October 2025
Events come in all sorts of shapes and sizes, and smaller events can still be as magnificent and beautiful as the grandest of galas. In London and across our member venues there are numerous smaller hidden gem venues offering intimate charm and timeless elegance or bright modern compact spaces with natural daylight and stunning views. However, venues don’t have to be small in nature to offer fantastic options for smaller groups, whether it be for a boardroom meeting, team away day, private dinner, wedding ceremony or reception, your guests can also enjoy unique experiences in our world-renowned larger buildings, providing memorable events in unforgettable settings for all sizes.
Image credit: Old Royal Naval College @the_wardette_studio
When hosting a wedding or event at the Old Royal Naval College, you will find yourselves immersed in history, dating as far back as the Tudors, where King Henry VIII.
Once called his home, Admiral’s House offers intimate charm and rare versatility in traditional town-house style.
Gracing the banks of the River Thames, the timeless elegance and striking symmetry of this architectural masterpiece will enchant you and your guests from the very moment you arrive, creating memories to treasure forever, whatever the time of year.
Your event or wedding is a one-of-a-kind experience that deserves a venue like no other.
Image credit: Michael Molloy
Our Bickle Room isn’t just ideal for meetings or away days - it’s a versatile space that has used for everything, from London Fashion Week hairdressing to a pop star’s green room! Bright and airy, it’s filled with natural light and offers stunning views over London City Island.
Designed for modern working needs, the Bickle Room comes equipped with hybrid conferencing facilities, making it perfect for both in-person and virtual gatherings. Included in the hire are a large HD screen, quality speakers, free Wi-Fi, and a wireless AV sender, ensuring your presentations run smoothly.
The space comfortably accommodates up to 30 guests in classroom-style seating. Whether it’s a professional meeting, creative session, or special event, the Bickle Room combines functionality, comfort, and style for an unforgettable experience.
Image credit: Holly Clark Photography
The Handley Page Room, located on our second floor, is a bright and elegant space overlooking the terrace and Hyde Park. Steeped in history, it once served as a bedroom for the Duke of Wellington and, in 1939, became the setting for committee meetings of the Royal Aeronautical Society.
Though one of our more intimate rooms, it has hosted an impressive variety of occasions. From wedding ceremonies and private dinners to member lunches and small conferences, the Handley Page Room offers a versatile backdrop for both personal and professional gatherings.
In 2023, the room underwent a thoughtful refurbishment inspired by OMEGA’s Her Time event. The once red patterned carpet and gold curtains have given way to; soft cream tones and fresh finishes that have transformed the atmosphere, creating a lighter, more contemporary feel while preserving the room’s character.
A timeless blend of history and modern style, it’s ideal for memorable events.
Image credit: Lord's Cricket Ground
Host your next meeting or event in one of Lord’s Cricket Ground’s character-filled smaller spaces, each offering a unique experience in a world-renowned setting.
The Barclays Media Centre features floor-to-ceiling windows and panoramic views of the pitch and Pavilion. With exclusive access to the Writer’s and Journalist Areas, plus several boxes - it can host any style of event.
The Two Seven Eight Suite is a long conferencing space in the Grand Stand, with exclusive use and a dedicated catering area in the Father Time Gallery - ideal for seamless catering and refreshments for smaller/medium meetings
The President’s Suite offers a light-filled, contemporary space with glazed doors opening into the stand and stunning pitch views. Used by the MCC President on match days, it’s perfect for private lunch, dinners, or receptions.
The Writing Room, set within the elegant Grade II*-listed Pavilion, features a grand bay window overlooking the Ground and includes exclusive access to the Bowlers’ Bar and Old Library - a refined setting for any event.
Image credit: Harrow School
At Field House Club, we believe that the most memorable celebrations are often the most intimate. Set within our charming grounds, the Club offers a warm and inviting space perfectly suited for smaller weddings, family gatherings, or private celebrations. With its characterful interiors, natural light, and elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, it provides a beautiful backdrop for those who want to focus on meaningful moments with their closest guests.
The venue is ideal for gatherings of up to 20 guests, allowing couples and hosts to enjoy a more personal celebration without compromising on style. Whether it’s an intimate ceremony, a private dinner, or a smaller reception, our team ensures every detail is thoughtfully considered.
At Field House Club, “small” doesn’t mean less, it means more space to connect, more time to savour, and more room for memories that last a lifetime.
