As lockdown progresses, we continue to be impressed with the creativity and ingenuity of London’s event venues. From helping with frontline needs, offering virtual alternatives or opening brand new spaces in the face of adversity the event industry is finding ways to adapt. We’ve summarised some of the most innovative adaptations below…
Virtual Tours
With the current ban on non essential face-to-face meetings many venues have taken their marketing offering digital with virtual tours of their spaces. Here are our current favourites:
133 Houndsditch is part of the etc Venues collection of contemporary, multi-functional conference spaces. Opening last year and located near Liverpool street, it boasts a state-of-the-art conference and exhibition space spanning two floors. It is also etc Venues’ largest space to date and can accommodate up to 700 delegates theatre style.
133 Houndsditch Virtual Tour – The website not only provides detailed floor plans, but also has the capability to view the space virtually. Harnessing the same technology as Google Street View it offers complete visual access to every room. Clients can get a feel for how their event would run. Seeing room size and layouts, position of the windows and the functionality of the AV equipment. It is also possible to gauge the proximity to the venue’s restaurants, lifts or further breakout spaces. Lastly, the site also allows web visitors to click on a room on the floor plan and immediately be transported into that space. Thus, making exploration as seamless as possible.
The Museum of London is perfect if you are looking for something iconic. Based near the Barbican and St Paul’s, it tells the story of the capital, from its first settlers right through to modern times. Opened in 1976, the museum vividly paints a picture of the city and its people – with help from the largest archaeological archive in the world! Whether you require a conference room for 230 delegates, a spectacular venue for a seated awards dinner or are looking for a truly memorable setting for a VIP drinks reception, the museum has a unique space for any occasion.
Museum of London Virtual Tour– takes viewers on an (online) stroll through the magnificent Entrance Hall, the fascinating and versatile gallery spaces, the ambient 17th Century Pleasure Gardens, the People’s City Gallery and the striking London Ellipse Hall, perfect for hosting all types of events.
Sister venue, The Museum of London Docklands is a historical venue set against the backdrop of the futuristic Canary Wharf. Similarly, this venue’s virtual tour takes visitors through the venues spaces, including the refurbished Wilberforce Room, the Muscovado Hall, the No.1 Warehouse Gallery, and the Rum Store which includes direct access to the terrace.
Incipio Group, have a focus on beautiful spaces that escape the ordinary by bringing the outside in. You can virtually tour their flagship venues Pergola Paddington and Pergola Olympia online with ease. Incipio’s West London collections also include The Prince as well as their most recent opening in Kensington, Bloom.
Virtual tours provide an excellent method of immersing visitors, Incipio Group have taken this a step further by also offering a viewing option in VR! This new technology opens doors to venues, literally and figuratively; crucially giving event planners an opportunity to look towards the future. The tours provide a great sense of space, atmosphere and are guaranteed to showcase the venues in their best light – try it today, you might discover something new!
New Openings
As we approach an easing of lockdown rules, a number of smaller venues are hoping to launch in late 2020 or early 2021.
Boutique hotel, The NoMad London, will be the first to open this side of the pond taking residence in the heart of Covent Garden. Based inside the historic, grade II-listed building famously known as The Bow Street Magistrates’ Court and Police Station, this venue is full of character. Perfect for a quirky getaway with minimal travelling or even a murder mystery team building event.
The Cheese Barge, will be situated in Paddington Central, proudly offering some of the best British cheese. They are keen to revive traditional cheese making in this country as it not only supports our farmers and rural communities, it also helps to strengthen local economies across the country. We think this will be a novel twist on a classic tasting experience!
However, if you can’t wait until their new water-bound space opens, your cheesy prayers have been answered. They are currently facilitating Self Isolation Survival Kits in London as well as mail order deliveries across the UK.
Park Row is an immersive DC-inspired restaurant experience Wonderland Restaurants. Their partnership with Warner Bros will bring some of our favourite comic book heroes and villains to life in the heart of Soho alongside a delicious multi-sensory menu. This is an ongoing trend for the hospitality sector which is sure to reignite passion and excitement into your employees.
Frontline Needs
Last, but certainly not least, we’re all aware of some of the great steps the events industry are taking to assist with frontline needs. So, we wanted to acknowledge some of the fantastic venues in London and beyond; Olympia, which has been turned into a food bank distribution centre,The O2 Arena that is now a NHS training ground and of course the seven venues which have transformed into Nightingale Hospitals.
During these uncertain times we’re looking to support our event partners in any way we can. Want to find out more about our wonderful suppliers or how you could help your community? Please get in touch on 02078709303 or via e-mail [email protected] We can’t wait to here from you!
