At the heart of London’s culture scene, the South Bank offers a wide array of options for dining, entertainment, and exploration. One of the chief among them is Swan’s private dining options. These private venues combine exceptional cuisine, stunning views of South Bank attractions, and intimacy tailored to the event.

Views of Storied Sites

Located within easy walking distance from the historic London Bridge, Swan is a restaurant with menus offering delicious fare and impeccable service. The private dining rooms available for hire have outstanding views of some of London’s most famous landmarks:

• The River Thames: The longest river entirely in England and the second-longest in the United Kingdom, this river is famously tied with the history of London and all of England.
• St Paul’s Cathedral: For over 300 years, this cathedral has dominated the London Skyline. In fact, from 1710 to 1963, it was the tallest building in London. It has been the site of funeral services for history-changing British figures such as Admiral Lord Nelson, the Duke of Wellington, Margaret Thatcher, and Winston Churchill.
• The Globe Theatre: Built-in 1599 by William Shakespeare’s playing company, the Globe remains synonymous with the Bard to this day and is arguably the world’s most famous performance venue.

Rooms for Hire

Swan’s spaces for hire can accommodate from 8 to 425 guests depending on the specific room. Each is available for hire on its own, and reserving the entire venue is an option as well.

• The Balcony Room: This penthouse dining room has a balcony that overlooks the River Thames, St Paul’s Cathedral, and the Globe Theatre. Its capacity is up to 70 seated or 120 standing. There are private bathrooms and cloakrooms, there is a private bar, and the room has lift access.
• The Bull Room: With seating for up to 16 guests, this is a private dining table within the restaurant, separated from the main dining area by glass and copper doors. It has views of both the Globe Theatre and the River Thames. 
• The River Room: As the name implies, this private dining area within the restaurant has excellent views of the River Thames. Glass and copper doors separate it from the main restaurant, and a light curtain is available if there is a wish for additional privacy. It can seat up to 35 guests. 
• The Underglobe: Perhaps the most unique offering available, the Underglobe is the largest venue, and it resides beneath the Globe Theatre. It can accommodate 230 seated guests or 425 standing ones. There is also a private riverside entrance to this facility. This fully accessible venue has a built-in stage with theatre-quality lighting, sound, and projection.

Hire a Private Swan Venue

Whether it’s a corporate dinner, awards ceremony, major family occasion, or any other special event, Swan has an outstanding facility that will be perfect for you. Make a booking or additional enquiries today!

It can be challenging to find activities that your entire family will enjoy when you travel. But when you travel to London, finding family-friendly activities is hardly ever an issue.

That’s because London is known for having endless attractions related to art, culture, history, food, and adventure which all provide you with endless opportunities for how you can fill your time.

To check off a bunch of family-friendly outing activities in London, you’ll want to head over to South Bank. And to help you navigate your time as a family in South Bank and Bankside, we’ve included 10 of our favorite family-friendly activities and restaurants below.

1.)   Visit the London Eye

When you arrive at the London Eye, you’ll be greeted by the world’s highest observation wheel which your whole family can ride to experience breathtaking views of London’s skyline. The London Eye is comprised of 32 pods, representing each of the 32 London Boroughs. This bird’s eye view of the city is something your family will remember forever and will provide you with some of the best photos of London you can get.

2.)   Head to the Riverside Walkway

After you grab a bite to eat and shop with your family at Gabriel’s Wharf, you can head down the riverside walkway for a scenic afternoon stroll. Along your walk you can take in the beauty and culture of South Bank and your family may even cross paths with a street performer. This stroll gets its name from the River Thames, which you will be walking alongside.

3.)   Take a boat ride along the Thames

If you prefer to see the River Thames by boat instead of by foot, you can get aboard a boat at Bankside Pier. Many families opt for the boat ride because it’s one of the best ways to see all of London’s landmarks. During your boat ride, you’ll pass sights like the Monument, Tower Bridge, and the Houses of Parliament. The boat has a covered area and an open upstairs deck so you can choose where you want to sit for some (or all) of the scenic, picturesque ride.

4.)   Visit the Sea Life London aquarium

It’s hard to believe that you can swim with sharks and feed sting rays during your visit to London, but all of that is possible at the Sea Life London Aquarium. If someone in your family isn’t feeling as adventurous, you can still find the typical aquarium attractions you know and love in the aquarium’s 14 different discovery zones that have over 500 sea species to see. You can visit a jellyfish exhibit, come face to face with penguins, meet some sea turtles, and see other amazing fish and marine life that your whole family will love.  

5.)   See a show at the National Theatre

If your family enjoys the arts, you won’t want to miss the chance to stop by the National Theatre. This internationally recognized arts center is the home base for some of London’s best new writing, classics, comedies, and musicals. You’ll just need to check out what show is currently in their lineup in advance of your trip!

6.)   Explore the Florence Nightingale Museum

The Florence Nightingale Museum is full of family-friendly exhibits. That means that while the museum is meant to celebrate the life of Florence Nightingale (who some of your younger family members may not be as familiar with), there are interactive displays, unique collections, and art exhibits catered for children. You’ll find the museum open Wednesday to Sunday so if your visit to South Bank falls on those days, and if your family is interested in history and the opportunity to relive Florence’s childhood, you’ll want to check this out.

