History

London's Unique Venues, Representing The Capital

Unique Venues of London (UVL) was established in 1993, initiated by the Natural History Museum, as a membership organisation of 18 unique and specialist properties within the capital. The organisation was launched to showcase and celebrate London’s diverse venue scene, while offering valuable problem sharing and networking opportunities to the industry.

Unique Venues of London was first launched as The Independent Association of Function Venues, but as membership grew the name was changed to reflect the broadening range of unique venues within the organisation.

With a wide selection and range of venues from across the industry, the organisation is in an excellent position to comment on market trends and other issues on behalf of both its members and all London based venues. The company has the support of Visit London, VisitBritain and London Mayor, Ken Livingstone, who all take an active interest in the group's activity.

Since its launch, Unique Venues of London has continued to grow in stature and recognition, expanding its membership base while still maintaining a strict selection process, ensuring the integrity of the organisation. UVL has also catered for the wide variety of unique venues within the capital. The membership cost is judged on the businesses’ turnover, rather than a flat fee, this way any unique venue can be considered for membership, regardless of size and location.

Current membership stands at 68 venues.

Notes to editors

Unique Venues of London

Chairman – Lisa Hatswell

A History of Unique Venues of London

1993 – Unique Venues of London launches under the name ‘Independent Association of Functions Venues’ with a starting membership of 18 venues

1994 – The British Tourist Authority recognises and supports the group

1995 – The association changes name to become Unique Venues of London

1996 – UVL receives strategic support from Visit London, leading to further support from VisitBritain

1997 – The first UVL brochure is officially launched at Tower Bridge

1998 – Incorporated as a company

1999 – The London Mayors Office and Ken Livingstone add their support for the organisation

2002 – UVL breaks the fifty member barrier

2003 – Unique Venues of London celebrates 10 years

2004 - The National Army Museum, The Horniman Museum, Dali Universe, The Royal Academy of Arts and The Royal Naval College all join UVL. Membership now stands at a comprehensive 56

2004 – UVL launches a new website and brochure that gives users more detailed information on each member and help them refine their search for the right venue for their event

2005 – New venues enter into the organisation including; Royal Opera House, Vinopolis, HMS Belfast.

2005 – Ian Fraser retires as Chairman of UVL.

2006 - Charlotte Reeves voted new Chairman by members. Membership of UVL now stands at 63.

2007 - The new website is launched at the start of the year. In August Lisa Hatswell becomes the new Chairman as Charlotte Reeves retires.

2008 - Lisa Hatswell voted new Chairman by members. Membership of UVL now stands at 68.