everything from hotels to historic venues that are bound to suit a wide range of budgets and tastes. If one of the below strikes your fancy then be sure to click ‘book now’ to find out more about the space, or even make an inquiry. Just imagine an evening by the water, a glass of fizz in hand as you take in the peaceful surroundings.

We can’t guarantee that British summertime will turn up to your event, but we can guarantee a great venue! Read on for some of our favourite riverside venues in London.

OXO Tower

OXO Tower

OXO Tower Wharf, South Bank, London, SE1 9PH

From the top floor of the iconic OXO Tower, you’re in for spectacular views across the Thames. The flagship OXO Tower Restaurant provides a refined experience with modern British cuisine and impeccable service, while the Brasserie offers a more relaxed setting with classic dishes. Plus, there’s an alfresco terrace for sundown cocktails.

Max Standing 750
Max Banquet 160
Thames Luxury Charters

Thames Luxury Charters

Admirals Court, Tower Hill, London, SE1 2LH

Never mind riverside, Thames Luxury Charters comes armed with three distinctive vessels available for private hire, sailing down the Thames. Guests enjoy bespoke catering, fine wines, and panoramic views of London’s iconic skyline as they cruise past landmarks, making it an unforgettable riverside experience in the heart of the city.

Max Theatre 400
Max Standing 620
Max Banquet 432
Raven

Raven's Ait

Ravens Ait Island, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 4HN

This island venue is about as riverside a location as you could hope for, offering scenic views from every angle. Located just outside of Surbiton, Raven’s Ait is a truly unique spot that provides a complete escape for your event. The Marquee here sits against the banks of the river and has space for a party of up to 250.

Max Meeting 250
Max Theatre 250
Max Standing 250
Max Banquet 250
Park Plaza Riverbank

Park Plaza Riverbank

Park Plaza Riverbank London, Lambeth, London, SE1 7TJ

A contemporary riverside hotel, Park Plaza Riverbank offers several flexible event spaces across 24 floors, which can be adapted to various events. With 645 stylish rooms, an indoor pool, and the award-winning Chino Latino restaurant, it’s also ideal for conferences, receptions, and private events for up to 660 guests

Max Meeting 60
Max Theatre 650
Max Standing 660
Max Banquet 540
Houses of Parliament

Houses of Parliament

Houses of Parliament, Westminster, London, SW1A 0AA

Events in this British landmark’s historic spaces will resonate with groups both large and small. Situated on a Unesco World Heritage site, the Houses of Parliament hosts memorable events for guests across its varied spaces. Right next to the Thames, the all-weather Terrace Pavilion marquee offers close-up views of the river.

Max Meeting 160
Max Theatre 150
Max Standing 200
Max Banquet 170
The Wharf

The Wharf

22 Manor Road, Teddington, Middlesex, TW11 8BG

Yes, this one’s a little outside London, but a fantastic riverside venue is always worth the travel. The Wharf is perfect for corporate events, private dining, and parties, accommodating up to 300 guests. With tailored menus and personalised service, The Wharf is a stellar choice for those occasions that deserve to be remembered.

Max Banquet 300
The Underglobe at Shakespeare

The Underglobe at Shakespeare's Globe

21 New Globe Walk, Bankside, London, SE1 9DT

The views at Swan London, next to Shakespeare’s Globe are appropriately dramatic from this waterside location. The bright, top-floor Balcony Room is a private space that looks out to the river and St Paul’s Cathedral, while a level below, the River Room showcases the Thames through double-aspect windows.

Max Meeting 56
Max Theatre 70
Max Standing 425
Max Banquet 250
The Westin London City

The Westin London City

60 Upper Thames St, City Of London, London, EC4V 3AD

With views of the Thames, Tate Modern, and the Globe Theatre, you’d be hard pressed to find a better location than this. The Westin offers several adaptable spaces for all manner of events, whether you’ll need AV facilities or great food and drink, the team here are ready for anything.

Max Meeting 18
Max Theatre 248
Max Standing 300
Max Banquet 200
Glaziers Hall

Glaziers Hall

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

This impressive riverside venue boasts seven unique spaces, alongside a pledge of sustainability with its ‘green packages’ available for your upcoming event. The River Room is the best spot for Thameside views, offering a sleek, blank-canvas option for up to 180 guests. 

Max Meeting 300
Max Theatre 300
Max Standing 300
Max Banquet 220
Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace

East Molesey, Hampton, London, KT8 9AU

Once home to royalty, Hampton Court Palace is a truly unforgettable venue. The site has played host to lavish celebrations over the centuries, from gala dinners to festive banquets and historic meetings. State rooms, grand staircases, cobbled courtyards and riverside views make the venue one of the country’s most impressive palaces.

