It might be hard to admit, but finding a summer party venue whilst relying on the British weather is often a risky business. A foolproof plan is to find a venue which can accommodate you for those bursts of sunshine, but equally provide you with inviting indoor setting for when the heavens open.
Perfect for large drinks receptions to more intimate gatherings, take a look at these top rain-safe venues for the summer party season.
Borough Market
Borough Market is London’s oldest and most renowned food market, a source of exceptional British and international produce. It’s not just the sheer quality of the food on offer that makes Borough Market special – it’s also about the place.
Conveniently located next to London Bridge station, the Market itself is available for hire, with Three Crown Square offering a flexible, sheltered outdoor space for parties up to 350 people. Also consider Market Hall, a striking modern glass structure which provides a contemporary backdrop for drinks receptions.
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Blue Fin Venue
The award-winning Blue Fin Building takes a prominent position in Bankside. The venue has designated event space on the 10th and 11th floors, but also boasts two large landscaped terraces overlooking Tate Modern and London’s city skyline.
The most impressive space at Blue Fin Venue is the Wintergarden. With its double storey glass reception space, it is ideal for award ceremonies, networking events or private parties. Also located on the 11th floor, the Blue Sky Lounge can be transformed into a large event space which directly overlooks St Paul’s Cathedral and the Thames.
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Southwark Cathedral
Southwark Cathedral is London’s oldest Gothic church with many historic ties to Bankside. Located right by London Bridge Station, the cathedral is not only a place of worship, but also caters to a wide range of events. The venue has two outdoor event spaces – the churchyard and the courtyard which adjoins their Millennium building.
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The Table Cafe
A hidden gem in Bankside, The Table Cafe’s entire restaurant space is available for private hire. The intimate, modern space offers a versatile environment for a variety of occasions, from a sit-down dinner for 60 to an alfresco drinks reception for 200. Their outdoor terrace is lined with six mature apple trees and paved with English slate, providing a tranquil setting only moments away from the hubbub of Bankside.
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The Refinery
Whether you’re looking for a reception with drinks and canapes, a birthday party, an intimate dinner, or a big private hire, The Refinery can help. The buzz and culinary theatre of the open plan kitchen can be enjoyed from the comfort of the restaurant while the luxury of space allows diners to enjoy quieter corners for business lunches or corporate meetings.
Every summer between June – August, they transform their outdoor terrace into a wonderful garden setting which can take bookings up to 100.