Image credit: Royal College of Music
The Parry Rooms at the Royal College of Music
In the vaulted, wood-panelled roof space of the Royal College of Music are the Parry Rooms: three versatile, interconnecting spaces for up to sixty guests per room. Filled with natural light and overlooking the Royal Albert Hall, they provide an intimate and distinctive setting for any event.
The rooms can be used individually or as a suite, offering flexibility for smaller gatherings. When booked as a full suite, one room can serve as an operational space for suppliers, keeping events running seamlessly behind the scenes. From meetings and workshops to recitals, receptions or dinners, practical features such as in-house AV support, sound-proofed doors and step-free access keep planning simple, so you can focus on your guests.
Set in the heart of South Kensington’s ‘Albertopolis’, the Parry Rooms bring together history, character and convenience in one memorable venue. Email VenueHire@rcm.ac.uk to find out more.
Image credit: The Goldsmiths’ Centre
Discover the Goldsmiths’ Centre’s Intimate Spaces
When it comes to unforgettable gatherings, smaller really can be more special. Tucked just a stone’s throw from Farringdon station, the Goldsmiths’ Centre offers a collection of stylish, light-filled spaces for 10 to 55 guests — perfect creative workshops, board meetings, product launches and for intimate dinners and drinks receptions with a twist.
Choose the characterful Board Room or Creative Base (up to 28 guests each) or wow your guests in the Agas Harding Conference Room (up to 52 guests), complete with its own rooftop terrace and stunning London skyline views.
What’s better, every booking supports a unique charity, nurturing the next generation of jewellers, silversmiths and craftspeople. You’ll even get to see their extraordinary talent firsthand in our on-site exhibitions — a sparkling reminder that at the Goldsmiths’ Centre, small really is beautiful.
Image credit: Cutty Sark
Our collection of museum venues offers out of this world intimate settings that bring history and elegance to every celebration. You could host an elegant drinks reception for up 15 guests on the Queen’s House Loggia with stunning views across the greenery of Greenwich Park; or an unforgettable dinner in the Master’s Saloon aboard the legendary Cutty Sark, an exclusive dining experience unlike any other for up to 10 guests. Or even elevate your event with a private talk from one of our expert astronomers over cocktails and canapés in the impressive Great Equatorial Telescope space at the Royal Observatory for up to 25 guests.
With our iconic Grade I listed spaces and unforgettable settings, we’ll help you design a one-of-a-kind experience tailored to you whether you’re organising a formal dining experience, celebrating a company milestone or a private occasion!
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: 60 Great Queen Street
Whilst 60 Great Queen Street is renowned for its impressive scale and grandeur, there are also options for smaller groups within the versatile spaces. Among these, the Old Boardroom stands out as a distinguished choice for corporate events. With capacity for up to 60 delegates, the space is ideally suited to meetings, training sessions, seminars and workshops that call for a refined yet functional environment. Boasting original wood panelling and striking stained-glass windows casting natural light, the space provides an inspiring backdrop for discussion and collaboration.
The Old Boardroom seamlessly balances historic character with practical adaptability, ensuring it can accommodate a variety of business needs. Perfect for companies seeking a memorable and distinguished setting in the heart of Covent Garden.
Image credit: The British Library
Hold an intimate meeting in the British Library’s Boardroom Suite rooms
When you want to hold a meeting with impact but without the crowd, the rooms in the Boardroom Suite at the British Library are a superb choice. Nestled on the fourth floor and accessed by a private lift, these rooms blend heritage charm with modern business facilities.
Designed for groups of 4 to 32 people, the Boardroom Suite includes the main Boardroom (ideal for up to 32), complemented by smaller rooms. The Cotton and Harley Rooms hold up to 12 people, the Burney Room holds eight, and the compact Sloane Room holds four. All are perfect for interviews, breakout sessions or discreet discussions.
Talk to the team about additional requirements such as catering. Choose from an array of options such as our tea, coffee and home baked cookies for smaller gatherings.
Our smaller meeting rooms are bathed in natural daylight and enhanced with modern AV equipment. With stately decor, historic artworks, and refined atmosphere, these rooms make a powerful setting whether it’s for executive meetings, private dinners or high-level presentations.
To enquire about hiring one or more of these meeting rooms for your next small event, contact the events team at centraleventsteam@bl.uk. To find out more, head to the website.
