Drinks Reception Venues for Hire in Central London

Booking costs of drinks reception venues average £1500 minimum spend per event. Costs vary depending on guest capacity, popularity, location, and amenities like sound systems or bar services. Extra charges may apply for custom catering, decor, or event planning services. Packages with add-ons, such as DJs, photo booths, or other entertainment services, can also increase the overall cost. Check out the typical price ranges in Central London, based on Tagvenue data:

Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated October 2026), the best options include:

• Basement Bar at The Oxford Market in Fitzrovia - rated 4.9/5
  Our user said: ‘On the actual night, the bar staff were very nice and made good drinks/cocktails.’

• Lounge Area at Lucy Wong in Fitzrovia - rated 4.9/5
  Our user said: ‘The area was perfect for the party, good seating and standing space! Food and drinks were also excellent.’

• Backstage at Eastcheap Records in Tower Hill - rated 4.9/5
  Our user said: ‘Cocktails and drinks were lovely and service was great.’

You'll find drinks reception venues in various sizes, from smaller spots to larger venues; keep in mind that the type of space and your chosen layout will affect the capacity! Below you can see the typical venue sizes in Central London, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (October 2026):

Based on Tagvenue data (as of October 2026), users looking for drinks reception venues most commonly go for these venue types:

Smaller drinks reception venues usually fit up to 60 guests standing. Here are some great options in Central London, based on Tagvenue data as of October 2026:

• Picante 60 guests at LOCKES Bar Covent Garden, rated 4.9/5 - event space for 60 guests
  Our user said: ‘We reserved space in LOCKES bar for a small family gathering.’

• Regent Room at The Prince Regent, rated 4.8/5 - function room for 50 guests
  Our user said: ‘The venue was superb for a small intimate group of 20 or less people. We were 11.’

• Private Lounge at Baaria, rated 4.9/5 - lounge for 30 guests
  Venue said: Ideal for: Small groups seeking an informal, social space for seated drinks and casual mingling. What guests say: The lounge is cosy and welcoming with attractive, characterful decor.

Cheap drinks reception venues in Central London start from £350 minimum spend per event or £125 hire fee per event. Check out these budget-friendly spaces you can book through Tagvenue, as of October 2026:

• Peony bar at Opium Chinatown, from £350 minimum spend per event (up to 30 guests standing)
  Our user said: ‘The minimum spend felt very reasonable and I was able to put money behind the bar.’

• Upstairs Private Room at The Chapel Market Tavern, from £125 hire fee per event (up to 70 guests standing)
  Our user said: ‘Very spacious, nice bar and good sound system - very affordable for the venue...’

• The Parlour room at The Old Bank of England, from £10 per person (up to 20 guests standing)
  Venue said: Venue highlights: The pub offers a central bar and flexible seating areas that can be arranged for receptions or seated dining. In-house catering and a full drinks list support menu-led events.