7.)   Catch a film at the BFI Imax

While you may not have thought of heading to a movie theatre during your visit, BFI Imax is worth your time. This theatre is a favourite venue among locals. It’s practically as large as five double-decker busses and comes equipped with hundreds of seats and is the UK’s largest 3D cinema screen. Sure, you have movie theatres back home, but we guarantee you don’t have a theatre like this.

8.)   Take off at Shrek’s Adventure

Also located in London is Shrek’s Adventure. If your children are fans of the film, you’ll want to be sure to stop by this attraction. Not only is there an appearance by Shrek himself, but Donkey, Fiona, Puss in boots, the Muffin Man, and your other favourite Shrek characters are all part of this 4D family-friendly adventure that brings you to the Land of FarFarAway.  

9.)   House of Vans Skate Skool

Visiting South Bank means that you are visiting the home of British skating, so immerse yourself in this experience. You can find this hidden London gem inside Leake Street’s arches and tunnels. If you or your family is interested in learning how to skate, the skool offers free one-hour lessons every Saturday morning but you can visit the spot any time. If you don’t want to skate but still want to see the tunnels, you can stop by to see the amazing transformation of the tunnels into an exhibition, cinema, music venue, and skate park all in one place.

10.)  Have dinner at the Swan

If you want to bring your family to a meal with a view that they’ll remember forever, take your family out to the Swan. You can find the Swan located at Shakespeare’s Globe, right next to the River Thames. Whether you want lunch, dinner, or “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” inspired afternoon tea, there is something on the menu for everyone. If we had to suggest one restaurant to get a reservation at during your visit, it would undoubtedly be this one.

What is Today’s Afternoon Tea?

Afternoon Tea is much more than a quick sip. It’s a meal in the afternoon where people enjoy sandwiches, usually cut in small sections or “fingers,” scones, pastries, and even little cakes. Scones are a recent addition to Afternoon Tea, but they were added to the menu since many people love them.

Once referred to as tea receptions, certain Afternoon Tea events could have as many as two hundred guests with an open invitation for people to visit the home between 4 pm and 7 pm, coming and going as they pleased.

In Britain today, Afternoon Tea is typically enjoyed as an occasional indulgence or to celebrate a special event, including bridal or baby showers, birthdays, or social events with a group of close friends.

Where Afternoon Tea Started?

Afternoon tea is known throughout the world as one of the quintessential English customs. Surprisingly, it’s a relatively new tradition. While people have been drinking tea since the third millennium BC in China, its popularity in England didn’t occur until the 1660s, thanks to King Charles II and his wife, the Portuguese Infanta Catherine de Braganza. The concept of Afternoon Tea appeared during the mid-19th century.

Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford, introduced the concept of Afternoon Tea in 1840. The Duchess got hungry around four o’clock in the afternoon, and the evening’s meal wasn’t until 8 pm. That meant there was a long time between lunch and dinner. Because no one wants to wait that long to eat, the Duchess asked for a tray of tea, bread, butter, and cake during the late afternoon. It became a habit of hers, and she began inviting friends to join her in her room to enjoy this afternoon snack. As finger sandwiches became a popular staple, the Earl of Sandwich’s effect would be felt.

This pause for tea and food became a fashionable social event. During the 1880’s upper-class and society women would wear long gowns, gloves, and hats to Afternoon Tea, which would typically be served in the drawing room between 4 and 5 pm.

The Tea Dance

By the late 19th century, tea was much more affordable, allowing the growing middle class to enjoy the luxurious Afternoon Tea ritual. It spread across Britain and even to America.

People started enjoying music at the event in the 1920s. A complete performance by an orchestra in the garden was common for the super-rich. Still, fashionable youngsters of lesser means would go to hotel tea dances.

Nowadays, afternoon tea isn’t a regular part of the day for most people, but it remains a royal tradition. Queen Elizabeth II is said to take Afternoon Tea every day, where she enjoys dainty, crustless sandwiches, sweet treats, and scones.

High Tea vs. Low Tea

You may come across a menu or venue offering High Tea in some situations. Nowadays, this can mean an upper-class event around 4 pm, which a trip around Hyde Park might even follow.

However, England’s original High Tea was a term used for the middle and lower classes’ supper. It typically took place around 5 or 6 pm. In many cases, it was the main meal of the day among the working class.

Many believe that people started using the term during the Industrial Revolution when workers returned home. High Tea was a more substantial meal than simple Afternoon Tea that was sometimes called Low Tea. In fact, it can still be a big no-no to confuse the two in England.

High Tea also referred to the height of the table, as the dinner table was higher than the coffee or tea table where one might enjoy a light snack. Some people in England still refer to dinner as tea.

Traditional Afternoon Tea Menu

• Several types of fresh finger sandwiches, such as cucumber sandwiches
• Scones with clotted cream and preserves
• Various homemade cakes and pastries
• A selection of teas from dark, full-bodied to light, refreshing flavors

What Types of Sandwiches are Served with Afternoon Tea?

