Best Christmas Party Venues in London: Celebrate in Style
London is known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere, especially during the festive season. From traditional hotel ballrooms to trendy bars and clubs, the city offers a wide range of venues to host the best Christmas parties. Whether you’re planning a corporate event or a gathering with family and friends, finding the perfect venue can be a daunting task. But fear not! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best Christmas party venues in London, along with some unique ideas to make your celebration truly unforgettable.
Planning Your Christmas Party in London: Tips and Tricks
Before we dive into the top venues, let’s go over some essential tips and tricks to help you plan the perfect Christmas party in London. These pointers will ensure that you stay on track and make the most of your celebration:
1. Start Early and Secure Your Venue
The lead-up to Christmas is a busy time, and popular party venues in London book out fast. To avoid disappointment, start planning and searching for your venue well in advance. Aim to secure your space as soon as possible, ideally by October, to ensure availability for your desired date.
2. Consider Your Budget and Guest List
Before choosing a venue, it’s crucial to determine your budget and the number of guests you expect to attend. This will help you narrow down your options and find a venue that can accommodate your needs. Whether you’re looking for a cheap Christmas party venue or a more upscale experience, London offers a variety of options to fit every budget.
3. Think About the Atmosphere You Want to Create
Consider the type of atmosphere you want to create for your Christmas party. Do you envision a casual gathering at a local restaurant or pub or a more upscale affair at a wine bar or private members’ club? The ambiance of the venue will set the tone for your event, so choose a space that aligns with your vision.
4. Plan Entertainment and Additional Activities
While the venue itself plays a significant role in creating a memorable Christmas party, don’t forget to plan for entertainment and additional activities. Whether it’s hiring a DJ, setting up a photo booth, or organizing fun Christmas games, these elements will keep your guests engaged and ensure a lively atmosphere.
5. Explore Shared Christmas Party Options
If you’re concerned about the cost of an exclusive Christmas party package, consider hosting a shared party in London. This concept has grown in popularity, allowing smaller firms to share costs and host more extravagant events at exclusive venues that would otherwise be out of reach. Shared parties also provide an opportunity for collaboration and networking with other companies.
The Best Christmas Party Venues in London
Now that you have some valuable tips for planning your Christmas party, let’s explore the top venues in London that will make your celebration truly unforgettable. From unique and themed spaces to classic and elegant settings, these venues offer something for everyone:
1. Barbican Conservatory: A Festive Garden Party
Location: EC2Y 8DS
Capacity: 150-650
Price Range: Standing from £99 + VAT, seated from £125 + VAT
If you’re looking for a sustainable and alternative venue for your Christmas party, the Barbican Conservatory is the perfect choice. This City venue offers a carnival-inspired celebration with a garden party feel. From street food stalls to tropical fish ponds, the venue creates a festive atmosphere that will impress your guests. Packages include welcome cocktails, a DJ, unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks, as well as carnival snacks and food stations.
2. Museum of London: History and Festivities
Location: EC2Y 5HN
Capacity: Seated – 250-400, Standing – 400-1000
Price Range: From £125 per head + VAT for seated, £72 + VAT per head for standing
Located near major transport links, the Museum of London offers a dramatic backdrop for your Christmas party. This year, the venue celebrates the capital and its people, inviting guests to explore London’s history as they toast the occasion. Enjoy drinks on arrival in the entrance hall bar, explore the 17th-century pleasure gardens and Victorian walk, and indulge in a delicious dinner in the Sackler Hall. Packages include unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, ensuring a festive and enjoyable evening.
3. Between the Bridges: Street Food Extravaganza
Location: SE1
Capacity: Up to 2000
Price Range: Starting from £15,000 minimum spend
Between the Bridges offers a unique and vibrant space for your Christmas party. With six bars and eight street food traders, the venue creates a lively atmosphere that will impress your guests. Located next to the London Eye, this riverside venue is easily accessible and offers stunning views of the city. The flexible space can accommodate both small and large groups, making it a versatile option for any Christmas celebration.
