10 London Based Summer Party Ideas

Have you been tasked with organising this year’s summer party? Whether you’re sorting out a work summer party, or having a big birthday celebration – there’s so many options to explore.

Where should you get started when looking for a summer party venue in london? And what vibe do you want to go for? We’ve done the legwork and are here to make your job easier. Get inspired by these 10 London-based summer party ideas. From chilled-out soirees to activity-packed events, there’s plenty to explore and get inspired by.

1. Attend an outdoor cinema evening

Relax under the stars at an outdoor cinema night. Catch a cult classic or enjoy the latest blockbuster with Skylight cinema. They provide inflatable, pop-up, and mobile cinema hire services, so you can set up where you want! Provide guests with Pimms, popcorn, and blankets, and unwind after the work week.

2. Play a few rounds of Crazy Golf at Swingers

Fun, food, and fizz? Check these all off at Swingers Crazy Golf. Our venues provide the perfect atmosphere for a summer party. We’ve got the recipe down to a fine T – gourmet street food, custom cocktails, and great hospitality. At Swingers you’ll find eats from some of London’s most exciting street food vendors, including pizza, tacos, and mouth-watering burgers.

Our venues are equipped for parties come rain or shine – pretty important for British summer time! Swinger’s rooftop in the West End is great for summer parties. Our stylish decor and hanging botanical details are sure to set the scene. We’ve also got you covered in the event of a rainy day, with both London venues offering multiple indoor cocktail-drenched bars with three amazing nine-hole courses to choose from, including our newest course, The Meteorite.  

We can cater for a range of party sizes too. Our packages for groups up to 20 people allow for drinks, food, and rounds of crazy golf to be paid. Remove the hassle of having to pay on the day and simply enjoy the event! We’ve got a range of sets available for different budgets and needs.

For larger groups of more than 20 people, consider hiring one of our private event spaces. We have space to fit parties from 12-600, with plenty of opportunity to fully personalise your event experience. Our private rooms feature playful and stylish decor, each one unique as the next.

3. Enjoy a boozy cruise on the River Thames

Make the most of the city’s waterfront with a leisurely boat ride. Take your party out on the Thames with a Summer party cruise. Relax on-board whilst you float past the hustle and bustle of London, and then get ready for party time with the on-board DJ. See the city come to life at night whilst you pass by illuminated landmarks, and take a group selfie in front of Tower Bridge. 

4. Get creative with a craft workshop

Getting crafty is a brilliant way to connect and have fun as a group. Even if you’re a DIY-novice, a craft workshop is the perfect excuse to try something new. Check what’s on at MYO, who host a wide variety of craft workshops. T-shirt printing, lino printing, and macrame are just a taste of what’s available to book. These in-person group workshops offer BYOB, and also allow you to order your own food to the studio. 

5. Luxuriate with a picnic in the park

Nothing quite says ‘summer party’ like a picnic in the park. Why not add a luxurious twist by visiting a venue such as Kensington Palace? Picturesque and full of history, there’s ample outdoor space to make use of too. The Historic Royal Palaces team have a range of luxury hampers and gourmet picnic blankets available that you and your party can enjoy.

6. Have a blast at a city beach party

Who says you have to go to the seaside to have a beach party? London City Beach offers a taste of the coastal life slap bang in the city. Think beach huts, fun fair games, and sun loungers. This venue is particularly ideal for large gatherings, featuring a sandy beach, garden, and covered terrace. The team offers a range of packages to cater to your needs, and can host exclusive parties for guests up to 1,200.

7. Transport yourself back to the 1920s

Take your party back in time with an evening at St Katharine’s Docks. The historic Ivory Vaults is available to hire out for private parties and corporate events. At over 200 years old, this unique venue is full of character and vintage charm. Working with the on-site production team, you can create an unforgettable night that’ll put the Great Gatsby to shame! Entertainment offerings include acrobats, jazz musicians, casino tables, and live DJs.

8. Get moving with a Zorbing party

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, why not get active with a Football Zorbing party. This playful twist on football involves a kickabout inside zorb balls! Guaranteed to cause riotous laughter, this will make for a memorable team experience. The team at Football Zorbing have outdoor venues all across London, which can be pre-booked for a range of groups sizes.

9. Hire a botanical oasis

For something a little more chilled-out, hire out Pantechnicon’s elegant botanical terrace. Located between Hyde Park and Knightsbridge, this Nordic hideaway is just right for a sophisticated summer party. Take in the amazing views from the covered terrace, whilst you all enjoy sumptuous cocktails and delicious summer food.

10. Sing your heart out at Bearpit Karaoke

For something a little different, head to Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens where they play host to Bearpit Karaoke sessions over the summer. Bring your party to the concrete amphitheatre, and join in with the fun! You can head to one of the nearby pubs after to grab a drink and some delicious Pub food. This event is completely free of charge and just the thing for those looking for a great Summer party on a limited budget.