Need an alfresco venue for a private party, drinks reception or intimate dinner? We’ve got you covered
Best for: large-scale receptions, river views
Capacity: 500
When the mercury rises, Somerset House’s River Terrace is a fine spot for an evening reception. Its setting is hard to beat: overlooking the Thames, with views of the South Bank to one side and the building’s striking neoclassical façade to the other. The space can hold up to 500 guests and is best suited to large-scale events and summer soirées.
Best for: discreet business lunches, cocktail parties
Capacity: 60, 300
You needn’t be a member to dine alfresco at Eight Club Moorgate’s restaurant or book a private outdoor area in the top-floor bar. Both have wraparound terraces with enviable City views. The restaurant, with its quiet feel and slick service, is ideal for discreet business lunches. For events, there’s a private rooftop terrace that can fit up to 60, or you can hire the entire top-floor space.
Best for: themed events, entertainment
Capacity: 400
If you’re after a versatile, eclectic venue for your next event, Egg London is just the ticket. Housed in a Victorian warehouse in Kings Cross, this London club has four outdoor areas, a 24-hour licence and plenty of entertainment options, from live music to crazy golf. With state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, it’s perfect for lively summer parties and themed events.
Best for: drinks receptions, landmark location
Capacity: 80
Even on the rooftop terrace, the tyre company’s iconic mascot is the star of the show at Michelin House’s London HQ. The listed art deco façade provides a handsome backdrop to a private drinks reception or press launch. Featuring wooden decking, art deco touches and contemporary furnishings, the outdoor space can accommodate up to 80 mingling guests.
Best for: barbecues, views
Capacity: 90
This Grade II-listed building features a range of spacious indoor event and meeting spaces. Come summertime though, its fifth-floor Rooftop Terrace provides an elegant spot for networking functions, product launches and cocktail receptions. With far-reaching views across London, wooden decking, barbecue stations and the latest AV equipment, the space is both stylish and practical.
Best for: intimate dinners, sophistication
Capacity: 40
Located in the chic and contemporary Marylebone Hotel, these newly redesigned event spaces have the look and feel of a private members’ club. For summer entertaining, The Courtyard is a 73sq m terrace encased in a garden wall with retractable roof, which provides the ideal tranquil setting for an intimate dinner (seating 24), press event or cocktail reception.
Best for: uninterrupted views, exclusive hire
Capacity: 200
This lofty South Bank venue at the top of the iconic Sea Containers building turned heads when it opened last year, with its 2,300sq m of event space and killer views. It has five event spaces with outdoor terraces, but our vote has to go to the Roof Terrace, where the 360-degree views get even better.
Summer party packages feature barbecue-style food and cooling punch cocktails.