About London
London is situated along the River Thames, the longest river in England and the second-longest river in the entire United Kingdom. London’s population has been growing ever so large for over two thousand years. Human activity on the River Thames has been documented all the way back to the pre-Roman era when the river was referred to as 'Ancient Tamesis'.
As the capital of England, London is a 24/7 city with an entertainment scene that many people travel across the world to see. Many galas are happening simultaneously in London all year round, such as The Grand Prix Ball, Ladies Elegant Eid Party, Yemen Crisis Charity Dinner, and the London Fashion Gala S/S 23.
These galas are only a tiny tip of the iceberg of the events that London sees annually. If you plan to host a gala within the most populated city in England, you are looking in the right place. Let’s take a look at what London has to offer further in this article.
Gala Location Options in London
Planning a gala, regardless of size, is a lot to handle. Considering many of the small details that go into a gala event can be tedious. We’ve gone ahead and searched high and low in London to see what this city has to offer in vendors for your gala event. Check out what we have found!
- Catering
Catering is a staple in any gala event, regardless of whether you host your event during the day or at night. Catering comes in many different styles such as buffets, staffed meals, food trucks or simply cold platters of snacks. Depending on the atmosphere you are creating for your gala event, you can hire a fancier catering option or a casual one. After you know which way you would like to go, choosing a catering service in London will become easier for you, as there are so many options to choose from!
- Audiovisual Equipment Hire
If you are hosting a larger-scale gala event, look for an audiovisual shop that fits the needs of your event. Audiovisual packages include technology ranging from PA systems for speeches, sound systems for music and projectors for a slideshow or presentation. Suppose you are nervous about running equipment you know not much about. In that case, many audiovisual shops can send out a technician with your equipment to run it for you so the event goes smoothly.
- Table and Chair Hire
Depending on the venue you are hiring for your gala, some venues do not come with their own tables and chairs, especially if you have hired a blank space. Blank spaces allow you to be more creative with the details, such as tables and chairs. London has so many events going on every single day; hence, many table and chair suppliers are well-stocked with many options available. They have everything whether you want a simpler look or a more unique and extravagant look.
Gala Location Companies in London
- Pure Indulgence Catering
Pure Indulgence Catering is owned by husband and wife, Jonty and Victoria Franks. This duo splits the business as Jonty takes care of the food, while Victoria is all about the drinks, with her WSET level three qualification. Jonty and Victoria Franks decided they want only the best for their customers and only choose seasonal, sustainably sourced and organic ingredients for both their food and drinks. The team also includes a drink mixologist to work at your event when hired.
- AV2Hire
AV2Hire has been in the industry for over 15 years. The team at AV2Hire adopt an eco-friendly principle and use bikes as a delivery service when possible. Aside from providing high-quality equipment such as projectors, screens, PA systems and more, they offer you professional advice and a no-fee set-up at your event.
- Chair Hire London
Chair Hire London is a part of the YaHire group. This company is open seven days a week and carries all items from chairs, tables, catering, barware, linen and accessories. If you need an event planner, Chair Hire London also can include one to help you with the layout of your venue. Price matching and same-day delivery are included when you use the services of Chair Hire London.
Pros and Cons of Gala Locations in London
Pros
- Entertainment culture
London is one of England's leading and largest cities and is hot on the entertainment scene. There are over eight million people who live here residentially who help create this scene. Your gala event will be heard of by many and has a great chance of being successful in London due to the culture.
- Options
London is a large city with many vendors who cater to the entertainment scene. This leaves you with many vendors to choose from when planning for your gala event.
Cons
- Expensive
Being England's capital and the most sought-after spot comes with a price. If you want to continue with your gala event in London, you will have to pay an increased cost compared to other larger cities such as Manchester or Birmingham.
Famous Gala Locations in London
- Queen's House
The Queen's House was a former royal residence and was also the first classical architecture building in England. The Queen's House is located in the borough of Greenwich, known as a World Heritage Site, with views of the iconic River Thames and the Royal Observatory. Inside are three main event spaces ideal for corporate and private events.
- 116 Pall Mall
116 Pall Mall is a Georgian-style building located in the heart of London. Initially built in 1828, this building has preserved all of the original inside features. There are spaces spanning all five floors suitable for all event types.
- The Grove
The Grove is a country estate which is an 18-mile drive from Central London. Sitting on a sizable 300-acre lot, it is also a championship golf course. Within this large piece of land, there are three restaurants and multiple suites that can hold an event of any type. The space can hold up to 700 at max capacity.
