London may not be the first place that comes to mind for large outdoor events and festivals, yet the capital offers a surprising range of open spaces that provide the perfect setting for a memorable summer celebration.

There are beautiful private grounds ideal for brand activations, team building events, family fun days, summer receptions, food festivals, vintage car fairs and so much more.  

Unique Venues of London can help you discover exceptional locations, from elegant historic gardens and world-renowned sporting stadiums to expansive lawns within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dockside terraces, spectacular palace grounds and even a penguin beach offering unforgettable interactive experiences.

Whether you are looking for a late summer celebration or planning an event for 2027, here are some great locations. 

The HAC

Outdoor events in the heart of the City

The HAC’s five acres of outdoor space offer a unique setting for events throughout the year. Artillery Garden has welcomed a variety of occasions, from the prestigious London Concours, showcasing some of the world’s most impressive cars, to the Standard Chartered Great City Race, bringing thousands of runners together in the heart of London.

The flexible outdoor space provides the perfect backdrop for summer parties, team building activities, sporting events, outdoor cinemas and large-scale corporate gatherings. The HAC’s historic rooms can also be used alongside the gardens, providing additional options for hospitality and indoor elements, with catering and hospitality delivered by Searcys.

Combining open green space with historic surroundings, the HAC offers a distinctive setting for outdoor events in the City. To discuss your next event, contact sales@hac.org.uk  or call 020 7382 1533.

Lincoln’s Inn

Lincoln's Inn is the perfect venue for your large summer celebration, offering an exceptional blend of historic elegance and expansive outdoor space in the heart of London. Its beautiful private grounds provide the ideal setting for fates, team-building activities, and family fun days, with plenty of room for entertainment, games and food stalls. 

Whether you're planning a corporate summer party, a staff event, or a memorable family celebration, the North Lawn can be tailored to suit events of varying sizes. Guests can enjoy a unique atmosphere surrounded by centuries of history while benefiting from modern event facilities, expert planning support, and outstanding catering options. 

With excellent transport links and a prestigious central location, Lincoln's Inn is both convenient and impressive. Combining stunning surroundings, flexible event spaces and amazing food and drink, it creates an unforgettable backdrop for bringing colleagues, clients, friends, and families together to celebrate the summer in style.

Lord’s Cricket Ground

Make the most of the summer season with an unforgettable outdoor event at Lord's. Whether you're planning a corporate celebration, client reception, or private gathering, our three unique outdoor spaces provide the perfect backdrop for al fresco entertaining.

Choose from the iconic Pavilion Roof Terrace, offering panoramic views across the famous Ground for standing receptions of up to 200 guests; the Centurions Roof Terrace, accommodating up to 350 guests and featuring a private bar with spectacular views over the Main Ground; or the picturesque Harris Garden, perfect for 50–200 guests, complete with two bars, outdoor seating and retractable umbrellas for added comfort.

Looking to create a truly memorable experience? Pair your reception with an interactive team-building session in the Lord's Vitality Performance Centre, where guests can enjoy an introduction to cricket before relaxing with a classic Pimm's reception and BBQ in one of our spectacular outdoor venues.

From networking events to summer parties, Lord's offers an exceptional setting for every occasion.

Royal Museums Greenwich

Summer at Royal Museums Greenwich means unforgettable events across our portfolio! Today we’re particularly spotlighting the National Maritime Museum, Queen’s House and Cutty Sark. Set within a UNESCO World Heritage Site and conveniently in London Zone 2, our venues offer some of the city’s most impressive outdoor event environments, from expansive lawns perfect for large‑scale brand activations and summer parties to elegant terraces and sweeping historic views. 

The National Maritime Museum and its Southwest Lawn can accommodate up to 1,000 guests standing, ideal for major corporate celebrations and immersive experiences. The Queen’s House effortlessly delivers a luxury touch with its iconic Colonnades, a stunning setting for alfresco dining or golden‑hour receptions. 

And for a truly iconic summer backdrop, Cutty Sark’s top deck offers dramatic skyline views and atmospheric open‑air space aboard the world’s last surviving tea clipper. Create a summer event that feels iconic, timeless and that your guests won’t soon forget!

