September 2025
There are so many hidden spaces and atmospheric secret places in London to hold events and astound your guests, particularly those clients from overseas, who will delight in uncovering a more unique London. Tucked away behind oak doors you can find reception spaces with Gothic Tapestry wallpaper and painted ceilings, secluded Cathedral gardens with remarkable history where guests can enjoy the beauty and tranquillity or explore hidden treasures in unique and unusual museums and galleries, where secrets such as movable “picture planes” and remarkable collections can be found. You could invite your guests for behind-the-scenes tours or one-of-a-kind experiences before enjoying unforgettable private dining in rarely seen locations.
Image credit: Houses of Parliament © Matt Chung Photography
Tucked away behind oak doors, the Pugin Room is one of Parliament’s most atmospheric secrets. Once a Peers’ committee room, it was transformed in the 1970s into a reception space dedicated to Augustus Pugin.
Guests stepping inside discover Gothic Tapestry wallpaper – one of Pugin’s richest flock designs – and a painted ceiling copied from his original stencils in the Commons Library. Few realise the chandelier above them once lit the Great Dining Room at Alton Towers, or that the stone shields bear the coats of arms of Pugin, Barry, Giles Gilbert Scott and others connected with the Palace.
The centrepiece, however, is the bay window: a raised seating niche looking directly onto the Thames, offering an almost private panorama of Westminster Bridge and the London Eye. This blend of Victorian craftsmanship and hidden river views creates an experience that feels truly secret – and unforgettable for guests this autumn.
Image credit: Southwark Cathedral
Southwark Cathedral’s Churchyard is a hidden garden in the heart of London Bridge, offering visitors and event guests a moment of serenity. Tucked away in a quiet corner of the Churchyard lies the Cathedral’s Herb Garden—an even more secluded space with a remarkable history.
Designed to reflect a typical medieval monastic garden, it commemorates the centuries-old links between Southwark Cathedral and St Thomas’ Hospital. The hospital was originally built on St. Thomas’ Street in Southwark by the Augustinian Canons of St Mary Overie, whose priory was founded on the Cathedral site in 1106.
Today, the Herb Garden flourishes with over fifty varieties of herbs once used by the Canons for healing the sick, as well as for everyday purposes such as cooking, brewing, fumigating, and strewing.
Guests can enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of this historic space during outdoor receptions or explore its fascinating past as part of a guided tour add-on for conferences.
Image credit: Royal College of Music
Tucked away at the heart of the Royal College of Music is a collection of over 14,000 rare and wonderful musical objects. This autumn, explore these hidden treasures by including an exclusive tour of the Wolfson Centre in Music & Material Culture in your hire of any RCM venue.
Invite your guests behind-the-scenes in the Wolfson Centre before enjoying a private dinner in the Royal College of Music Museum. Rarely available for private dining, the Museum surrounds guests with historic instruments, manuscripts and artworks spanning more than five centuries, offering a distinctive and intimate setting in South Kensington.
Get in touch with the RCM Venue Hire team by emailing VenueHire@rcm.ac.uk.
Image credit: Francesca Boschetti
Some secrets, such as the movable “picture planes” of the Picture Room at Sir John Soane’s Museum, are worth sharing! In a room that ostensibly only displays 38 paintings, Sir John devised an innovative space-saving solution to allow for the hanging of 118 paintings: the walls can be opened…
This ‘hidden’ collection includes Hogarth’s A Rake’s Progress, on the North Side, and a catalogue of Soanes’ own works, as well as the Nymph’s Recess, on the South Side.
The planes are opened at set times each day, and the room has a limited capacity. To ensure that guests have the opportunity to experience the showstopping moment where the planes are opened, and to have the exclusive chance to see both the North and South sides revealed, they can book a Private Tour led by one of the Museum’s expert guides.
To arrange a Private Tour, please email events@soane.org.uk
Image credit: Lasdun
This autumn, Supporters’ House reveals a hidden side of the Gallery: intimate, atmospheric, and homely. Available for hire in the evenings, this elegant retreat is a rare gem, offering an atmosphere of quiet sophistication just steps away from the National Gallery’s world-renowned collection.