Image credit: Alex Merz
Somerset House offers a collection of smaller-scale spaces that are ideal for more intimate events. The Navy Board Rooms, with their 18th-century period features, can host dinners for up to 50 guests, making them well-suited for celebrations or meetings. Meanwhile, the Lightwells & Deadhouse offer a unique, atmospheric setting for up to 36 guests for dining, showcasing the historic architecture of Somerset House in a unique environment.
Alongside these spaces, Somerset House also offers smaller meeting rooms for up to 20 guests, and a Screening Room package for up to 60 guests, ideal for presentations. Back-of-house areas are also available onsite to support filming requirements, offering flexible production spaces.
Onsite food and beverage outlets, including private dining options, provide further opportunities for hosting groups in a more intimate setting.
Image credit: Royal Institution
Although we are known for our historic Theatre and book-lined corridors, the Royal Institution is also home to a selection of intimate rooms for events of 30 people or less.
The Writing room benefits from large floor to ceiling windows overlooking Albemarle Street, bathing the space in natural light, ideal for intimate meetings, interviews or briefings. Conveniently located by the main reception, the Sunley room is perfect for smaller meetings and workshops as well as intimate dinners and board meetings.
Located on the First Floor, the Speaker’s room is one of our heritage rooms bathed in natural light and adorned with antique décor. The Speaker's Room is a favourite for filming and serves as an excellent meeting space for small corporate away-days.
Please contact venuehire@ri.ac.uk for more information.
Image credit: 30 Euston Square
Seating up to 45 for a private dining experience, our Heritage Rooms may be small, but they add a classic touch of elegance to any meeting. Each room features original oak panelling, high ceilings, and period details that create a unique and sophisticated backdrop, complemented by modern AV capabilities and natural daylight.
The historic charm of these rooms creates a warm and memorable environment, blending the building’s legacy with contemporary comforts. For dining events in these stunning spaces, you’ll enjoy seasonal menus curated by our in-house catering team that consist of sustainably sourced ingredients.
From the grandeur of the Princes Gate Room to the intimate charm of the Beresford Pite Room, these rooms provide the perfect backdrop for any intimate evening that is uplifted by the astounding food served by our chefs.
Image credit: RSA House
The Tavern room at RSA House: 32 boardroom, 42 for dinner or 60 for a reception.
Once part of the original Adelphi Tavern where the RSA’s founders dined in 1772, the Tavern Room remains a place where ideas, conversation and good company come together. Rich with literary and political heritage, the room pays tribute to thinkers from across all ideologies, including a modern portrait of Karl Marx by artist Christian Furr, a nod to the blue plaque that now marks his former home nearby on Dean Street. Even Charles Dickens referenced the Adelphi Tavern in The Pickwick Papers, capturing the same spirit of lively debate and sociable exchange that still defines the space today.
With its Georgian detailing, high ceilings, large sash windows and elegant period fireplace, the Tavern Room is ideal for private dinners, meetings and receptions Whether used in conjunction with the adjoining Muse cocktail bar or as a stand-alone event space, it offers a setting steeped in history yet perfectly suited to contemporary gatherings.
Image credit: Museum of Brands
Intimate Event Spaces at the Museum of Brands
The Museum of Brands in Notting Hill offers a bright, flexible Conference Space ideal for away days, innovation sessions and meetings for 10 to 40 attendees. Featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, indoor grass, built-in AV, and a private adjacent area for catering or breakouts, the space provides a creative and informal atmosphere for focused discussions.
Delegates can explore the inspiring Time Tunnel – showcasing 200 years of branding and packaging – or relax in the museum’s hidden garden between sessions. For evening or breakfast events, the stylish Brands Hall offers an intimate setting for dinners or clients’ engagement, framed by the museum’s temporary exhibition.
Conveniently located just off Portobello Road, the venue is easily accessible for leadership meetings, client pitches, and creative workshops. Scalable for smaller groups while maintaining a personal feel, it’s a unique space designed to elevate any professional gathering.
Enquiries: maria@museumofbrands.com
Image credit: Upper Drawing Room - Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery is a fitting addition to this selection of venues that celebrate the beauty of smaller gatherings. Nestled beside Walpole Park, it offers a choice of intimate spaces that combine historic charm with a sense of quiet elegance.
