This month we’ve been thinking about the power of the network and how it’s not always what you know, but who you know that can turn a vision into a reality.
To highlight just how connected the Unique Venues of London membership are, here are the 6 degrees of separation which emphasises the interwoven history and future of some of London’s most iconic venues.
The Royal Hospital Chelsea was founded 1682 by Charles II as a home for 'veterans broken by age and war'. The stunning grounds offer 66 acres in the heart of fashionable Chelsea as well as some of the capitals most breath-taking spaces including its newest addition Wren House, named in homage of its designer, Sir Christopher Wren.
As one of the capital’s most revered architects, Christopher Wren was in high demand during his life. As such he was given the privilege of designing St Paul’s Cathedral, a building which today is globally recognised symbol of London and stands proudly as a distinguished member of the city’s skyline. As well as world-beating event spaces the site is still a fully functioning religious location having hosted events such as the 90th birthday of Queen Elizabeth II.
St Paul’s Cathedral is not the only religious venue in the Unique Venues of London portfolio. LSO St Luke’s is a Grade I Hawksmoor church repurposed to be the home of the renowned London Symphony Orchestra. The venue’s charming interior offers one of London’s most atmospheric live events locations and has become a musical institution in the capital.
From one Grade I listed building to another, what has been described as the ‘keeper of the world’s knowledge’ The British Library, was founded on London’s Euston Road. The venues location is one of the capital’s most sought-after, boasting two of the UK’s best connected stations within walking distance. As one of the world’s largest repositories of information, the British Library contains collections spanning 3000 years of cultural history with notable works including the Magna Carta and Shakespeare's first folio.
Located on the banks of the River Thames, this ancient playhouse offers the ideal venue for creative event planners looking to wow. The building has played host to some of the finest actors, writers and performers to ever take to the stage and with panoramic views of the river and across to the City, Shakespeare’s Globe is a venue engrained in the mind of Londoners.
From one icon of the era to another, Banqueting House has seen its fair share of notable Britons. King Charles I for example was famously led through the galleries of the building on his way to the executioner. Designed to provide an appropriate setting for a new and elaborate type of court amusement, Banqueting House is a natural home for entertaining as boasts a legacy of incredible events which continues to this day.