Summer Party Venues in London

Summer Party Venues Hire Guide

Want to make the most of the English summer by soaking up the sun outdoors and creating fun memories with family and friends? Don’t sweat it! This year, you can beat the heat with our top tips and tricks for a summer party that steals the show. Summer party venues are one of best ways to welcome in the season! From laid-back movie nights under the stars to outdoor team-building activities, we have plenty of ideas for warm-weather entertaining and events.

Celebrating the sunshine and blue-sky days by hosting a chic summer party?

You’re in the right place – Tagvenue can’t wait to help you plan your ultimate outdoor fiesta. Whether you’re looking to hire a boat for an unforgettable cruise along the Thames or you need to find a pop-up space for a summer food truck festival, we’re here to lend a helping hand.

The summer is short, so you may as well take advantage of the season while you can. When it comes to choosing a venue, make sure to pick an outdoor space or somewhere with picture-perfect views that’ll provide a pretty backdrop for your event. And remember, the great British summer is a little unpredictable, so always make sure you have a plan B for wet weather.

Planning to take the party outside but aren’t quite sure where to start?

Al fresco entertaining is a whole lot easier with our smart venue search engine. Just let us know what you’re looking for and we’ll do the legwork for you. From stylish sky bars in central London where you can enjoy cocktails in the clouds, to laid-back beer gardens in Camden where the closing time is always late, we can recommend something to fit your individual requirements.

Perhaps you’re after a venue with indoor and outdoor spaces so guests can continue to celebrate well into the evening, even as the temperature outside begins to drop. Or maybe you’re on the hunt for an effortlessly glam rooftop space for the best sunset views the city has to offer. No matter what you’ve got in mind, getting your friends together for a no-stress summer shindig is a snap with Tagvenue’s expert venue recommendations.

When it comes to turning an outdoor space into a stylish spot for entertaining, don’t stress. Gorgeous scenery and beautiful natural landscapes mean that you can embrace a less-is-more approach when it comes to decorating. That being said, there’s a considerable amount of legwork and orchestration that goes into planning an al fresco celebration.

Planning ahead is a must whether you're organising a street party, stylish soiree or laid-back BBQ with mates, so book your summer party venue ahead of time, make sure the drinks are on ice and don’t forget your sunscreen. You can relax and soak up the sun while Tagvenue does the hard work for you.

Tips and tricks for an effortless summer party:

• Send out your save-the-dates ASAP as summer is the height of the travel season and many of your guests will be going away.

• Consider whether to provide a dress code (like smart casual, cocktail attire or shorts and flip-flops encouraged).

• Think about whether you’d like your event to be informal, as parties held in summer are usually more relaxed than events held at other times of the year.

• Decide whether you’d like to host a fun, themed event (fiesta, luau, beach party, pool party and Wimbledon tennis party are all popular options).

• Mix up your drink offerings by serving sangria, punch or boozy ice pops, or by filling colourful buckets with ice and assorted bottled drinks, so people can help themselves (and remember to take care of designated drivers and non-drinkers by serving some tasty non-alcoholic juices or mocktails as well).

• On warm days, opt for a simple fare – refreshing summer cocktails and bite-size appetisers, like smoked salmon crostini and mini sliders, are ideal (don’t forget that lighter, non-creamy food and drinks reduce the risk of spoilage).

• An umbrella provides shade and helps to define an outdoor dining area.

• Don’t use tablecloths if you think there’s going to be a breeze.

• Encourage guests to mingle by setting up drinks and dessert tables in separate areas.

• Beat the bugs by covering appetisers with pretty glass domes and cake stand covers, and by having mosquito repellent on hand for your guests.

When hiring a summer party venue, make sure to consider:

• Your budget (know where you can splash out and where you can make savings).

• The venue’s location (north, south, east or west London) and accessibility (on-site parking, public transport connections).

• Time of the event (do you need to plan it after the hottest part of the day so the sun won’t be so strong for your guests?).

