Underground Venues for Hire in London

Here at Tagvenue, we’re experts when it comes to the London’s secret places and hidden corners. That’s why our round-up of the city’s top underground spaces is the perfect place to start your venue search. So what are you waiting for? Check out our fave underground venues today – you never know what you’ll unearth!

Top Underground Locations In London

1. The Mezzanine at Draughts Waterloo - Located beneath Waterloo Station, this venue is a labyrinth of artistic spaces. Known for its edgy performances and immersive experiences, it's an excellent spot for avant-garde events and creative showcases.
2. Cahoots, Soho - Step back in time in this 1940s-themed underground bar. With its vintage train carriage seating and wartime memorabilia, Cahoots provides a captivating backdrop for themed parties and nostalgic celebrations.
3. The Crypt, Clerkenwell - With a unique blend of history and mystique, the Crypt beneath St. James Church in Clerkenwell is perfect for weddings, wine tastings, and gala dinners. Its ancient architecture and atmospheric lighting add a touch of solemnity and grandeur to any event.
4. Nordic Bar, Fitzrovia - Dive into London's cool and quirky underground scene at the Nordic Bar. With a Scandinavian-themed interior and a selection of Nordic beers, spirits, and cocktails, it's a great spot for themed events, birthday parties, and corporate functions that stand out.
5. Fabric, Farringdon - A cornerstone of London's nightlife, Fabric's cavernous rooms and advanced sound system make it a prime location for music events, product launches, and corporate parties seeking a fun atmosphere.

Top Tips for Planning an Event in an Underground Venue

1. Check Transport Links to Venue - Ensure the venue is convenient for all guests, including those with mobility challenges. Look at spaces near public transportation and parking facilities.
2. Assess the Acoustics - Underground spaces can have unique audio characteristics. Visit the venue beforehand to understand its sound qualities and plan your audio equipment accordingly.
3. Consider Ventilation - Good airflow is crucial in enclosed spaces. Verify the venue's ventilation system to keep your guests comfortable throughout the event.
4. Illuminate Creatively - Lighting plays a key role in setting the mood. Use a mix of ambient, accent, and task lighting to highlight architectural features and create a welcoming environment.
5. Leverage the Venue's Unique Features - Embrace the distinct character of your chosen underground space. Whether it's historical elements or modern installations, these features can serve as a conversation starter and enhance the overall experience.

Event Ideas Perfect For Secret Venues In London

1. Speakeasy Night: Capitalise on the clandestine nature of your venue with a prohibition-era-themed event. Encourage guests to dress in 1920s attire and serve classic cocktails for a night of glamour and secrecy.
2. Gothic Gala: Use the atmospheric settings of vaulted venues or bunkers for a gothic-themed party. Think candlelight, velvet drapes, and a soundtrack of haunting melodies to set the tone.
3. Underground Film Festival: Transform an underground bunker into a cinema for a night. Focus on indie or historical films that match the venue's unique vibe. Provide comfy seating and artisan snacks for a memorable experience.
4. Retro Video Game Tournament: A cellar bar's quirky and intimate setting can be the perfect spot for a nostalgic video game tournament. Set up stations with classic consoles and games for a competitive yet fun event.
5. Secret Supper Club: Turn a catacomb cafe or vaulted venue into a mysterious dining experience. Keep the menu and location a secret until the last moment, adding an element of surprise that will intrigue your guests and make the event even more thrilling.

Popular Areas For London Underground Venues

• Underground venues are especially popular in areas known for nightlife and creativity. Vauxhall is a major hotspot, home to venues like Vauxhall Arches, attracting large 20s-30s crowds for late-night parties and music events.
• Shoreditch and Dalston are favourites among younger, trendier groups (20s–early 30s), perfect for indie gigs and private parties — spaces like Old Street Records and Moustache Bar Dalston are great examples.
• Soho and Covent Garden attract a more mixed crowd, including professionals and tourists, ideal for after-work drinks and intimate celebrations at places like Beasy Soho.
• Meanwhile, areas like Bermondsey and Fitzrovia have smaller, sophisticated underground spots for wine tastings or cocktail parties, drawing the 30s–40s demographic.

Common Types Of Underground Spaces In Ldn

London's underground venues come in a few main types, each offering a unique atmosphere:

• Basement event spaces: These are usually raw, flexible areas, great for music nights, pop-ups, or private parties. Hoxton Cabin in Hackney is a brilliant, affordable choice, offering a relaxed, creative vibe perfect for casual events.
• Vault venues: Historic brick vaults and arches were originally designed for storage but have been transformed into stunning spaces. Vauxhall Arches is one of the best examples — a huge multi-room venue that mixes gritty, atmospheric vaults with modern lighting and sound, perfect for large club nights and immersive experiences.
• Speakeasy-style venues: Inspired by the hidden bars of Prohibition-era America, these venues are all about secrecy and luxury. Cache Cache Speakeasy in Covent Garden is a standout, offering plush interiors, creative cocktails, and an exclusive feel. Perfect for stylish private parties or sophisticated networking events.