There’s something about Clerkenwell. Watchmakers built this neighbourhood, now it runs on espresso and aperitivos. Private bars in Clerkenwell put you right in the middle of it, with hidden cocktail dens, low-lit lounges, and rooftop spots with atmosphere to spare around Exmouth Market, St John Street, and beyond. Whether it’s a small group or a full room, there’s a space that fits without forcing it. Even midweek, things don’t stay quiet for long, and the venues are set up to keep it that way. Start scrolling and lock in your date.
Booking costs of private bars average £1000 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 Clerkenwell, based on Tagvenue data:
| From £500 | to £2000 | minimum spend per event |
| From £850 | to £5500 | hire fee per day |
| From £20 | to £35 | per person |
Based on the popularity and user ratings on Tagvenue (updated September 2026), the best options include:
The Bar at The Clerkenwell Tavern
in Clerkenwell - rated 5/5
Our user said: ‘Loads of room, private bar and really friendly and helpful staff.’
Basement Bar at Coin Laundry
in Clerkenwell - rated 4.9/5
Our user said: ‘Awesome venue - great location (Exmouth Market), great downstairs basement bar with good airy feel to it.’
Private Room & Bar 1st Floor at Clerkenwell and Social
in Farringdon - rated 4.8/5
Our user said: ‘Super bar service, great cocktails, really friendly, efficient, nothing too much trouble.’
You'll find private bars 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 Clerkenwell, together with the standard prices in each size range, based on Tagvenue data (September 2026):
| Small | up to 50 guests | prices average £750 minimum spend per event |
| Medium | between 60 and 100 guests | prices average £800 minimum spend per event |
| Large | over 110 guests | prices average £2000 minimum spend per event |
Smaller private bars usually fit up to 50 guests standing. Here are some great options in Clerkenwell, based on Tagvenue data as of September 2026:
The Lounge at The Castle EC1, rated 4.8/5 - lounge for 50 guests
Our user said: ‘The Castle really accommodated us even when our plans changed and we were faced with needing a smaller space.’
The Games Room at The Zetter Clerkenwell, rated 4.8/5 - dining room for 50 guests
Our user said: ‘Wonderful venue - used it for a 50th birthday dinner and loved it.’
Wine Bar at Morchella - bar for 36 guests
Venue said: Guests can choose from an extensive curated wine list or enjoy a classic cocktail. We offer snacks, small plates, and desserts in the wine bar. We can tailor a menu to your budget and number of guests.
Cheap private bars in Clerkenwell start from £365 minimum spend per event or £15 per person. Check out these budget-friendly spaces you can book through Tagvenue, as of September 2026:
The Chocolate Cocktail Club at The Chocolate Cocktail Club, from £365 minimum spend per event
(up to 10 guests standing)
Venue said: We offer private hire of our Farringdon Venue on Tuesday evenings 6.30pm 10.30pm. 30 Seated / 10 standing. Up to a maximum of 40 guests We offer a menu of 20 chocolate cocktails, other drinks such as:...
Front Indoor Area at nécco, from £15 per person
(up to 50 guests standing)
Venue said: Ideal for: Birthday parties, casual celebrations, group dinners, drinks receptions and other social gatherings. What sets it apart: The bar and open layout allow guests to move easily between dining, drinks and informal mingling.
Coffee Shop at Rose & Rose, from £50 hire fee per hour
(up to 6 guests standing)
Venue said: Coffee shop with space for events for 20-30 people. Staff available for in house coffee and tea plus snacks and pastries.
In Clerkenwell, private bars are most commonly booked for 30 to 60 guests. Here are some popular kinds of events people have hosted at these spaces on Tagvenue, as of September 2026:
| Party | Usually between £700 and £2,500. |
User who booked Bar Room at The George & Monkey for 20 guests
said: ‘We also didnt have to pay any hire fee or minimum spend, just a refundable deposit.’ |
| Birthday Party | Usually between £600 and £2,600. |
User who booked Back Room at The George & Monkey for 20 guests
said: ‘Managers were helpful and professional! Loved the space and openness!’ |
| Meeting | Usually between £550 and £1,900. |
User who booked Exhibition Room at The Goldsmiths' Centre for 53 guests
said: ‘The hall was the perfect size and the restaurant was also great.’ |
| Private Dining | Usually between £1,000 and £3,100. |
User who booked The Dining Room at The Zetter Clerkenwell for 11 guests
said: ‘The room, atmosphere, location and the service was exceptional!’ |
| Engagement Party | Usually between £1,000 and £2,600. |
User who booked The Bar at The Clerkenwell Tavern for 50 guests
said: ‘Loads of room, private bar and really friendly and helpful staff.’ |
Page last updated in September 2026
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