The Conservatory, with its views over the park, provides a light-filled setting for ceremonies of up to 32 guests. Just upstairs, the Upper Drawing Room offers space for up to 44 guests, where hand-drawn Chinese wallpaper adds a distinctive and thoughtful backdrop.
Pitzhanger is a place where smaller numbers don’t mean less impact, just more space for detail, atmosphere, and meaningful connection.
Image credit: National Theatre
For an intimate yet impressive setting, the Foyle Room at the National Theatre offers a versatile space with unbeatable views. Flooded with natural light from floor-to-ceiling windows, this elegant room overlooks the River Thames, providing a striking backdrop for any gathering.
Perfectly suited to smaller groups, the Foyle Room accommodates up to 20 guests in a boardroom layout or 35 for a standing reception. Its flexibility makes it ideal for client meetings, team away days, private dining, or networking events that call for a stylish, central London location.
Guests can also enjoy a wide variety of catering options, tailored to the occasion. From energising working lunches to beautifully presented canapés and drinks, the in-house team ensures every detail is covered.
With its combination of inspiring views, central location and thoughtful hospitality, the Foyle Room is a hidden gem within the National Theatre: small in scale, big in impact.
Find out more about Events at the National Theatre, or latest availability by emailing events@nationaltheatre.org.uk.
Image credit: Matt Chung Photography
Small meetings with big impact
Step into the Smith Centre, located within the iconic Science Museum, a beautifully restored 1890s building that mixes historic charm with modern functionality. With four characterful rooms, including a sleek boardroom for up to 30 guests, it’s perfect for executive sessions, creative workshops, or private briefings.
Tech-savvy and stylish, each room features Wi-Fi and conferencing capabilities that won’t let you down. And when it’s time to take five? The open-plan courtyard is ideal for coffee breaks, canapé-fuelled chats, or even a post-meeting dinner under the stars.
For more information click here: The Smith Centre - Hire The Science Museum or contact the team to enquire: venuehire@sciencemuseum.ac.uk / 020 7942 4340.
Image credit: Tower of London
Medieval Palace
The palace within a palace: the Medieval Palace at the Tower of London, collectively made up of St Thomas' Tower, the Wakefield Tower and the Lanthorn Tower is one of the hidden gems of the Historic Royal Palaces portfolio. Built on the riverside over Traitor's Gate, the Medieval Palace lies at the heart of what was formerly the residential area of the Tower; richly decorated and atmospheric, they were grand enough for any Medieval monarch.
Ideal for drinks receptions and intimate dinners, guests can experience breathtaking views of Tower Bridge and the River Thames from the historic battlements. The Medieval Palace can accommodate up to 80 guests for a drinks reception or 40 for a seated dinner. Please note the Medieval Palace is currently only available to hire from May to September.
Image credit: London Museum Docklands
Boardroom meetings with a view
The Boardroom at London Museum Docklands offers a refined, intimate setting in the heart of Canary Wharf that’s perfect for senior management meetings, private dinners or creative sessions of up to 20 guests.
Located on the top floor of the Grade I listed warehouse, the boardroom offers panoramic views of the skyline and combines historic charm with modern comfort. Exposed brickwork, timber beams, and natural light create a warm, characterful backdrop for any occasion.
Whether you're hosting a high-level strategy session or an exclusive evening event, the Boardroom delivers a unique blend of heritage and sophistication - ideal for clients looking to impress in a truly distinctive London venue.
To book the Boardroom at London Museum Docklands, contact the team: venuehire@londonmuseum.org.uk
Image credit: London Museum Spaces
A small space with big impact
The Terrace Boardroom at 150 London Wall is a refined space designed for small but impactful meetings. With capacity for up to 12 guests, it’s ideal for executive discussions, team strategy sessions, or client presentations that call for privacy and exclusivity.
This intimate room combines contemporary functionality with a touch of heritage charm. A built-in plasma screen and laptop connectivity make presentations seamless, while the setting adds a sense of occasion to even the most focused agenda.
Located within the museum’s Terrace Rooms suite, the Boardroom also offers access to a tranquil garden terrace, perfect for breaks or networking in the fresh air.
To book the Terrace Boardroom, contact the team: venuehire@londonmuseum.org.uk
Image credit: Two by Two
The Earth’s Treasury at the Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum isn’t just home to creatures awe-inspiring in size. From dinosaurs the size of labradors to tiny gemstones, small is also beautiful and fascinating.
