We all know that London is one of the best cities in the world.
Not only is the capital steeped in history and home to a melting pot of cultures, it’s also crawling with hireable secret spaces and underground venues – you just need to be in the know. Luckily for you we’ve rounded up a list of seven awesome hidden gems that are guaranteed to impress the guests at your next corporate event – no matter what the occasion.
1) Napolean Cellar, Berry Bros. & Rudd, Mayfair
Perhaps your boss is a wannabe wine buff, or maybe you’ve noticed your client has a particular penchant for vintage chateauneuf du pape? Possibly you’re just searching for a venue that is as rich and full bodied in history as the drinks on its wine list? Whatever the reason, we think the cellars beneath the infamous wine shop, Berry Bros. & Rudd are just the ticket when an unique, historical and sophisticated space is needed.
The cellars date from the early 18th century and were once used by Napoleon himself for clandestine meetings. Nowadays the space seamlessly combines the old with the new, state-of-the-art audio-visual facilities are discreetly hidden amongst the venue’s historic original features.
With capacity for stand-up receptions of 100, sit down dinners for up to 70 and a heap of hospitality packages available, we say this is the ideal venue for when you want to throw a sophisticated, smart and stress-free event.
2) The Vault at Milroy’s, Soho
Possibly one of the worst kept secrets in the industry is the impossibly cool speakeasy that lies beneath London’s oldest whiskey shop. The Vault at Milroy’s, is an intimate, stripped-back but sexy sort of place. Think low level lighting, scrubbed wooden tables and chesterfield sofas. The location is pretty hard to beat, the venue is located just off Soho Square and can only be accessed via a secret door concealed in a bookcase – a definite talking point to break the ice!
With room to accommodate up to 40 people and a late license till 2am, we think this central soho speakeasy is the perfect place for laid-back corporates who want to channel their inner Don Draper.
If you want a slice of old school glamour, on the fringes of Shoreditch then look no further than the incredibly slick subterranean bar and live music venue, Nightjar. Normally to get into this place, even just for a few hours, a booking needs to be made at least two months before – well it is one of the world’s best bars!
Thankfully though, this 1920s New York feeling spot is available for private hire but must be done so well in advance. We say, if you’re going to choose this awesome venue as the space for your corporate event, go big or go home, as what they have to offer will make your event a real showstopper! Why not make use of their world renowned bar staff and treat clients to a night of networking over killer cocktails. Or tap into the venue’s impeccable directory of exceptional live music? Whether it’s sophistication, vintage glamour, or creativity that you’re after this place has got you covered.
4) Keystone Crescent, Kings Cross
Kings Cross used to be a wasteland of mega-chains and transport interchanges. Thankfully due to extensive rejuvenation and investment the area is now awash with fashionable restaurants, boutique hotels and trendy bars. It also happens to be home to probably one of the coolest member’s bars in London, Keystone Crescent. Sure it’s members, but the venue has several bookable areas and does offer private hire.
The decor and vibe has a 1970s air to it but the service is anything but. The event and bar staff here really are the best and if you plan to make use of the venues super late license, some of your guests will probably be best mates with the staff by 4am closing.
With such great transport links and thankfully now great local amenities, we think this really is a great choice for entertaining clients and colleagues who are out-of-towners.
5) The Blind Spot, Covent Garden
Truly not many people know about this one but some secrets are worth spilling. The Blind Spot is an opulent space located in the slick, central London 5 star St Martin’s Lane hotel. Set behind the façade of a boutique tea counter, guests need to shake a golden hand to be permitted access to this hidden gem. The space is ideal for receptions and parties for up to 120 guests,it’s perfectly shadowed by day and illuminated by the energy of the city at night, making it the ultimate day-to-night venue.
Clients hiring this space can be confident in the knowledge that the service they receive will be exceptional thanks to the hotel’s credentials. And as if that wasn’t enough, clients can even take advantage of the hotel’s expert mixologists. So why not create some signature drinks to truly impress?
6) Viñoly Room, Fenchurch Restaurant, The City
Bucking the trend of being located on some subterranean level, The Viñoly Room is an elegant private dining room which can be found on the 37th floor of the walkie talkie building (20 Fenchurch Street). Boasting some of the most breathtaking views of London, this space can seat up to 16 people. The room has the flexibility to host a range of small events, however if you’re considering hiring this venue, you really ought to make the most of out the dining services which come courtesy of acclaimed restaurant this room is located discreetly within.
The cherry on this hidden gems cake? The Fenchurch Restaurant is one of three restaurants housed within the famous Sky Garden. Not only will you be you be treating your guests to an exquisite dining experience and spectacular views, they will also be able to wander amongst the striking landscaped public gardens.
Culture vultures will love this one. Housed within one of the capital’s most loved arts venues,the spectacular Conservatory at the Barbican, is a hidden green oasis in the heart of the city.Home to over 2,000 tropical species of plants & trees, the space truly does bring the outside, inside thanks to it’s glass roof. Up to 150 guests can enjoy this urban oasis and there is the option to hire additional spaces within the Barbican Centre for greater flexibility. So don’t miss out and book up to avoid being green eyed with jealousy.
Want more inspiration? Why not check out our round-up of that you can book online with us today: Undiscovered Spaces