Max Meeting 180
Max Standing 1200
Max Banquet 600
IET London: Savoy Place

IET London: Savoy Place

2 Savoy Place , Covent Garden, London, WC2R 0BL

The refurbished Savoy Place offers increased capacity and cutting-edge tech for conferences and the like. The Riverside Room and Maxwell Library both come with fine views over the Thames, whilst the Johnson Roof Terrace is made for summer parties with a spanning space for al fresco events of up to 200.

Max Meeting 50
Max Theatre 451
Max Standing 330
Max Banquet 330
Hawksmoor Bar Wood Wharf

Hawksmoor Bar Wood Wharf

Hawksmoor Bar, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5GX

A standout riverside venue, you'll find Hawksmoor Wood Wharf set on an eco-friendly floating pavilion with panoramic water views. The venue offers flexible event spaces, including a heated waterside terrace, private dining rooms, and a lively bar, ideal for everything from corporate gatherings to celebrations. 

Max Banquet 160
The Tower of London

The Tower of London

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

Steeped in a rich history, each of the rooms at the Tower of London’s has its own story: the White Tower houses the armour of Henry VIII, while the Medieval Palace makes a great summer party space. Plus, with picturesque views of the Thames, this venue really has everything.

Max Meeting 150
Max Standing 300
Max Banquet 240
Westminster Boating Base

Westminster Boating Base

136 Grosvenor Road, Westminster, London, SW1V 3JY

Primely located against the banks of the Thames, Westminster Boating Base offers an idyllic backdrop for those looking to host an event in Pimlico. Expect white-clothed tables, floor-to-ceiling windows, and top-tier service, with exclusive hire for up to 350 guests. What’s not to love?

Max Meeting 130
Max Standing 350
Max Banquet 150
Lee Valley White Water Centre

Lee Valley White Water Centre

Station Road , Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, EN9 1AB

Though it might be a little further from the centre, this Lee Valley venue comes with a laid-back atmosphere, plenty of team-building activities, and a private terrace for drinks receptions. All in all, whether it’s a corporate summer party, a social event, or a meeting, it’s worth going the extra mile.

Max Meeting 450
Max Standing 450
Max Banquet 400
Shangri-La The Shard, London

Shangri-La The Shard, London

31 St Thomas Street, London Bridge, London, SE1 9QU

Found across levels 34 to 52 of The Shard, Shangri-La Hotel is an event space that justifies superlatives. The Ren Ballroom can accommodate up to 140 guests in its glamorous space with floor to ceiling windows that offer eye-catching views in all directions. 

Max Meeting 120
Max Standing 140
Max Banquet 100
Kings Place

Kings Place

90 York Way , King's Cross, London, N1 9AG

Kings Place is a striking, multi-purpose venue near King’s Cross, housed in an award-winning building overlooking Regent’s Canal. It offers impressive, flexible event spaces, including the on-site Rotunda restaurant, which offers a large waterside terrace and serves excellent beef and lamb from its own Northumberland farm.

Max Meeting 100
Max Theatre 420
Max Standing 400
Max Banquet 120
Hoxton Docks

Hoxton Docks

55 Laburnum Street, Hoxton, London, E2 8BD

Set on Regents Canal, Hoxton Docks offers an ideal blend of industrial heritage with modern versatility. It’s an ex-coal storage facility with plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces, including warehouses, courtyards, and rooftop areas. Raw brickwork, natural light, and canal views offer an ideal atmosphere for both corporate hires and social events.

Max Theatre 200
Max Standing 600
Max Banquet 150
OXO2

OXO2

Bargehouse Street , South Bank, London, SE1 9PH

OXO2 is a contemporary riverside event space on the second floor of the iconic OXO Tower, offering panoramic views of the River Thames and London’s skyline, including St Paul’s Cathedral. It’s a blank canvas venue, accommodating up to 400 standing or 180 seated, and so it’s ideal for corporate events, and large celebrations

Max Meeting 65
Max Theatre 180
Max Standing 400
Max Banquet 160
58VE

58VE

58 Victoria Embankment, Blackfriars, London, EC4Y 0DS

Set on Victoria Embankment, just minutes from Blackfriars station, 58VE is a modern venue with a stylish sixth-floor lounge and balcony facing the river. The in-house culinary team focuses on fresh, seasonal dishes, while versatile event spaces and comprehensive AV support make it perfect for both corporate and private events.

Max Theatre 180
Max Standing 200
Max Banquet 102

Are you on the hunt for an outdoor space for an upcoming event? We've got plenty more venues that could be exactly what you're looking for. Click through to find some of our favourite garden party venues in the city alongside some of the best rooftops available for private hire, if that's more your style. 

Or, if you're set on the idea of dining by the river, then we've got a list of our the best waterside restaurants and bars in London, offering cuisines and locations that are sure to suit any occasion. 

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