About York
York is known as England’s oldest cathedral city, gaining fame for its medieval Roman walls. The best way to view the city’s historic buildings is to buy a York City Pass. This pass grants access to over 20 York attractions and includes a free meal at ASK, a local Italian restaurant.
York is home to world-class festivals such as the York Early Music Festival. Established in 1977, it features young, up-and-coming jazz and family folk artists. Taking place in the autumn is the York Food and Drink Festival, where you can revel in the multicultural cuisines of York. The Food and Drink Festival is a 10-day festival produced by a not-for-profit organisation that aims to promote local restaurants and food businesses in York and to establish the city as a major food hot spot.
Because of the vibrant entertainment and food-and-drink scene in York, the city is an ideal place to host a party. Now that we have learned a little bit more about this place, let’s take a gander at the party options available here!
Party Venue Options in York
Planning a party can turn into quite the task if you are unsure what aspects to consider. Luckily, we have composed a list of options you can find right in York that should make the job easier.
- Lighting
Lighting can be used to incorporate a particular mood to your party venue. Depending on your party, you may need a spotlight for performers, flashing dance floor lights or minimal lighting to illuminate the surroundings.
- DJ
If your chosen venue doesn’t come with its own DJ, you can hire your own DJ from all around York. The freelance DJ scene is off the chain here; many of the DJs come with their own specializations that can be catered for your music needs.
- Photo Booth
A photo booth can bring any party up a notch and become a fun bonding moment for your guests. Most photo booths come with unlimited prints as well, so your guests will have the opportunity to bring home a souvenir of the special occasion.
- Mixologist
If your party is for an adult audience, having a mixologist present to cater at your party venue can bring some wonder and entertainment. Watching a mixologist work their magic to create a unique drink can be fascinating. Besides, who doesn't love delicious drinks?
Party Venue Companies in York
- Technical Stage Services
Technical Stage Services was established in 2003 as a Martin Professional partner. The company offers an extensive array of lighting equipment such as fairy lights, wash lights and more. Armed with lighting knowledge, Technical Stage Services offer their professional advice along with their high-quality video, stage and sound equipment.
- Magic Images UK
Magic Images offer various photo booths, such as Vintage, Mirror, Pylon and Boomer Booths. All packages include unlimited prints, unlimited props, customised templates and a personalised guest book.
- Yorkshire Bartender
With over ten years of experience, Yorkshire Bartender provides mobile bars, equipment, glassware, cocktails and award-winning mixologists. Before the event, Yorkshire Bartender will work with you to curate the perfect drinks menu for your party.
Pros and Cons of Party Venues in York
Pros
- Best of both worlds
The city of York has the best of both worlds: the city and the countryside. If you’re looking to throw a party away from the city, York has plenty of venues for hire that are situated in the idyllic countryside.
- Commuting
Commuting in York is very accessible, so your party guests will be able to reach the city easily even if they're coming from other towns or cities.
- Easy to get around
York is very easy to get around, especially if you’re just walking! The best way to see this ancient city is on foot. There are also city bikes, trains, bus and car rentals available. When planning for your party, you can easily navigate the city and visit your preferred shops and vendors.
- Inexpensive
Compared with cities such as London and Oxford, York is relatively cheaper to live in. You'll be able to save a bit of money when availing vendor and equipment services for your party.
Cons
- Weather
The weather in York is colder than in most parts of England. York sees snow more often, and it is also faced with strong winds and cold air. This can be overwhelming if you or your party guests are not used to a chillier climate, so it's better to be prepared by checking the weather forecast on the day of your party and wearing weather-appropriate clothing.
Famous Party Venues in York
- Valhalla York
Located in the heart of York is Valhalla, a Viking-style pub that holds a capacity of 45 people. The pub offers beers, cocktails, ales, mead and a hearty menu that consists of spiced meatballs, pork sausages, chicken wings and baby back ribs, to name a few. They have only one room available for hire, the All Father Hall, which can seat up to 20 people.
- Bedern Hall
The Bedern Hall has been around since the 14th century and is located in a Grade II listed building with medieval timber framing. The venue offers its own catering team, who uses locally sourced and seasonal ingredients from their garden. The Bedern Hall is a popular choice for weddings, but it can also be used for meetings, conferences and lectures. Rate starts at £125 for a half-day use, which already comes with free AV equipment rental and Wi-Fi.
- The Grand
Initially built in 1906, The Grand is one of the United Kingdom's 5-star hotels. The hotel consists of eight suites that include the Grand Boardroom, the Chairman’s Suite, the Gibb, the Leeman, the Ridley, the Butterworth, the Paterson and the Hudson. The Grand offers a daytime event hire consisting of afternoon tea or a nighttime event hire at the venue’s own 1906 Bar. The suites can be hired for weddings, meetings and private celebrations such as baby showers, birthdays, bridal showers and more. The hotel offers various packages to suit your needs.