Unique Venues of London (UVL) is a collective association of extraordinary venues across London. Originally founded in 1993 with 18 members, today Unique Venues of London brings together over 80 of London’s most remarkable and culturally significant venues that are renowned for delivering exceptional service and hosting distinct and memorable events.
UVL as a collective hosts venues for every event, be it a company meeting, awards ceremony, gala receptions and dinner or an intimate lunch, wedding or family occasion. Galleries, libraries, dining rooms, gardens and courtyards are plentiful across London to achieve the perfect backdrop for any event.
Beyond the magnificent choice, what really sets the venues apart from others is the impressive added value opportunities that can enhance an event. From private views with curator talks to backstage tours, treasure hunts to team building challenges, each event can be tailor made for all to enjoy.
With a not-for-profit structure UVL ensures the focus remains on connecting individuals, companies, event agents, and suppliers with exceptional venues. When you work with Unique Venues of London, you’re connecting directly with the venues themselves, unlocking some of London’s best-kept secrets and creating unforgettable experiences for your guests.
Many of the venues you will recognise as iconic London landmarks, including the Tower of London, Royal Opera House, The National Gallery, Royal Albert Hall, Kensington Palace and the Natural History Museum to name but a few, however with UVL’s annual membership fees scaled according to each venue’s annual turnover, it thus allows for a more inclusive representation of venues, regardless of the organisation’s size or capacity. It is therefore able to showcase some of London’s most beautiful and fascinating venues which are often referred to as ‘Hidden Gems’.
These ‘Hidden Gem’ venues vary in size, style and can be found all across London’s fascinating landscape. Each with its own interesting story, you could for example hold your event in a historic 18th century villa with over 300 years of discovery, inspiration and delight. Learn about the history of a grade II- listed building, where the artist William Hogarth and the composer George Frideric Handel played a big part in realising its original vision. Tread the same floors on which Kings and Queens have danced well before your own party.
Alternatively a ‘Hidden Gem’ can mean holding an outdoor event in one of London’s oldest botanic gardens, allowing your guests to experience an event in a hidden oasis of biodiversity or learn more about London’s wildlife in a unique urban nature reserve found in a bustling part of the city. As one of the most verdant capital cities in the world, London has so many glorious parklands, beautiful landscape gardens, rooftop terraces, elaborate glasshouses and hidden courtyards to discover.
To find out more about the hidden gems, tucked away within London, here you are some examples of these venues and how they have been used for events.
1. Chelsea Physic Garden
Chelsea Physic Garden is London’s oldest botanic garden and a unique, hidden sanctuary for biodiversity. Enclosed by tall stone walls and towering laurel and acer trees, you see nothing of the Garden until you have stepped inside it. And within this four-acre grounds lies one of the world’s foremost and pioneering independent plant collections, comprising 5,000 different plant taxa, and cultivated over 350 years of horticultural science.
Founded in 1673 as an apothecary’s garden—at a time when most of Chelsea was heavily wooded hunting ground—the Garden has remains untouched by the sprawling growth of the city around it. It is the only botanic garden worldwide solely devoted to growing medicinal, useful and edible plants.
From the historic Pond Rockery, with its volcanic rock and giant clam shells, to the tropical plants lining our Victorian glasshouses; the Medicinal Garden and Dicotyledon System beds; Ginkgo trees, herbs and spices, carnivorous and poisonous plants, fruiting olives, palms and pomegranates; and the terraces and woodland peripheries that enclose two spacious lawns—the Garden casts a truly beautiful backdrop to an event of any kind, and bestows a character unique amongst any other venue so close to central London.
One such occasion was Secret Garden, a grand summer party for 500 held during the glowing Chelsea Flower Show, and delivered to perfection by the Admirable Crichton. The menu used only what was growing at the Garden at the time—including grapefruit, agave, wild blackcurrant and an array of botanicals that guests could hand-pick themselves at a gin bar dressed in ivy and ferns. A dynamic and modest production set-up allowed the Garden’s natural elegance to blossom by itself—without giant floral arches, plastic urns or dizzying lights. And the tranquillity and colour of the early summer sunshine offered a welcomed respite from the hustle of city life.
https://www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk/venue/chelsea-physic-garden
For further information on any of these ‘Hidden Gem’ venues and others within Unique Venues of London view www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk
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2. Chiswick House & Gardens
This historic House and Gardens offers a precious green oasis in West London, with 65-acres of beautiful grounds and a working 17th century Kitchen Garden.
