Book Outdoor Venues in London

1) Finding Your Perfect Fit: London's Outdoor Venues

The first topic you want to nail down is which is the right style of outdoor event space in London for you. So with that in mind, here is the cream of the crop: 

1. Royal Gardens: Want to host your event in the midst of regal beauty? London's royal parks, like Hyde Park and Kensington Gardens, boast expansive green lawns, serene lakes, and iconic monuments. These venues are perfect for a touch of classic elegance. Imagine sipping tea at an afternoon garden party or hosting a lively picnic surrounded by lush trees.

2. Riverside Bliss: The banks of the River Thames provide an enchanting backdrop for any event. You can opt for modern terraces with sleek lines and panoramic river views or embrace the historic charm of old riverside warehouses. Picture a sunset cocktail reception with the London skyline as your canvas – it's the city at its finest.

3. Historic Courtyards: London's history whispers through its cobblestone streets and hidden courtyards. These venues transport you to another era with their charming architecture and vintage vibes. Think about sipping cocktails amidst centuries-old brick walls and ivy-covered arches. It's a dash of old-world enchantment right in the heart of the city.

4. Rooftop Retreats: For a taste of the high life, London's rooftop venues offer a modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere. These chic spaces often feature sleek designs, contemporary furnishings, and breathtaking skyline views. Whether you're planning a corporate soirée or a rooftop garden party, these venues elevate your event – both literally and figuratively.

6. Quaint Village Greens: Just a short journey from the bustling city centre, you'll stumble upon London's charming villages. These quaint settings offer a relaxed and picturesque backdrop for your event. Imagine a summer fête on a village green, complete with traditional stalls and a brass band – it's London's countryside charm right at your doorstep.

7. Stately Courtyards: London's grand old buildings often hide hidden gems within their walls – magnificent courtyards. These spaces are a blend of history and luxury, with soaring pillars, with ornate detailing, and an air of sophistication. Ideal for upscale gatherings or intimate soirées, they evoke the grandeur of a bygone era.

• And if this has tickled your fancy, come and see our guide to the best courtyard venues in London. 

2) The Best Areas for Hosting an Outdoor Event in London

Now, seeing as your venue is outdoors, the area you’re in will be part of the scenery, so make sure you choose the right one for your outdoor party in London. Namely, of these neighbourhoods! 

1. Central London: Central London is a hub of activity, offering a wide range of options for private outdoor events. The area's historical significance and iconic landmarks provide a unique backdrop for gatherings. Whether you're hosting a corporate function, cultural event, or reception, the central location ensures easy access and a vibrant atmosphere.
2. South Bank: The South Bank of the River Thames is known for its trendy outdoor event spaces. With stunning views of the river and the London skyline, it's a top choice for gatherings with a modern and artistic flair. You'll find a variety of terraces and open areas that are perfect for cocktail parties, product launches, and more.
3. West London: West London combines upscale venues with green havens. It's an ideal choice for outdoor events that require an elegant touch. The area is dotted with Victorian and Georgian architecture, offering a picturesque setting for garden parties, weddings, and ceremonies.
4. East London: East London embodies creativity and trendiness, making it a popular choice for unique outdoor events. Venues here often have a modern, urban vibe with a touch of quirkiness. This area is a great fit for hipster-style events, product launches, and exhibitions, especially for those looking to embrace the city's artistic spirit.
5. Greenwich: Greenwich, in South-East London, offers a mix of historic and contemporary outdoor event venues. It's known for its stunning riverside views and serene atmosphere. Greenwich Park, in particular, provides a peaceful and scenic setting. This area is well-suited for weddings, festivals, and cultural events, offering a sense of history and natural beauty.

P.S. You can learn more about London's outstanding areas for events in this ultimate guide.  

3) What's the Cost of Renting an Outdoor Venue in London?

Okay, the next thing you’ll want to think about is how much your outdoor space for hire will cost you. So here are some budget estimates: 

• Budget Venues: These are typically basic outdoor spaces or smaller gardens. A half-day rental costs around £100 to £500.
• Mid-Range Venues: For more spacious and well-equipped outdoor settings in central locations, you can expect to pay between £500 to £1,500 for a half-day rental.
• Luxury Venues: High-end outdoor venues with premium amenities and stunning landscapes can range from £1,500 to £5,000 or more for a half-day rental.

