Planning an Event in South London? What to Look for in a Venue

South London has some of the most varied event spaces in the city, from riverside venues and garden spaces to private members clubs and historic halls. We've catered at a lot of them. Here's what we've learned.

What to look for before you book

Kitchen facilities

Some venues have full prep kitchens. Others have nothing beyond a serving area or a couple of power sockets. This matters more than people realise. Ask specifically what the kitchen provision is. We can work with both, but knowing upfront means we can plan properly and there are no surprises on the day.

Outside space or covered area

If you're planning a live cooking station, kothu roti, hoppers, dosa, outside space or a covered area gives our chefs room to work and keeps the theatre visible to guests. A live station squeezed into a corner loses half its impact.

Access and load-in

Catering comes with equipment, and equipment needs to get in and out. A venue that's difficult to access, narrow corridors, no parking, stairs only, adds time and cost. It's worth asking about load-in before you fall in love with a space.

Capacity versus comfort

Venues quote maximum capacity. For a catered event with tables, a buffet station and space to move, the comfortable number is usually 70-80% of the maximum. A venue that fits 150 for a standing reception might comfortably seat 100 for a catered dinner.

South London areas worth knowing

• ◆Wimbledon and Merton, with a strong mix of private members clubs, restored halls and garden venues. Good transport links from central London. Works well for weddings and corporate events.
• ◆Brixton and Clapham, more urban, well suited to corporate events and parties. Range of converted spaces and dedicated event venues.
• ◆Greenwich and Blackheath, riverside and parkside venues with a more formal feel. Good for larger weddings and celebrations.
• ◆Crystal Palace and Dulwich, smaller, more intimate spaces. Good for private parties and events where you want a more personal atmosphere.

A note from us as caterers

The best events we've catered are ones where the client thought about food from the start of the venue search. Where the buffet will sit, how guests flow around it, where a live station can be positioned. If you're in the early stages of planning and want a caterer's perspective on what works, we're happy to talk it through before you've even confirmed a venue.