Gifford’s Circus, one of the UK’s most beloved and unique traveling circuses, has become a standout annual event at Chiswick House and Gardens, with their historic venue and gardens providing a characterful and memorable backdrop for Giffords’ enchanting performances. 2025, their 25th anniversary performance, will mark their ninth year here!
Last year, the circus staged its highly successful Avalon show in our grounds, blending acrobatics, clowning, and breathtaking aerial displays with a strong narrative and evocative set designs and magical atmosphere.
The success of Avalon not only highlighted Giffords’ ability to create intimate, uniquely-themed experiences – each year the show manages to be completely different! – but also showcased their exceptional talent for blending traditional circus elements with contemporary artistry. Audiences were treated to a unique blend of comedy, physical theatre, and stunning circus skills, all set against the idyllic backdrop of our beautiful gardens.
Building on this success, the upcoming Laguna Bay show promises to captivate audiences once again. Set in a 1950s coastal paradise, Laguna Bay will explore themes of adventure and escapism, with a lineup of high-flying acrobats, dazzling dancers, and eccentric clowns making it a must-see event in West London’s cultural calendar.
Over the years Chiswick House & Gardens events and marketing teams have built a strong relationship with Giffords, working together on promotional activities, including on-site postering, local marketing and social media ticket giveaways, and making sure the teams keep each other in the loop at all times when it comes to on-site logistics. This positive relationship has helped ensure Giffords are keen to return here year on year, with their noting that: “The tent [at Chiswick House & Gardens] is always packed out with jostling school children, family gatherings, hen parties and London glitterati, all keen to get in on the action. Chiswick House is a calm oasis surrounded by bustling city life and we love it.”
https://www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk/venue/chiswick-house-gardens
For further information on any of these ‘Hidden Gem’ venues and others within Unique Venues of London view www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk
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3. Foundling Museum
Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, the Foundling Museum offers a unique and meaningful setting for events, combining historic surroundings with cultural philanthropy. In December 2024, the Museum welcomed the Big Give for an early evening celebration marking the close of their annual Christmas Challenge campaign.
Held on 11th December, the event brought together around 150 guests – including philanthropists, charity partners, and supporters – to celebrate the record-breaking results of the 2024 campaign, which raised over £33 million for more than 1,000 charities.
Having partnered with the Foundling Museum on matched funding campaigns in recent years, including the Big Give Christmas Challenge 2024, it was such a pleasure hosting the Big Give team at the Museum – this time as their chosen venue for their annual flagship event. Guests enjoyed an array of experiences; from sipping Beeble cocktails and sampling honey with Bees for Development, to listening to Lemn Sissay’s poetry and swimming with manta rays through Manta Trust’s immersive VR headset. It was a memorable evening of celebration, connection, and shared commitment to making a difference.
Testimonial from Big Give: “We wanted to send you a massive heartfelt thank you for all your support, communication and organisation in the past few months, all culminating in our event on Wednesday. It was a lovely evening and the perfect way to celebrate our record-breaking Christmas Challenge. Many of our guests were inspired by the space and enjoyed learning about the Foundling Museum. You have all been an absolute pleasure to work with.”
https://www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk/venue/foundling-museum
For further information on any of these ‘Hidden Gem’ venues and others within Unique Venues of London view www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk
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4. Two Temple Place
Built in 1895 for William Waldorf Astor, Two Temple Place is one of central London’s most exclusive venues. Overlooking the Thames, this hidden gem of Victorian architecture combines grandeur with intimacy, offering easy access to the city and the West End. Inside, its breathtaking design features a sweeping staircase, intricate stained-glass windows, a striking hammer beam ceiling, and ornate marble fireplaces, creating a truly unforgettable setting.