4. Swingers: Golf and Festive Fun
Location: Various locations in London
Capacity: 500
Price Range: From £32 + VAT per head
For a fun and interactive Christmas party experience, look no further than Swingers. With two exciting locations in the City and West End, Swingers offers two nine-hole crazy golf courses, street food stalls, and cocktail bars. This unique event space guarantees a party to remember, with a dedicated event manager and premium drinks packages included. Get ready to swing into the festive season with Swingers!
5. Bounce: Ping Pong Extravaganza
Location: EC1N 2TD (Farringdon), EC1V 9EY (Old Street)
Capacity: Farringdon – 120, Old Street – 100-550
Price Range: From £6,000 + VAT minimum spend
If you’re looking for a venue that combines entertainment and fun, Bounce is the perfect choice. Known as the home of ping pong, Bounce offers two locations with a total of 17 ping pong tables, open-counter pizza restaurants, and private event rooms. Whether you’re planning a corporate event or a gathering with friends, Bounce guarantees a lively and enjoyable Christmas party experience.
Unique Christmas Party Ideas in London
Now that we’ve explored some of the best venues in London, let’s delve into some unique Christmas party ideas to make your celebration truly memorable. These ideas will add a special touch to your event and create a festive atmosphere that your guests will love:
1. Christmas Craft Party
Embrace the spirit of the season by hosting a Christmas craft party. Set up DIY decoration stations where guests can create their own festive ornaments and hand-sewn Christmas stockings. Provide a variety of craft materials and let your guests unleash their creativity. This interactive activity will not only entertain your guests but also give them a personalized keepsake to take home.
2. Gingerbread House Decorating
Tap into your guests’ sweet tooth by organizing a gingerbread house decorating competition. Provide pre-assembled gingerbread houses, icing, and an array of colorful candies. Split your guests into teams and let them unleash their creativity as they decorate their houses. Award prizes for the most creative, best-decorated, and most festive gingerbread houses. This activity is sure to bring out the competitive spirit and create a fun and festive atmosphere.
3. Christmas Dinner and Dance Party
Combine a delicious festive feast with a lively dance party for the ultimate Christmas celebration. Start the evening with a seated dinner, featuring traditional Christmas dishes and festive cocktails. After dinner, clear the tables and transform the space into a dance floor. Hire a DJ or a live band to keep the party going and encourage your guests to hit the dance floor. This idea is perfect for those who want to combine a formal dinner with a fun and energetic party atmosphere.
4. Christmas Movie Night
Create a cozy and intimate atmosphere by hosting a Christmas movie night. Set up a large screen and comfortable seating, complete with blankets and pillows. Create a festive movie playlist featuring classic Christmas films and provide popcorn, hot cocoa, and other movie snacks. This relaxed and low-key party idea is perfect for those who prefer a more laid-back celebration.
Christmas Party Packages in London
To make your Christmas party planning even easier, many venues in London offer Christmas party packages. These packages often include a variety of services and amenities, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience. Here are some popular Christmas party packages offered by London venues:
1. All Stars London
All Stars London offers a range of Christmas party packages to suit any budget and group size. Their packages include room hire, festive decorations, a dedicated event manager, a DJ, a dance floor, and a variety of food and drink options. From canapes and bowl food to seated dinners, All Stars London has something to satisfy every palate.
2. London Dolls
London Dolls is known for its glamorous and luxurious Christmas party packages. Their packages include exclusive venue hire, a red carpet entrance, welcome drinks, a four-course dinner, and entertainment options such as magicians and live bands. London Dolls offers a VIP experience for your guests, ensuring an unforgettable Christmas celebration.
Conclusion
London offers a plethora of options when it comes to Christmas party venues and ideas. From unique and themed spaces to classic and elegant settings, there is something to suit every taste and budget. With careful planning and creative thinking, you can create a Christmas party that will be remembered for years to come. So start early, secure your venue, and let the festivities begin! Whether you choose a carnival-inspired celebration at the Barbican Conservatory or a classic Christmas dinner and dance party, London has it all. So gather your colleagues, friends, and family, and celebrate the most wonderful time of the year in style at one of the best Christmas party venues in London.