The same can also be said of its venue spaces. Alongside the iconic Hintze Hall, the Museum also offers smaller, more intimate spaces for hire, such as the Earth’s Treasury gallery.
The Earth’s Treasury gallery is home to glittering displays of unique specimens, from gold nuggets to Stonehenge rock, making it a stunning space to host a sophisticated soiree.
Sparkling conversation amongst your guests will be mirrored by the sparkling specimens on display. Seated amongst a rainbow of gemstones, from sapphire and rubies to emeralds, guests can discover how diamonds are formed and cut and marvel at minerals that glow gently in the dark.
The size and style of this gallery make it a great fit for elegant, intimate dinners and receptions.
Image credit: Sir John Soane’s Museum
Sir John Soane’s Museum, the UK’s smallest national museum, is a masterpiece of architectural design in which every inch of space is ingeniously used to create maximum effect. From the famous Picture Room, for which Soane used moving ‘picture planes’ to allow him to hang a small 13-by-12-foot room with 118 paintings, a collection large enough for a room three times its size, to the hundreds of mirrors throughout the Museum which create the illusion of spaciousness, guests will delight in the spatial magic hiding around every corner of this small museum.
The perfect setting to host an intimate dinner for up to 30 colleagues, friends, or family members, this house museum is the epitome of small is beautiful.
To arrange an Exclusive Dinner, Drinks Reception or Candlelit Tour please email events@soane.org.uk
Image credit: No.11 Cavendish Square
Intimate Elegance at No.11 Cavendish Square
Looking to host a stylish event for fewer than 40 guests? No.11 Cavendish Square offers a collection of beautifully appointed rooms perfect for intimate gatherings, private meetings, and boutique receptions. From the contemporary charm of the Chris Ham room to the historic ambiance of the President’s Room, each space is designed to impress while maintaining a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you're planning a board meeting, a private dinner, or a creative workshop, our versatile rooms can be tailored to suit your needs. Natural light, period features, and advanced AV facilities ensure both comfort and functionality. With dedicated support from our events team and catering options to match every taste, your small-scale event will be seamless and memorable.
Discover the perfect setting for your next gathering at No.11 Cavendish Square—where elegance meets intimacy.
To discuss which of the rooms would be perfect for your intimate event please contact a member of the team on 020 7307 2474 or venue@11cavendishsq.com
Image credit: the Design Museum
Small but spectacular spaces at the Design Museum
The Chumsri & Luqman Lounge, designed by Universal Design Studio, offers some of the best views in the museum and is perfect for intimate gatherings. This long and impressive room is ideal for daytime drinks receptions, product launches, or seated lunches for up to 45 guests standing or 34 seated at one long table.
In the evening, the lounge can be booked independently or as part of a larger event, providing an exclusive and inspiring space for VIPs.
The lounge is a design lover’s dream -it features a unique collection of Philip Sayer photographs showcasing 30 legendary designers, a fixed polished pewter bar, and Barber Osgerby designed furniture. Thoughtfully designed and beautifully presented, the Chumsri & Luqman Lounge proves that small really can be spectacular.
For more information, visit the link in bio or contact venuehire@designmuseum.org
Image credit: The HAC
Discover intimate elegance at the HAC
The HAC offers two elegant spaces for smaller gatherings in central London – the Queen’s Room and Ante Room. Tucked away within Armoury House, these rooms provide a refined setting for private lunches, dinners, or drinks receptions. Each room accommodates up to 40 guests, offering a sophisticated backdrop for meetings, celebrations, or VIP events.
Guests can enjoy the historic interiors, which combine classic design with subtle touches that reflect the HAC’s rich heritage. High ceilings and carefully considered layouts create a welcoming and inspiring environment for events.
These spaces are perfect for independent use or as part of a larger event, allowing clients to host gatherings with comfort and exclusivity. The Queen’s Room and Ante Room prove that small spaces can still leave a lasting impression.
To discover more about the Queen’s Room, Ante Room, and other unique spaces at the HAC, visit our Venue Spaces page or contact our events team to book a tour: sales@hac.org.uk/ 020 7382 1533.
Venue Hire Central London | The Honourable Artillery Company
Unique Venues of London
Henwood House
Henwood
Ashford
TN24 8DH