Struggling to weigh up throwing an amazing event while giving back to your community? Good news: by choosing a venue that supports social or charitable initiatives, you'll be able to do both!
Here are 10 of London's most iconic venues that aren't just prime locations for events but also champions of worthy causes - and by hiring them, you can be too!
1. BMA House
As well as being one of London's most impressive buildings, BMA House is home to the British Medical Association, which supports British doctors and medical research.
This Grade II listed building, with its elegant architecture and tranquil garden, is a fabulous spot for all kinds of events, and funds from events go back into keeping healthcare as strong as possible in Britain. And to top it all off, it's also one of the most sustainable venues in the city, with an ECOSmart Platinum award under its belt!
Location: Bloomsbury
Capacity: 300 theatre
2. The Roundhouse
The Roundhouse, an iconic former railway shed in Chalk Farm, isn't just an architectural marvel but a vibrant cultural hub, and a real nurturing ground for young talent, offering a wide range of creative programmes and workshops for young people, supported by income from events that take place at the venue.
The Roundhouse's unique circular design and colossal interior make it an ideal location for a wide range of events, so hosting an event here means not only enjoying a fantastically versatile space but also contributing to a great cause that supports youth and the arts!
Location: Chalk Farm
Capacity: 1800 standing
3. Conway Hall
Conway Hall, a Grade II listed building, is a landmark in the heart of London, and an equally important setting for the history books. Named in honour of Moncure Conway, an anti-slavery advocate, its events programme supports the Conway Hall Ethical Society, which is dedicated to curating and sharing ideas and people that make ethics matter in the world.
The Main Hall, known for its excellent acoustics, has hosted a variety of events, from fashion shows and art exhibitions to cinema screenings and TV filming, and its rich historical background makes it a unique and meaningful choice for hosting events!
Location: Holborn
Capacity: 400 theatre
4. The Barbican Centre
Known for its striking brutalist design, the Barbican Centre is Europe's largest performing arts centre, offering an exciting programme of art, music, theatre, dance, and film, that's supported by revenue from events.
The venue itself is a real icon on the London cultural scene, combining history, arts, and impressive design into one exciting concrete structure (with a tropical conservatory that boasts hundreds of rare species) that breathes history and creativity!
Location: Barbican
Capacity: 1943 theatre
5. Church House Westminster
Church House Westminster is more than just a stunning venue with breathtaking views of Dean's Yard and Westminster Abbey (although it is that too!). This Grade II listed building is steeped in history and is committed to a sustainable future, aiming to be net carbon-zero by 2030. Its commitment to environmental sustainability is reflected in every aspect of its operations.
By hosting an event at Church House Westminster, you're not only choosing a venue with historical grandeur and modern facilities but also supporting a venue that is actively working towards a better, more sustainable future.
Location: Westminster
Capacity: 664 theatre
6. Friends House
Friends House, the primary office of Quakers in Britain, offers a range of meeting rooms and event spaces, including the impressive auditorium, The Light.
Their principles of equality and peace are actively practiced in the operations and community involvement of Friends House. Hosting an event here means you're supporting social justice and community engagement, all within a space that's ideal for many types of events.
Location: Euston
Capacity: 1000 theatre
7. Buffini Chao Deck at The National Theatre
Situated on the roof of the National Theatre, the Buffini Chao Deck offers a stunning panoramic view of the Thames and the London skyline. But it's not just about its breathtaking views; it's a space that supports the arts through its association with the National Theatre.
By hosting an event here, you're not only enjoying a stylish and inspiring setting but also supporting the arts and the community that thrives around it. (Plus, the views!).
Location: Waterloo
Capacity: 200 standing
8. Rich Mix
Rich Mix is a charity and social enterprise, and it works to support emerging artists and diversity in the arts, which is always something to welcome with open arms.
The venue includes three boutique cinemas, which celebrate and support independent film, and really give a sense of the original leather factory that the venue was developed from. And, with an expansive main space for all sorts of parties, your event can bounce off this venue's creative and artistic energy.
Location: Shoreditch
Capacity: 400 standing
9. The Southbank Centre
The Southbank Centre - the iconic building with yellow stairs that's a symbol of London's innovation in the arts - is a charity that hosts everything from music concerts to literary festivals, as well as free workshops and youth clubs. With its huge range of fantastically creative and versatile spaces, it's a prime spot for a cultural event - and for giving back to the community.
Hosting an event at the Southbank Centre means celebrating and nurturing the arts, in a space that's as dynamic and inspiring as the city itself!
Location: Waterloo
Capacity: 2500 theatre
10. The Churchill War Rooms
The Churchill War Rooms are part of the Imperial War Museums, a leading authority on conflict and its impact, telling the stories of Britain's role in conflicts, from the First World War through to the present day, and keeping the memory of those who have served and sacrificed their lives in wars alive for future generations.
The Churchill War Rooms is the very site where Prime Minister Winston Churchill and his Cabinet led Britain in World War Two. Steeped in history, this venue is perfect for those who want an event with historical influence, and to keep educating future generations on the impact of war.
Location: Westminster
Capacity: 175 reception
If you're looking to host events that do good, as well as look good, these top 10 spots are ideal for giving back. Click 'enquire now' to find out about their availability for your next event, or check out more of our favourite spaces for events below!
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.
