About London
In the past 2,000 or so years, London has gone from a small group of Romans in 47 AD to almost 10 million in 2021. With its prime location on the banks of the River Thames, the city has built a name for itself in the fashion, food, architecture, and art industry as well as its many attractions, entertainment, and parks for its tourism business.
London is also a popular place for pop-ups. You do not have to go to a club or restaurant to eat or drink, just host a pop-up. Whether you are wanting to have a rooftop speakeasy or a special promotion in a luxurious mansion, you can find what you are looking for in a pop-up space in London.
Interesting Fact: The London Underground has its own special breed of mosquito that evolved to live in the dark for long periods. It is called the culex pipiens molestus.
Pop Up Space Options in London
Once you decide on your London pop-up space, you also have to figure out the rest of the details. For instance, you need furniture, décor, food, and photography. You may even need staffing and entertainment.
- Furniture and Equipment Rental
When booking a pop-up space, you will often find that it does not come with seating and other important things you need. No matter how many people come to the event, you are probably going to need somewhere to sit and some décor as well as AV equipment and lighting.
- Catering Service
With 66 award-winning Michelin-starred restaurants in the city, you know you will have no trouble finding a top-notch catering service. Whether you have 50 or 5,000, you should provide some food and drinks.
- Photography
No matter what kind of pop-up you are planning, having a professional photographer is important in capturing those moments you do not want to forget or want to show off on Instagram. Get a videographer too, because video tells the whole story.
- Staffing
You may need some good staff members to help you plan and produce an unforgettable pop-up. Check with a local staffing company in London for your pop-up space to make sure you have the help you need.
- Entertainment
If you are wanting to have a party-style pop-up, check out the professional entertainment companies in London. Get a live band to liven up the crowd or a DJ spinning some fantastic tunes.
Pop Up Space Companies in London
Get what you need when you need it. London has some of the best catering companies, photographers, and staffing as well as world-class entertainment, event rental companies, and transportation.
- FoundPop
If you are going to have a pop-up event, why not rent from a company that specializes in renting top name brand items for pop-ups in London? FoundPop was established by Found Associates, an award-winning interior design company owned by Richard Found. He realized that people would rather rent furniture for their events than buy them, and he was right. Some of his clients include Prada, Adidas, and Lee.
- PenniBlack
Named after its founders, Andy and Charlotte Penniceard, PenniBlack has been providing stellar food to clients all over the world for more than a decade. And they can do it all from breakfast cakes to afternoon tea to bespoke dining as well as buffets, picnics, and a backyard barbecue. Some of the entrees include salmon wellington with creamed leeks, chicken and wild mushroom pie, and slow-roasted beef ribs.
- Blue Arrow
Whether you need catering staff, retail workers, facilities management, or someone who can set up your AV equipment and lighting, Blue Arrow can help. They can provide a full staff or just one person, whatever you need. They have been in business since 1959 and have won many awards over the years.
Pros and Cons of Pop-Ups in London
No matter what kind of pop-up you are having, it pays to check out the city before making your final decision. After all, there are advantages and disadvantages to every city, including London. Here are some of the pros and cons of having a pop-up space in London.
Advantages
- Food choices
London has more than 15,000 restaurants so you will not have any trouble finding what you are looking for no matter what it is. Seafood, Italian, Mexican, to name a few.
- Entertainment
Besides eating, having fun is important too. Luckily, the city boasts thousands of clubs, bars, and theatres to enjoy whether you want to party or relax.
- Attractions
Another essential advantage of having a pop-up space in London is the weather. The temps are never too hot or too cold so if you want to have an outdoor venue, no problem.
Disadvantages
- It is expensive
Although you can find some cheap (and even free) fun in London, you will notice that their prices are a bit higher than the norm.
- The crowds
With so many people in one town, including all of the tourists, you are bound to find a lot of places crowded, including the public transportation ports. Get used to standing in line.
- The clouds
The days are short in London and many of the days are cloudy. In fact, you may want to pack your umbrella.
Famous Locations in London
- Kensington Gardens
This is not your average garden. This used to be the private garden of Kensington Palace and features 265 acres to explore and enjoy. Besides the vibrant flowers and other flora, you can also visit the Serpentine Gallery, the Albert Memorial, and even see Kensington Palace. Book a bright and airy restaurant on Cromwell Road for your pop-up with views of the palace.
- University College of London Art Museum
The University College of London boasts nine museums and collections to see but the most popular is the UCL Art Museum. You can see more than 10,000 pieces dating back to the 1400s including work by Rembrandt, John Flaxman, and William Turner.
- The London Bridge Experience
Lauded as the UK’s scariest attraction, get the full experience of London’s history by actors who take you on a tour as well as giving you the facts about Jack the Ripper and other important historic characters. You can even see the London Tombs for a nice thrilling adventure.