• Lighting (decorative paper lanterns, solar-powered lights or strings of fairy lights all work well).

• Air-conditioning (if you’re planning an indoor event, be sure to consider your guests’ comfort).

• The sound system (prepare a playlist in advance (check out a summer party mix on YouTube if you’re short on ideas) and make sure the volume’s not too loud on the day).

• Entertainment options (don’t forget to speak to the venue manager about what you have in mind, whether it’s hiring a band or setting up a photo booth).

• The best time to set up (check whether it’s possible to set up in the morning or the night before when it’s cooler – the process will be faster and you won’t have to worry about heat exhaustion).

• Check if there are any cancellation fees.

Summer party mistakes to avoid:

• Leaving food out in the sun (food safety should be a key consideration when the weather is warm).

• Not providing enough shade.

• Serving more alcohol than water (be sure to offer water and other non-alcoholic beverages throughout the event, so guests don’t get dehydrated).

• Leaving flowers in the sun for too long (if you’re worried about wilting centrepieces, choose hardy summer flowers that will last for the duration of the event).

• Not having a contingency plan for bad weather.

Top 10 Themes for your London's Summer Party 

Here are some exciting themes that can be adapted to various venues across this vibrant city, ensuring your event is not just a gathering but an unforgettable experience.

1. Picnic on the Thames: Transport your guests to a riverside retreat with a picnic-themed party along the Thames. Think picnic baskets filled with gourmet treats, chequered blankets, and a selection of fine wines and cheeses. Include entertainment like live acoustic music to create a laid-back atmosphere with iconic London landmarks as your backdrop.
2. Rooftop Beer Festival: Elevate the classic beer party by hosting it on one of London's many rooftops. Offer a selection of craft beers from local London breweries paired with artisanal snacks. String lights, communal tables, and live bands playing upbeat tunes can create a lively festival vibe, all while guests enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline.
3. Vintage Garden Tea Party: Channel the elegance and charm of the old-school era with a vintage garden tea party. Select a garden venue in places like Mayfair or Kensington and decorate with antique teacups, lace tablecloths, and floral arrangements. Make a traditional British tea menu featuring scones, clotted cream, and an assortment of teas. Encourage guests to dress in vintage clothes to add to the ambience.
4. Carnival in the City: Bring the fun and excitement of a carnival to London. Utilise a spacious venue to set up carnival games, a merry-go-round, and food stalls serving classic carnival fare like popcorn, candy floss, and hot dogs. Hire performers such as jugglers, magicians, and face painters to entertain guests of all ages.
5. London's Secret Garden Party: Create an enchanting evening with a secret garden theme. Choose a really nice location and transform it with fairy lights, lanterns, and abundant flowers and greenery. A live string quartet and a menu featuring fresh, seasonal dishes can enhance the mystical garden experience.
6. British Beach Party: Who says you can't have a beach party in the city? Find a venue with outdoor space and bring in sand, beach chairs, and palm trees to recreate a seaside atmosphere. To complete the theme, offer summery cocktails, beach games like volleyball and frisbee, and a seafood-centric menu.
7. Retro Disco on the Dockside: Turn a dockside venue into a vintage party spot complete with a glittering disco ball, vibrant dance floor, and DJs spinning classic hits from the '70s and '80s. Encourage guests to dress in their best retro outfits and serve cocktails inspired by the era.
8. Shakespearean Midsummer Night's Dream: Embrace the rich history of London by hosting a Shakespearean-themed party. Opt for an outdoor venue with natural beauty and decorate with ethereal and romantic elements inspired by "A Midsummer Night's Dream." Performers reciting Shakespearean sonnets and actors in costume can add to the immersive experience.
9. British Picnic at the Park: Host a British picnic in one of London's iconic parks, like Hyde Park or Regent's Park, for a laid-back afternoon. Provide picnic hampers filled with British classics like pork pies, Scotch eggs, and Pimm's for a quintessentially British affair.
10. High Society Cocktail Soirée: Capture the sophistication of London's high society with a cocktail soirée. Choose an elegant venue and dress it up with chic decor. Offer a menu of expertly crafted cocktails, a live jazz band, and a dress code that encourages guests to don their most glamorous attire.