Additional costs to consider when hosting an outdoor event in London:

• Catering
• Equipment Rental
• Entertainment 
• Transportation
• Decor and Theming
• Contingency

Bonus Advice: This section reminds us of an important question: is dry-hire the cheapest option in London? 

4) The Best Catering for Your Outdoor Space in London

Everyone loves to eat, so don’t let your attendees down. Choose one of these awesome event caterers for your outdoor venue for hire in London: 

1. "Rocket Food": Known for its creative and bespoke catering, Rocket Food offers a range of culinary options from traditional to contemporary. They specialise in high-end events and can curate menus tailored to your outdoor event's theme and preferences.
2. "The Admirable Crichton": With a reputation for luxury catering, The Admirable Crichton can transform your outdoor event into a culinary masterpiece. Their team of chefs creates innovative menus that combine high-quality ingredients with artistic presentation.
3. "Create Food": Create Food is known for its sustainable and seasonal approach to catering. It offers diverse menus inspired by international cuisines and has experience catering for a wide range of outdoor events, from weddings to corporate gatherings.
4. "By Word of Mouth": By Word of Mouth has a long history of providing exceptional catering services in London. They can work closely with you to design a menu that matches your outdoor event's style and atmosphere.
5. "Clerkenwell Green": Clerkenwell Green is a versatile catering company that can adapt to different outdoor event settings. They focus on using locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to create fresh and flavorful dishes.

N.B. Why not take your catering to the next level by booking one of these unique venues for business lunches in London? 

5) What Weather to Expect for Your Outdoor Venue in London

Now, you’ve probably heard the rumours about the famous weather in the UK. However, we’re here to tell you that it’s actually quite lovely and that your outdoor event in London will be just fine. Here’s a round-up of what you can expect throughout the year: 

Spring (March to May):

• Temperatures: Spring in London is cool but gradually warms up. Daytime temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
• Precipitation: Rainfall is common, so be prepared for occasional showers. It's a good idea to have shelter options or a backup plan in case of rain.

Summer (June to August):

• Temperatures: Summers in London are pleasantly warm, with daytime temperatures averaging 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Precipitation: While summers are generally drier, rain can still occur. It's advisable to have shade options for guests, as well as hydration stations.

Autumn (September to November):

• Temperatures: Autumn sees a gradual cooling, with daytime temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
• Precipitation: Rainfall increases in the fall, so having waterproof coverings or tents is essential.

Winter (December to February):

• Temperatures: Winters in London are cold, with daytime temperatures ranging from 2°C to 8°C (36°F to 46°F).
• Precipitation: London experiences occasional snowfall, but it's relatively rare. Expect more rain during this season.

To prepare for the unpredictable weather, consider the following:

• Tents and Canopies: Embrace the versatility of coverings such as tents or canopies, offering refuge from sudden downpours or scorching sun rays.
• Heating: As the temperatures dip during cooler months, consider including outdoor heaters to ensure your guests remain snug and content.
• Cooling Systems: Combat the sweltering heat of summer days with cooling systems like fans or misters, ensuring a refreshing and comfortable atmosphere for your attendees.
• Backup Plans: Remain resilient in the face of extreme weather conditions by always having a backup indoor location on standby, providing peace of mind and continuity for your event.

6) The Best Vendors for Your Outdoor Event Space in London

And finally, as a parting gift, check out these amazing vendors for an outdoor party in London! 

• Crate Events: Known for creative event solutions.
• Velvet Living: Specialises in luxury event furniture and styling.
• Stunning Tents: Provides unique tipis and tents for outdoor events.
• GDC Events: Offers full-service event production.
• Mahood Marquees: Provides high-quality marquees and tents.
• The Event Hire Company: Offers comprehensive event equipment and furniture.
• Hawthorn: Provides technical event production, lighting, and AV solutions.
• Velvet Entertainment: Specialises in live entertainment and production.
• Pandora Events: Offers event planning and design services.
• Vibration Group: A creative event agency with expertise in stage design and production.

Wrapping up 

And with that, you’re ready to host the greatest outdoor event in London for a generation! 

The next step is super easy too. Just use our Ask an Expert facility - you just tell our local experts what you want and they get to work making it happen!