Dressed to make design lovers swoon, it offers a variety of spaces: The Dining Room provides a striking setting for dinners of up to 22 or receptions for 50, its deep tones evoke warmth and cosiness.
The lounge, perfect for relaxed conversations and connections, invites guests to unwind in comfort for up to 150. For those seeking privacy, the Private Dining Room for 12 offers an ideal space for special gatherings or focused work dining and lunching. Experience the new season at the Supporters’ House.
To find out more, contact our Events team - events@nationaltheatre.org.uk.
Image credit: Westminster Abbey
Entertaining Guests Hidden high above the floor of Westminster Abbey, 52 feet in the air, lies one of London’s best-kept secrets: the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Galleries. Tucked within the Abbey’s 13th-century triforium, this extraordinary space offers international guests a perspective few ever see. As they ascend, guests enjoy sweeping views over the Palace of Westminster, before stepping into a gallery housing some of the Abbey’s greatest treasures, from medieval manuscripts and funeral effigies to the 14th-century Liber Regalis, still used for coronations today.
Perfect for an exclusive autumn drinks reception, the Galleries pair historic atmosphere with John Betjeman’s oft-called “best view in Europe.” It’s an unforgettable way to entertain in a setting where history is not only preserved but brought vividly to life.
Contact our Events Team to plan your unforgettable evening – bookings@westminster-abbey.org
Image credit: Two By Two
Secret London: After-Hours at the Science Museum
Looking for a one-of-a-kind experience that will entertain your guests this autumn? The Science Museum offers after-hours access to some of its most iconic galleries - including Flight, Wonderlab, and Power Up.
Perfect for international delegates or VIP clients, private access to the galleries can be booked as a standalone event or combined with a meeting or conference in Illuminate or the Smith Centre.
Interactive science experiments carried out at the live Chemistry Bar in Wonderlab and hands-on gaming experiences in Power Up are guaranteed to keep your guests engaged and enthralled!
The Science Museum also offers the rare opportunity to hire the entire museum exclusively for a selected number of dates —a dramatic and memorable option for large-scale events.
Find out more or contact the team here: venuehire@sciencemuseum.ac.uk / 020 7942 4340
Image credit: 60 Great Queen Street
Behind its iconic façade, 60 Great Queen Street is filled with hidden spaces where iconic elegance and history quietly unfold.
The Egyptian Room, with its striking mosaic décor, is a hidden space perfect for weddings or drinks receptions, accommodating up to 150 guests in an intimate yet grand setting - available on select dates. You can also find the Grand Officers’ Suite, a little-known gem that provides an elegant, private retreat for VIPs or a bridal suite, complete with its own bathroom.
Beyond these unique spaces, guests can discover the rich symbolism woven throughout the building. Celestial motifs represent guidance and inspiration, while striking Art Deco flourishes showcase the creativity and craftsmanship of the era. These hidden details add layers of intrigue and storytelling, offering your guests an immersive experience of London’s heritage.
Contact sales@60greatqueenst.co.uk or call 020 7438 2032 for more details.
Image credit: The National Gallery
Tucked discreetly behind a private door on Trafalgar Square, Supporters’ House is an extraordinary new space created exclusively for our supporters and members. Available for hire in the evenings, this elegant retreat is a rare gem, offering an atmosphere of quiet sophistication just steps away from the National Gallery’s world-renowned collection.
This autumn, Supporters’ House reveals a hidden side of the Gallery: intimate, atmospheric, and homely. Dressed to make design lovers swoon, it offers a variety of versatile spaces. The Dining Room provides a striking setting for dinners of up to 22 or receptions for 50, its deep tones evoke warmth and cosiness. The lounge, perfect for relaxed conversations and connections, invites guests to unwind in comfort for up to 150 reception guests. For those seeking privacy, the Private Dining Room for 12 offers an ideal space for special gatherings or focused work dining and lunching. Experience the new season at the Supporters’ House.
Image credit: Royal Museums Greenwich
Our collection of historic venues offers a myriad of hidden gems perfectly suited for those more intimate celebrations. Imagine hosting an elegant drinks reception at the Queen’s House Loggia, The House’s wonderful balcony overlooking the greenery of Greenwich Park. For a truly unforgettable dining experience, entertain your guests at the Captain’s Table aboard the legendary Cutty Sark. Or, why not add a unique and inspiring touch to your event with an exclusive talk from one of our expert astronomers, over bubbles & canapes in the impressive Great Equatorial Telescope at the Royal Observatory.
