The Art of Venue Selection at Park Lane Events
One of the best parts of my role at Park Lane Events is the opportunity that I have to visit some of the very best venues that our capital has to offer. A key part of venue finding is being familiar with a property before proposing it to my clients and so I do try and get to visit as many as I can – websites are a great source of information but there’s no substitute for meeting with their event’s team in-person and experiencing all that the venue has to offer first-hand.
Raffles London: A Synonym for Luxury
I recently had the opportunity to visit two fabulous properties in London that I am delighted to share with you. First up is Raffles London, boasting a super-central postcode, this amazing property really does tick all the boxes when it comes to five-star luxury. Dating back to 1887, the award-winning Raffles brand has long since been synonymous with luxury and sophistication; from their very first property, a 10 bedroom bungalow-style hotel in Singapore, they have gradually expanded over the decades and can now be found in over 20 destinations worldwide.
Raffles London at The OWO: A New Icon in Hospitality
The much-awaited opening of Raffles London at the OWO (Old War Office) as their first property in the UK not only provides a major boost to the hospitality industry but is also a really exciting option for all of us eventprofs! With Horse Guards Parade, Buckingham Palace, St James’s Park, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey all within walking distance and Waterloo/Charing Cross train stations on the doorstep, this unique Whitehall hotel is the perfect base from which to explore all that London has to offer. When it comes to events, they’re able to accommodate larger celebrations for up to 600 in their stunning Whitehall Ballroom down to smaller events in their six additional meeting rooms. Add to this an impressive 85 unique private residences, nine restaurants including those led by renowned Chef Mauro Colagreco, three iconic bars and Guerlain’s first London Spa, guests and delegates really will be spoilt for choice…plus you can be assured of the highest levels of service and attention to detail that the brand is so famous for.
Peninsula London: Defining Sophistication in Belgravia
Next up is the Peninsula London which can be found in the heart of Belgravia; another five-star property that oozes style, luxury and sophistication! Newly-built, this hotel occupies another prestigious address with many of its 190 rooms and suites boasting floor-to-ceiling views of Hyde Park Corner, Wellington Arch, and the beautiful buildings of Belgravia.
Peninsula’s Versatile Event Spaces
Their impressive event space can be found in their lower basement and ranges from their grand and spacious St. George Ballroom which can accommodate up to 450 to a relaxed private cinema room for 15. There’s even a Grand Terrace Suite featuring an expansive alfresco terrace with striking views over Belgravia – perfect for exclusive events for up to 80 with a wow factor!
Culinary and Leisure Highlights at Peninsula London
For me, the real highlight of their event space is their Michelin star rooftop Brooklands restaurant where guests can enjoy the culinary delights of Claude Bosi whilst taking in the breathtaking views from the 8th floor across London’s iconic landmarks. There’s also the super-stylish Brooklands Bar which is perfect for a pre-dinner drink and the Tasting Room cigar lounge, an elegant and relaxed space for the enjoyment of finely curated cigars, with a backdrop dedicated to the world of fine motorcars. Or maybe you just prefer to stay on ground level and watch the world go by from their boutique and café where you can enjoy coffee, light lunches and patisserie treats.
Conclusion: Your Gateway to Luxury Venues
I’m so excited at the prospect of working with both of these stunning properties and know that my clients and their events will be in the very best hands. If you’re looking for a luxury venue in London and the surrounding area for your next event, why not check out my new web page on New London Venues or if you’d like some help finding the perfect venue then do drop me a line and I would be very happy to help.