We're voting to give the age-old office party formula a snazzy makeover. There's no reason to stick to awkward small talk over punch and nibbles when the most exciting venues in the country are on our doorstep!
If you're looking to shake things up at your next office do, here are 8 of our favourite venues for getting people socialising. Whether it's a high-octane, activity-based event you're after, or something a little more refined (but certainly not retiring), you'll find the perfect place for it here!
1. The Little Scarlet Door
For a laid-back office do that's designed to bring teams together, The Little Scarlet Door offers a fantastic range of rooms to suit everyone's interests. From a beautifully-decorated open plan bar area complete with an extensive drinks menu, to a Basement Studio with a DJ booths, a Nintendo 64, and space to party the night away, there's no telling where the night will take you!
Treat guests to a tipple in the open plan living room and kitchen space, before getting them up and dancing downstairs with a DJ set - and don't forget to check out the courtyard and sample the squishy sofas. Whatever the order of the night, a sophisticated office party here is bound to impress!
Location: Soho
Capacity: 220 reception
2. 41 Portland Place
Situated in a beautiful Georgian townhouse in one of the grandest neighbourhoods in London, 41 Portland Place is the epitome of classic British elegance. Each of its rooms is adorned with period features and welcomes in buckets of natural light, making for a light and airy daytime party space, or a classic backdrop for a sophisticated evening soirée.
And with a private roof terrace offering a tranquil spot for al fresco dining or drinks, this venue has versatility on tap! Whatever the vibe of your event, 41 Portland Place ensures that every office party feels like a special occasion!
Location: Regent's Park
Capacity: 120 reception
3. Royal Horseguards Hotel
Overlooking the River Thames, the Royal Horseguards Hotel offers a luxurious setting for a really high-brow office celebration. From the grand ballroom to the intimate private dining rooms, the venue's opulent chandeliers, rich, red walls, and impeccable service make it a top choice for companies looking to treat their teams to a regal treat!
With gourmet dining options and a stunning view of the London Eye, a party here is sure to be an unforgettable experience. Plus, at just a trot away from Buckingham Palace, it's quite the postcode to put on your RSVPs!
Location: Embankment
Capacity: 350 reception; 170 dining
4. Museum of London
Speaking of making history, the Museum of London takes guests right to the centre of things, with an incredible display of artefacts and exhibitions telling the story of London's riotous past. You'll have no shortage of inspiration or fascinating finds in store for guests at this venue, with access to private tours of the museum's collections at your fingertips.
Ideal for either a sit down dinner or a lively reception, the Museum of London offers plenty of scope for personal touches, with the opportunity to bring in actors and performers, as well as ample space to dance the night away amongst the artefacts of the city's history. It's sure to be a night for the ages!
Location: City of London
Capacity: 1000 reception; 420 dining
5. RSA House
A historic venue with a modern twist, RSA House is a treasure trove of unique spaces. From the stunning Great Room with its iconic wall mural to the subterranean (and seriously atmospheric) Vaults, this venue offers a myriad of options for office parties.
Whether you're after a classy cocktail reception in the Benjamin Franklin Room, or to let your hair down with colleagues in the edgier underground spaces, RSA House is the perfect spot for bringing together teams for a stylish celebration.
Location: 220 reception; 130 dining
Capacity: Charing Cross
6. Bounce Battersea
For an office party that's both lively and interactive, brand new venue Bounce Battersea is the go-to destination! This vibrant venue, kitted out with its iconic ping pong tables, offers a unique blend of competition and camaraderie - whether colleagues are battling it out in a friendly tournament or simply enjoying the eclectic drinks menu at the bar, there's never a dull moment.
With a dedicated events team on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly, and a delicious food and drinks menu, Bounce Battersea guarantees an office party that's sure to get guests in the swing of socialising!
Location: Battersea
Capacity: 300 reception
7. The HAC
Nestled in the heart of the city, The HAC (Honourable Artillery Company) offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern elegance. The grandeur of the Armoury House, combined with state-of-the-art facilities, is equally suited to a formal dinner in the Long Room or a casual summer BBQ on the grounds, guaranteeing an office party that's both sophisticated and relaxed.
The venue boasts a sprawling lawn, providing a serene backdrop for any office gathering - and with easy public transport links, it's perfect for bringing guests from all over!
Location: Old Street
Capacity: 350 dining; 700 buffet
8. Trafalgar St James
Situated in just about the most iconic location on offer, the interior of the Trafalgar St James hotel easily lives up to its prestigious location. An office party here can take endless directions, with event spaces on offer to suit any size or style of party, including a part-covered rooftop terrace with a stunning outlook over London.
For smaller gatherings, Room's stunning glass walls and intimate table setting is a perfect spot for an office do exuding elegance and excellent food and drink. Have a bigger team to fit in? The glamorous Rockwell bar and lounge features comfortable seating amidst an exotic jungle aesthetic, making for a unique socialising space. It also has catering covered, with a cocktail menu, canapés, and bowl food at your fingertips to keep everyone happy!
Location: Trafalgar Square
Capacity: 110 dining; 200 standing
Why settle for satisfactory when your office party could take place in one of these sumptuous spaces? Whether it's activities you're looking for, or a setting with food and flair in abundance, the venues on this list are guaranteed to impress!
Haven't quite found what you're looking for? Check out some of our other top locations for an office party here, or get in touch to enquire about any of these office-ially outstanding venues today.
Author
Jessamy Cowie
Jessamy channels her passion for sustainability and cultural events into shining a spotlight on innovation and inspiration in the events world, and heading up Hire Space's sustainability committee.
