5 outdoor party venues
With the gradual easing of lockdown, we expect to see parties and celebrations start to slowly fill our diaries again in the coming months. It’s clear that the events industry will take some time to get back to full strength, and even then it’s likely to look different to how it was before.
From social distancing to group sizes, hygiene standards to virtual communication, there’ll be some changes to the ways in which we meet up and interact with one another. One of the trends we’re expecting here at Lime is for events such as weddings, parties and other celebrations to be taken outdoors.
Not only is this a safer option in light of a certain virus, but outdoor venues offer an entirely different experience in terms of atmosphere, theming and arranging your space. They allow more scope for being imaginative and creative with your planning, not to mention providing some amazing backdrops for your party photos.
To help you plan your event safely and successfully, we’ve made a list of our favourite party venues with outdoor space to give you some inspiration.
1. Aintree Racecourse
A party at Aintree Racecourse will be in safe hands, as it’ll be engineered by the same team who organise one of the biggest and most successful sporting events in the UK: The Grand National. The venue offers 270 acres of parkland for you and your guests to celebrate in, with views of the iconic racing track to pose against and even a 9-hole golf course if you feel like some friendly competition.
Offering the latest AV equipment, a convenient location and award-winning catering options, Aintree Racecourse has all the necessary ingredients of a great outdoor party venue.
2. Hampton Court Palace
The spectacular gardens of Hampton Court Palace have been shaped by the styles of Henry VIII, Charles I and Oliver Cromwell over its 600-year history, and its restored baroque design now provides a unique party setting. Guests can wander amongst the trees in the Orangery, dine in the glass-walled Garden Room or enjoy archery or football in the Tiltyard.
Hampton Court Palace enjoys strong links with accredited suppliers, including caterers, florists, entertainment, photography and marquee hire, which can help make your outdoor party even more memorable.
3. Roux at Parliament Square
Located within the Grade II-listed Royal Institution of Charter Surveyors in the heart of Westminster, Roux at Parliament Square prides itself on contemporary elegance. Its fifth-floor President’s Suite offers jaw-dropping views of the London skyline, including Big Ben and the London Eye.
The outdoor terrace can be dressed with furniture to suit your requirements, and AV equipment can be provided to create that perfect party atmosphere. What sets Roux at Parliament Square apart though is undoubtedly the food, with bespoke menus using the finest seasonal produce and created by Michelin-starred chef, Michel Roux Jr. The cocktail menu, made up of both non- and alcoholic options, is no less delicious and inventive.
4. Hever Castle
The childhood home of Anne Boleyn boasts multiple outdoor spaces that are ideal for drinks receptions, barbeque parties and dinner dances. Guests won’t be able to resist exploring the award-winning rose gardens, admiring the Trevi-inspired fountain in the Italian Gardens and enjoying the delicious scents of the olive, kiwi, fig and pomegranate bushes.
The Tudor Suite Lawn is perfect for mingling while sipping cocktails, or partygoers can dine under the camellia-clad Pergola before enjoying a dance at the beautiful lakeside Guthrie Pavilion. For an extra-memorable touch, treat your guests to a special twist on your event, such as a murder mystery evening, actors in Tudor costumes or a firework display.
5. Knebworth House and Barns
Knebworth’s grand 500-year-old house sits within 250 acres of stunning parkland, making it the ideal setting for summer parties, drinks receptions and larger gatherings.
Guests can enjoy wandering the 28 acres of formal gardens, which include a maze, tropical borders and a wilderness area. Indoors, the breathtaking Jacobean banquet hall has played host to Queen Elizabeth I and II, or choose one of the barn venues with direct access to the gardens or patio area. With dedicated event packages and seasonal, sustainable catering from Restaurant Associates, Knebworth has everything you need for the perfect outdoor event.
If you want to see more al fresco party inspiration, head to our full list of venues with outdoor space.