In November 2024, the Two Temple Place Events Team had the pleasure of hosting the official afterparty for the highly anticipated UK premiere of Wicked. Welcoming cast members, industry professionals, and high profile guests to celebrate the film’s release.
Two Temple Place was transformed into an enchanting, emerald-green wonderland, immersing guests in the magic of Oz. A striking ‘W’ took centre stage in the Great Hall, while ambient lighting and themed décor brought the world of Wicked to life. Stunning floral arrangements by Mary Jane Vaughan featured an emerald-green urn overflowing with pink hydrangeas, roses, and lisianthus, perfectly capturing the contrast of Elphaba and Glinda’s worlds.
Guests enjoyed a bespoke cocktail menu inspired by the film’s beloved characters. A selection of gourmet canapés, bowl food, and themed desserts, all curated by AP&Co, completed the indulgent experience.
With high-profile attendees, security and privacy were top priorities. The team at Two Temple Place worked closely with event planners to ensure seamless check-ins, discreet VIP areas, and a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere.
Hosting the Wicked afterparty at Two Temple Place was a truly magical experience, and they were delighted to provide a setting as spectacular as the film itself.
https://www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk/venue/two-temple-place
For further information on any of these ‘Hidden Gem’ venues and others within Unique Venues of London view www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk
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5. Syon Park
One of the most beautiful country estates in England – and the last privately owned one in London – Syon Park is the ideal location for any event. Built in the 16th century on the site of a medieval abbey, Syon stands amidst 200 acres of Capability Brown parkland. Peaceful enough to feel like an oasis of calm, and yet only a stone’s throw from Central London.
This stunning venue was the location for a recent unique event which showcased a special collaboration between Prestons diamonds and Rolex watches.
The client came to the venue, looking for a unique space for this special one-off event and the Great Conservatory was the perfect fit, as a marvel in iron and glass, it is a wondrous setting for any event.
A hundred guests arrived via the main drive of Syon House, into the formal gardens where they were served champagne and canapes to the sound of a floating saxophonist. They then moved through to dinner via the cactus wing passing bespoke built display cabinets showcasing the stunning products.
Guests were seated on opulent long gold tables with low level florals and tapered candles and served a delicious 3 course menu to the melody of a 5-piece jazz band. The band were positioned on a bespoke round stage, whilst the guests dined under the striking central dome. After dinner guests mingled with a digestif and had the opportunity to examine the watches further, whilst liaising with the Preston diamonds team. At the end of the evening, guests departed from a beautifully lit conservatory in stunning Rolex green.
https://www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk/venue/syon-park
For further information on any of these ‘Hidden Gem’ venues and others within Unique Venues of London view www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk
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6. Camley Street Natural Park
Sitting on the banks of the Regents Canal, this two-acre wildlife haven is our most central venue. With King’s Cross and St. Pancras on our doorstep, this location makes it a perfect venue for wildlife lovers looking for a convenient city destination.
A product launch from the height of last summer in their Kingfisher Suite and Canopy was a resounding success, creating an unforgettable experience for our guests. By opening the floor-to-ceiling doors, they seamlessly integrated the stunning natural beauty of the adjacent nature reserve and calming canal into the event. Attendees enjoyed champagne and canapés while soaking in the picturesque views, followed by engaging presentations and further networking as the sun gracefully set. From champagne receptions to sunset cocktails, Camley Street Natural Park offers a unique and memorable backdrop for any occasion.
“The event was great, everyone enjoyed themselves and we had a lot of positive comments about the choice of venue. The setting was great and despite the heat the venue seemed much cooler than the surrounding areas (thanks trees!).”
https://www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk/venue/camley-street-natural-park
For further information on any of these ‘Hidden Gem’ venues and others within Unique Venues of London view www.uniquevenuesoflondon.co.uk
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Author: Adam Parry
Adam is the co-founder and editor of www.eventindustrynews.com Adam, a technology evangelist also organises Event Tech Live, Europe’s only show dedicated to event technology and the Event Technology Awards. Both events take place in November, London.