 Reach us on events@rmg.co.uk or on 020 8312 8517.

Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery

Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery recently held a whole site takeover for a large corporate fashion brand. A perfect example of how flexibly the spaces can be used, marquees can be set up on Walpole lawn at the back of the manor, with drinks on the forecourt and intimate conversations in the walled gardens. 

The spaces have also been used for outdoor filming and photography - including Antiques Roadshow (pictured), Channel 4 and Universal Studios.

The Walled Garden is the perfect place for guests to party the night away and the Lawn is ideal for marquees, large South Asian weddings, bar mitzvahs and summer celebrations. 

Get in touch with the dedicated team at private.hire@pitzhanger.org.uk  today.

ZSL London Zoo

Penguin Beach hire at London Zoo provides the perfect setting for a tranquil cocktail and canapé reception.

Set in the heart of the Zoo, Penguin Beach recreates a South American beach landscape with a stunning colony of Humboldt penguins. It's a fantastic venue to hire with penguins for summer evening receptions, and spring and summer breakfasts. 

Features:

• Amphitheatre style seating for 300 for all your guests to enjoy a talk from our expert Zookeepers.

• Guests can upgrade to Feed the Penguins and even meet some of our flippered friends.

• Upgrade to have one of our Zookeepers talk you through wonderful facts and anecdotes about Penguin Beach.

Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace continues to demonstrate its versatility as one of London’s most spectacular settings for major outdoor events. This summer bank holiday weekend, the Hampton Court Palace Food Festival will bring together over 150 independent food and drink producers, street food, live cookery demonstrations and family entertainment across the beautiful palace gardens. 

In September, the Concours of Elegance will transform the grounds once again, welcoming some of the world’s rarest and most remarkable cars to the iconic Fountain Garden.

Together, these events are excellent examples of how the outdoor spaces at Hampton Court Palace can be used creatively and confidently for large-scale experiences. From large festival type events to premium lifestyle and brand showcases, the palace grounds offer the space, heritage backdrop and atmosphere needed to deliver memorable public events that appeal to a wide range of audiences.

London Museum Docklands

Riverside events with a view at London Museum Docklands

London Museum Docklands Riverside Terrace offers dockside views and a unique outdoor setting in the heart of Canary Wharf. Connected to the Riverside Room and Rum Store, the terrace creates a flexible indoor- outdoor venue that brings together the energy of the city with the character of a historic riverside warehouse.

Perfect for summer celebrations, family fun days, corporate events and private parties, the space offers plenty of opportunities to create memorable experiences by the water. Guests can enjoy the open-air atmosphere on the terrace before moving into the Rum Store or Riverside Room, combining outdoor freedom with the comfort and character of the museum & distinctive warehouse event spaces.

With heritage surroundings, skyline views and a setting unlike any other in London, the Riverside Terrace provides a memorable backdrop for events that make the most of the capital & vibrant waterfront. From relaxed summer gatherings to large-scale corporate and private events, it is a space designed to bring people together and make every occasion feel a little more special.

Speak to the team today to explore how the Riverside Terrace can transform your next outdoor event: 0207814 5789 / venuehire@londonmuseum.org.uk 

London Museum Spaces

Garden parties and outdoor celebrations at London Museum Spaces

London Museum Spaces offers a distinctive outdoor setting that feels a world away from the surrounding streets. The Terrace Gallery, Garden Room and Terrace Boardroom all open directly onto a private patio and overlook a garden space, creating a versatile backdrop for events that embrace the outdoors.

Ideal for family fun days, themed celebrations, corporate events and private get-togethers, the patio lends itself perfectly to everything from traditional fêtes and garden parties to circus-inspired experiences, seasonal festivities and outdoor entertainment. The adjoining indoor spaces provide the flexibility to support activities and catering throughout the day, making it easy to create events that flow seamlessly between indoors and out.

Whether you are planning a playful afternoon of activities or an evening reception under the city skyline, London Museum Spaces offers a distinctive setting that brings people together in the heart of London.

Get in touch to discuss how the terrace rooms and patio could provide the perfect backdrop for your next celebration: 020 7814 5789 / venuehire@londonmuseum.org.uk