About London
The UK’s capital city of London is one of the most vibrant, buzzing places in the world. A diverse melting pot of nationalities, professions and cultures, it’s no wonder that so many huge events are held in the city, from album launches to film premieres. The capital is also home to some of the biggest names in media such as BBC, ITV, Heart Radio and Sony Music.
London has hundreds of venue spaces, from historical halls and theatres to modern hotels and intimate bars and restaurants, meaning there is always somewhere perfect for hosting an event. The city is filled with tourists and locals enjoying the huge range of attractions, culinary options and regular events. Therefore, you’ll never be lacking things to do if you’re making a trip out of it!
Press Event Venue Options in London
Holding a press event can be a very delicate process, whether you are planning to launch a new product, make an announcement or deal with currently circulating news about a company or person. There is a lot to think about before you can kick off the big event, and you’ll have to consider everything from the location to the people attending and anything you might need to run the show.
- Location
The location of a press event can be critical as it is likely that people will be attending from across the city, if not the country. This means it’s important for your event to be quite centrally located, with good public transport connections and even nearby parking, depending on the space you’re hiring. Often, Central London venues will cost more; however, it’s vital to weigh up the benefits to your attendees. Likewise, the venue should be appropriate to what you’re announcing; you probably wouldn’t respond to negative press in a rooftop bar, for example, where a formal conference centre or private space might be better suited.
- Facilities
You might have thought hiring a room or space for a press event is quite straightforward. However, unless you have strictly scheduled the event to be a short one, attendees will need facilities on-site. This includes restrooms and waiting areas, if necessary, as well as spaces for guests to mingle or private meeting rooms if you’ll be conducting interviews or need to prepare speakers to go on stage.
- Equipment
Good quality equipment is essential for any kind of press event, no matter how large or small. For big events, you’ll likely have a stage or podium, so you’ll need microphones, lighting and audiovisual equipment if there will be a presentation or screening. Having internet access is also vital not just for presenting and sharing information but for your attendees to be able to instantly send and receive up-to-date information.
- Printed Collaterals
As a finishing touch, if you are launching a new product or initiative, you may want to invest in professionally designed banners and stands to make the room look as professional as possible.
Press Event Companies in London
- Good Look Events
Good Look Events are an event planning company that specifically caters to corporate events, from office parties and functions to conferences and press events. They will help you every step of the way, making sure vendors are organised, setting up on the day and preparing everything for the critical moment. They have a dedicated network of beautiful venues around London which you’ll have exclusive access to should you work with them.
- London Audio Visual
A company that does what it says on the tin, London Audio Visual supplies a range of high-quality equipment for corporate events including product launches, press events and conferences. Whether you need a computer, projector, sound system or microphone, they will not only tailor a bespoke plan for everything you need on the day but they will also set it up, meaning one less thing to worry about on the day.
- Promo Signs
If you’re hosting a press event, you may not want over-the-top decorations, but rather a few professional stalls and banners to advertise and promote the subject of your event. Promo Signs operates in London and produces every possible promotional decoration you could need, from exhibition banners and pop-up displays to billboard displays. Adding these to your event will give it a corporate touch and make sure your attendees have all the information they need about the event.
Pros and Cons of Press Event Venues in London
Advantages
- Excellent transport
London’s tube and bus networks are unparalleled, allowing people to get to and from venues quickly and easily no matter where in the city they are located. Similarly, London has multiple mainline rail stations, such as St Pancras International, Victoria, Euston and Waterloo, offering high-speed connections to cities across the country.
- Variety of venues
London has no shortage of venue spaces for every requirement and budget. From intimate lounges and bars to formal conference centres and huge halls and theatres, you will always find what you need regardless if you’re hosting 20 people or 500.
Disadvantages
- It’s very busy
London is home to millions of people and is both a business and creative hub. Unfortunately, this means that everything is in constant demand and gets booked up quickly due to the sheer number of people needing spaces for their events.
- It’s more expensive
The price of general living in London is far above the rest of the UK which leads to everything being more costly, including event spaces and related companies. Although it is possible to hire reasonably priced spaces, you’ll have to plan well in advance. However, if you’re hosting a large event and have the money to push the boat out, the city has some spectacular venues available.
Famous Press Event Venues in London
- The Other Palace Theatre
Located right in the middle of London next to Buckingham Palace, the Other Palace Theatre regularly puts on some great performances where you can while away the evening watching a comedy or drama. They have a great restaurant and bar and are within walking distance of most of London’s best attractions. It’s also available to hire as an event space which can host up to 300 people, is fully accessible and already has all the equipment you’ll need for a press event.
- Somerset House
If you have a taste for art, history or culture, then Somerset House is a must-visit when you’re in London. The museum regularly displays exhibitions on photography, art and culture and has limited-run shows as well. The stunning white courtyard space also plays host to some of London’s best activities, such as an ice rink and alpine bar in the winter, and a music festival in the summer. Their elegantly designed Portico Rooms can also be booked for events with up to 200 people. On top of that, they even have their own catering, so that is one less thing to worry about.
