Whether you’re planning a birthday party, workshop, intimate wedding, or community gathering, finding the perfect small venue to hire can be a challenge. Islington has plenty of hidden gems offering unique spaces that are full of character and charm. Here’s a roundup of the best small venues for hire in ISlington, perfect for creating unforgettable events.

1. St Mary Hornsey Rise: A Historic Hideaway with Character

If you're looking for a venue with personality, St Mary Hornsey Rise is a great choice. Nestled in a charming part of Islington, this venue features historic architecture. It has arched ceilings and beautiful stained glass windows.

These elements create a perfect atmosphere for small gatherings. It is ideal for intimate weddings, milestone celebrations, or workshops.

• Capacity: Up to 300 guests
• Best For: Intimate weddings, art exhibits, birthday parties
• Highlights: Unique character, flexible layouts, historic ambiance, Victorian Gothic tower and spire, all in Kentish ragstone.

2. Taylor-Bassett Room: A Bright and Modern Space for Community Events

Located in the heart of Islington at the north end of Highbury Fields. The Taylor-Bassett Room is in the new community centre built in 2022, next to the beautiful Christ Church building consecrated in 1848. The space is bright and airy, with large windows that let in plenty of natural light. It’s perfect for community meetups, small business events, workshops and special occasions like baby showers. 

• Capacity: Up to 75 guests
• Best For: Workshops, community gatherings, business meetings and baby showers
• Highlights: Large windows with a great view, modern decor, excellent central location

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3. Chocolate Studios: A Creative Space for Artsy Events

For those looking to add a creative twist to their event, the Chocolate Studios offers an inspiring setting bordering Islington and Hackney. With 50 sq m of space, this beautiful warehouse studio offers plenty of room to work, play, and create. With a reclaimed teak floor, exposed brick, and warehouse windows, this space is great for photo shoots, video productions, and more. 

• Capacity: Up to 25 guests
• Best For: Art classes, photography workshops, creative team-building sessions
• Highlights: Creative-friendly setup, adaptable lighting, located near public transport links

4. Hollow Rocks: A Space Perfect for Sporty Parties

For kids parties and sporty gatherings, look no further than Hollow Rocks. Hollow Rocks is the only club of its kind in central London where you can participate in lots of different sports, access fitness classes and social events.

The team at Hollow Rocks love nothing more than hosting private events and gatherings. Whether you're a group of mates celebrating a special occasion, a family looking for the perfect sporty kid’s party, or a bunch of work colleagues looking for something a bit different to do together, Hollow Rocks have a range of different fitness formats you can choose from.

Check out their amazing Kid’s Party package: You can create a bespoke sports party based on your sporting preferences. Two coaches will run a sports session of 90 minutes allowing parents to relax in the café and enjoy their delicious menu of coffee, smoothies, breakfast and lunch items. Once finished their Front of House team will make pizza and a platter of fresh fruit for the children to enjoy afterwards. Parties run for 2.5 hours in total.

• Capacity: Up to 16 guests
• Best For: Kid’s Sporty Parties, outdoor fitness classes, team building activities
• Highlights: Modern and stylish gym/ cafe set up, huge variety of sporting activities, ideal for outdoor and indoor sports

5. Anomalous Space: A Home away from Home for Meetups and Celebrations

This charming Georgian Town house in the heart of Islington is a friendly neighbourhood work space, studio and event venue. that connects people, facilitates creativity and sparks inspiration. With its eclectic spaces and friendly atmosphere, Anomalous Space is a wonderful spot for events, photo shoots, pop up events and product launches. There are wide ranging tech facilities making it ideal for virtual and hybrid events. Their experienced studio team offers a number of packages with different levels of in-house production available to cater to your needs.

• Capacity: Up to 70 guests
• Best For: Celebrations, product launches, training sessions
• Highlights: Casual, relaxed vibe; varied spaces available, tech expertise

6. Hanover Primary School: A Charming School Space for Family Gatherings

If you’re looking for a charming, centrally located setting, consider Hanover Primary School, set by the side of the Regents Canal with astonishing views across London from their rooftop playground. The Community Room is a great space for smaller kids' parties, with direct access to a small kitchen included. There is a lovely view of the canal directly out the window.

• Capacity: Up to 20 guests
• Best For: Children’s parties, tutoring, community meals, business meetings
• Highlights: Back to School charm, incredible views over Regents Canal, central location

Tips for Booking Small Event Venues in Islington

• Book Early: Small venues often fill up quickly, especially around the holiday season or weekends. Start your search at least two to three months in advance to secure your preferred date.
• Consider Accessibility: Look for venues that are accessible to all guests, including those with disabilities. Many small venues in Islington offer easy access or are close to public transport.
• Ask About Additional Services: Some venues offer extras like AV equipment, party packages, or catering facilities, which can save time and simplify the planning process. Be sure to ask about additional services when you inquire.
• Think About the Vibe: Each venue has its own unique atmosphere. Think about whether you want a cosy, homely feel or a modern, minimalist setting, and choose a venue that matches the mood you’re aiming for.
• Check the Rules and Policies: Some small venues have restrictions on things like sound levels, decor, or catering. Make sure you’re clear on all policies before booking to avoid any surprises.

Why Choose a Small Venue for Your Next Event?

Small venues offer a level of intimacy and charm that larger spaces can lack. Hosting an event in a cosy, unique space gives it a personal touch and allows for better guest interaction. Plus, smaller venues tend to be budget-friendly and easier to manage. Whether you’re hosting a family celebration or a community meetup, choosing a hidden gem in Islington will make your event feel special.

So next time you’re planning an event and looking in Islington for venue hire options, consider exploring our hidden gems here.