By selecting one of these themes for your summer party in London, you'll not only provide your guests with a memorable experience but also take full advantage of London's unique settings and vibrant culture.

Different types of venues you can book for your summer party in London

Summer in London opens up a world of possibilities for those looking to celebrate under the sun and stars. From lush garden parties to chic rooftop gatherings, the city's mix of venues ensures your summer event will be memorable and magical. Here, we explore different types of venues  for your London summer party, ensuring every detail contributes to an unforgettable experience.

1. Rooftop Celebrations: Imagine sipping cocktails as the sun sets over the London skyline. Rooftop venues in areas like Shoreditch or Southbank offer breathtaking views and a cool, urban vibe. They're perfect for corporate summer parties or glamorous birthday bashes. Look for spaces with built-in bars and comfortable seating to ensure your guests can relax and mingle in style.
2. Garden Party Venues: London's garden venues provide a serene and scenic setting if you prefer the tranquillity of nature. Book a charming garden in Mayfair or a spacious lawn in Richmond for your next afternoon tea, wedding reception, or family picnic. With their blooming flowers and manicured hedges, these venues offer a breath of fresh air in the bustling city.
3. Historical Venues: London's history is rich and varied, offering a unique dimension to your summer party. Historical venues, from grand mansions in Hampstead to ancient halls in the city centre, add a touch of elegance and intrigue. They're perfect for themed gatherings, gala dinners, or any event where the ambience is key.
4. Riverside venues: Celebrate on the move by hosting your party on one of London's famed riverboats. Glide past the city's most famous landmarks, from the Houses of Parliament to the Shard, while enjoying a dynamic and refreshing setting. These party boats cater to various events, from intimate dinners to lively celebrations, offering indoor and outdoor spaces for guests to explore.
5. Artsy Lofts: For a modern and versatile setting, consider an industrial loft in an area known for its creative spirit, like Hackney or Camden. With their open layouts and urban aesthetics, these spaces serve as a blank canvas for any event, from art exhibitions to modern weddings. Their adaptability allows for complete customization, ensuring your party reflects your style.

FAQs about Summer Party Venues in London

How far ahead of time should I book a summer party venue?

When booking a venue for a summer party, you should definitely try to secure your booking as soon as possible. It is quite common for people to search and book their favourites up to 6 months in advance. You will be able to secure venues at the last minute, but if you want to have a good range to choose from our advice is to start early.

What are some unusual summer party venues in London?

Choose among some of London’s most unusual venues for your next summer party. Enjoy the open air and savour the day as you party in style.

• Absolute Pleasure Yacht – Enjoy the open sea air as you take your party on the water. What better way to enjoy the summer breeze than on the deck of a trusty sailing vessel?
• Fulham Beach Club – Full Venue at Neverland – Book this beachy venue along the Thames and wow you friends with drinks and a party on the sand.
• The Whitecross Tap – Enjoy an intimate gathering in the open air at this beloved pub near Old Street Station.

Can I have a summer party even if it is rainy?

While outdoor venues rely on sunny skies and warm weather, they are well aware that every day in London carries a chance of rain. Many venues offer the option to hire a marquee tent or even move the party inside. Discuss the question with the venue manager and draw up contingency plans before finalising your booking.

What are some creative ways to cater a summer party?

Summer parties are a great opportunity to serve smaller snacks and cool drinks. If your party is going to be outside, consider hiring a few food trucks and having a bar stocked with cold drinks, like tacos and mini margs. Food trucks are not suitable if your party will be on a rooftop, but many of these establishments will have other catering options available.