Whether it’s a formal affair, a company milestone or a fun private celebration, RMG’s iconic museums are ready to impress. Let us help you create an unforgettable and unique experience for you.
We can't wait to start dreaming your next event with you! Contact RMG now at events@rmg.co.uk or on 0208 312 8517.
Image credit: Paul Wilkinson
If hosting your event at the Royal Institution with just the knowledge of sharing a space with over 200 years of scientific heritage isn’t enough, then you can enjoy a bespoke heritage tour or science demo show as an extra add-on to your event!
From a brief history of the Royal Institution to the origins of liquid nitrogen, you can enjoy plenty of the Ri’s most loved demos in one of our tabletop demonstrations. Or if you’d like more of a person tour through the Ri’s history, then our heritage tours can be tailoured to your interests and give you an insight into the endless scientific pioneers who have walked (and worked in!) the halls of the Ri.
Please contact venuehire@ri.ac.uk for more information.
Image credit: Trustees of the Natural History Museum London
Private gallery viewings at the Natural History Museum
Add a journey through Space, or into the wild, to your next event!
When you host your evening event at the Natural History Museum, did you know that you can add on a private gallery view? As well as an iconic venue, each year the Museum holds fascinating exhibitions throughout the year, often rooted in the expertise of its scientists.
Currently running is Space: Could Life Exist Beyond Earth? Touch a piece of the Moon, find out what an asteroid smells like and come face to face with a Mars rover in this exhilarating exhibition which explores one of our biggest questions: are we alone in the universe?
Every year, the Natural History Museum also hosts the world’s leading wildlife photography competition, Wildlife Photographer of the Year. From Friday 17 October, you can add on a private view of this stunning exhibition, which spotlights 100 inspiring and powerful images of our natural world.
Image credit: London Museum Docklands
Set within a Grade I listed warehouse on West India Quay, London Museum Docklands offers more than a stunning riverside venue—it’s a place where guests can uncover London’s hidden stories.
This autumn, take advantage of our special seasonal offer which offers the perfect mix of work and play. Enjoy a productive meeting followed by 1.5 hours of unlimited drinks and nibbles as you watch the sun set over the Docks. And if you want to offer your guests something truly unique that they can’t experience anywhere else, add on our private ‘Docks After Dark’ tour for a spooking good time!
Wander through the lantern-lit corridors of the immersive Sailortown and hear the tales of those who once walked these very docks. Whether it’s a spine-tingling night with your team or a chilling quest for your clients, the shadows hold untold stories waiting just for you!
Find out more about our Autumn Conference Offer and Docks After Darks tour, by contacting the team:
Image credit: The HAC
Discover Secret London this Autumn at the HAC
The HAC offers a hidden gem for intimate events in central London – the Medal Room. Tucked away on the first floor of Armoury House, this elegant space is adorned with a remarkable collection of medals awarded to members of the HAC over the years, many kindly donated by soldiers or their families. On display in the Medal Room are six Victoria Cross medals, the highest award for gallantry highlighting acts of extraordinary bravery.
Clients can host private dinners, meetings, or seminars in this distinctive setting, which accommodates up to 40 guests with flexible seating options. High ceilings and large windows allow natural light to highlight the historic medal displays, creating a striking backdrop for any gathering.
Autumn is the perfect season to enjoy the Medal Room. Guests can experience a seasonal dinner or
celebratory event with menus crafted by Searcys, featuring drinks, canapés, and bespoke dining options. The space also provides an ideal setting for networking, allowing guests to mingle and connect in a relaxed, historic environment.
To discover more about the Medal Room and other unique spaces at the HAC, visit our Venue Spaces page: Venue Hire Central London | The Honourable Artillery Company or contact our events team to book a visit: sales@hac.org.uk / 020 7382 1533.
Image credit: 30 Euston Square
Tucked away in the heart of Euston, the Rooftop Terrace at 30 Euston Square is one of London’s best-kept secrets. Hidden above the bustle of the city, it offers a private, elevated space with panoramic views across the capital and it’s just undergone a significant refurbishment to make it even more flexible and increase capacity.
International guests are often surprised to find such a tranquil outdoor setting in central London. The terrace, partially covered and complete with heaters, can be enjoyed well into the autumn and winter months, providing an atmospheric backdrop for receptions and evening gatherings.
The terrace connects directly to the State Rooms, allowing hosts to create a seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. Guests can move effortlessly from a formal meeting or dinner to cocktails under the city lights, making the experience both memorable and uniquely London.
With catering by Searcys, events can be tailored to showcase British hospitality at its best. Seasonal menus, warming cocktails, and touches such as garden games or live entertainment transform the terrace into a distinctive setting for international visitors seeking something a little different.
For more information or to book an event at 30 Euston Square, contact us on 30eustonsquare@searcys.co.uk or call 020 8453 4600.
Image credit: the Design Museum
This November, Wes Anderson: The Archives, a landmark exhibition featuring over 600 objects from the director’s films, opens at the Design Museum. The museum has been granted unprecedented access to Anderson’s personal archives, with many items on display in Britain for the first time.
For those looking to impress clients or international visitors, a private viewing of Wes Anderson’s hidden world can be paired with dinners or drinks receptions in the museum’s visually impressive event spaces. It’s the perfect opportunity to entertain guests while letting them explore one of London’s best-kept cultural secrets.
Wes Anderson: The Archives charts the evolution of his films, from early experiments in the 1990s to recent productions, highlighting iconic works such as The Grand Budapest Hotel, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, Fantastic Mr. Fox and Isle of Dogs. Over 600 objects showcase Anderson’s meticulous craft through storyboards, sketches, costumes, miniature models and original props.
Highlights include a candy-pink model of the Grand Budapest Hotel, the FENDI fur coat worn by Margot Tenenbaum, stop-motion puppets from The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, and a screening of Bottle Rocket, Anderson’s first short film.
For more information, visit the link in bio or contact venuehire@designmuseum.org
Image credit: Benjamin Wetherall
This autumn, Somerset House unveils its hidden treasures alongside a vibrant cultural programme. Beneath the iconic Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court, the Lightwells & Deadhouse offer atmospheric subterranean spaces rich in history, while the Nelson and Stamp Stairs showcase unique 18th-century design. Find out more about Somerset House’s history by booking their Family-Friendly Tours or Historical Highlights Tours.
Other autumn highlights include:
You can also enhance your guests’ experience by linking your event to Somerset House’s vibrant cultural programme — from private exhibition views and packages to exclusive behind-the-scenes access. Contact the team on events@somersethouse.org.uk or 020 7845 4618.
Image credit: The Postal Museum
London’s Hidden Tunnels: A One-of-a-Kind Event Experience
Deep beneath the streets of central London lies one of city’s best-kept secrets. At The Postal Museum, guests can ride through secret tunnels on the Mail Rail, the city’s former postal railway - a unique underground and immersive experience unlike anything else in the capital.
This autumn, we’re offering exclusive corporate tunnel walks, giving guests behind-the-scenes access on a private guided tour, paired with a champagne reception in our atmospheric subterranean venue.
Conveniently located near Chancery Lane, Farringdon, and King’s Cross, the venue is ideal for international teams visiting London, post-work gatherings, and memorable client events.
The tunnels offer an unforgettable opportunity to show your guests a side of London they won’t find anywhere else.
With packages starting from £2,500 + VAT make your next event extraordinary. To find out more, contact: venues@postalmuseum.org
Image credit: Historic Royal Palaces
The Undercroft at Banqueting House
Offer your event guests a taste of royal seclusion and secrecy with The Undercroft at Banqueting House. Most famous for being the drinking den of James I within the old Whitehall Palace, the Undercroft provide the perfect backdrop for intimate and atmospheric events of all kinds. With capacity for up to 250 for dancing, this space is the ideal central London party space.
The Undercroft can be paired with the iconic Main Hall for the complete Banqueting House event experience.
Contact the team now to find out more about hosting your event at Banqueting House
Unique Venues of London
Henwood House
Henwood
Ashford
TN24 8DH
enquiries@uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk
07808 646657
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