Classically, the sandwiches you serve with Afternoon Tea can include:

• Cucumber
• Smoked salmon with cream cheese
• Egg mayonnaise with cress
• Coronation chicken
• Ham and mustard

What is a Cream Tea?

Cream Tea generally refers to an Afternoon Tea selection of scones, clotted cream, and preserves served with a pot of tea.

What is Champagne Afternoon Tea?

Many hotels offer a glass of Champagne along with their Traditional Afternoon Tea. You might also be able to add a glass of Champagne for an additional charge. This version is typically for celebrations and special get-togethers.

What Types of Tea are Served?

The selection of teas available can range from six to over a hundred, including some rare and obscure ones. The most commonly offered teas can include:

Assam

Assam is India’s strong, full-bodied tea. It has a unique, malty flavor.

Darjeeling

Darjeeling is an aromatic, astringent tea from India. Its flavor has a hint of almonds and wildflowers.

Earl Grey

The most commonly known tea and a loyal favorite of many, Earl Grey is a blend of black teas scented with bergamot oil. It was named after Charles the Second Earl Grey, who was Prime Minister from 1830 to 1834.

Lapsang Souchong

Often shortened to Lapsang, this is a Chinese tea that’s fired over smoking pine needles. It has a unique smoky scent and flavor.

To experience the long-standing tradition of Afternoon Tea for yourself, check out The Swan in London. Sitting right on the river Thames, we offer delicious treats and, of course, tea. For more information, check out  https://swanlondon.co.uk/afternoon-tea/

There is no shortage of things to do by the River Thames. Whether you’re looking to take in some history, enjoy the great outdoors, or simply take a leisurely stroll, there’s something for everyone. Here are just a few of the many ways to enjoy the river:

Thames Clippers.

If you’re looking to change up your commute or spend a day on the water, why not hop aboard a Thames Clipper? The boats offer commuters a unique route each day (not to mention the chance to see some of London’s most famous landmarks) and are also a great way for tourists to explore the city. Even better, all of their boats are eco-friendly and also run overnight, making them perfect for late nights out and early morning getaways.

There are even free guided tours available throughout the summer months so that you can learn more about what makes this stretch of water so special. If you’d prefer something more relaxed, simply sit back and enjoy sweeping views from unparalleled vantage points as you float along one of Britain’s most storied waterways!

www.thamesclippers.com

Tower Bridge.

Tower Bridge is one of the most iconic sights in London. The bridge, connecting the City and Southwark over the Thames, is a magnificent feat of Victorian engineering. When it opened in 1894 it surpassed all other bridges across the world for its length (800ft) and height (200ft).

How to get there: The nearest tube station is London Bridge or Tower Hill, which are both on the Circle line.

When to visit: Open daily from 0900-1800 (last admission 1730), and 1200-1800 on Sundays.

What to see: Viewing galleries are 42 metres above water level with windows offering spectacular views of London’s bustling river traffic and landmarks such as St Paul’s Cathedral and The Shard. An exhibition at the south end of the bridge tells you everything you need to know about how Tower Bridge works, including how its ingenious bascules lift up to allow large ships through. There’s also an exhibition telling you all about its history – including how it held a high level walkway until 1910 when people were killed by falling masonry! For a dramatic view, head up the ‘glass floors’, where you can see right down onto traffic passing below – but be warned they’re not for those who suffer from vertigo!

Borough Market.

If you’ve never experienced the sheer number of fruits and vegetables available at Borough Market, London’s most famous market, then you absolutely have to check it out one day. People from around the world travel here every day to get food for today and for tomorrow. The variety available is endless and bringing a cooler bag on a chilly day will be worth the trip alone.

Borough Market is open Monday – Sunday and doesn’t close until 5pm. Its location is perfect if you’re looking for fresh ingredients for cooking or baking your favourite dishes. It’s also good if buying bread or fish along with other items that don’t need refrigeration.

You might also want to bring a picnic along as part of your shopping experience at Borough Market because there are several places where you can sit down, relax and enjoy some delicious food while watching people go by in this busy market with their coolers full of produce and meat of all kinds.

The London Eye

The London Eye is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United Kingdom. Every year, millions of people flock to the capital to catch a ride on the enormous Ferris wheel. TheEye has become an icon of the city, and its bright red capsules are a familiar sight along the Thames.

Standing at a height of 443 feet, the London Eye offers stunning views of some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and St. Paul’s Cathedral. For many visitors, a trip on the Eye is the highlight of their holiday. And with good reason – there’s no better way to see London!

Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the most iconic buildings in England. For centuries, it has been a symbol of the country’s power and authority. The Tower was built by William the Conqueror in 1066, and it has served as a royal palace, a prison, and a place of execution.

Today, the Tower is a popular tourist attraction, and it is home to the Crown Jewels and the Yeoman Warders. The Tower is located on the Thames River in London, and it stands over 200 feet tall.

It is an important part of British history, and it is one of the most well-known landmarks in the world.

St Pauls Cathedral.

Built during the reign of King Charles II, and designed by Sir Christopher Wren after the Great Fire of London destroyed its predecessor in 1666. The cathedral is now one of the most recognisable sights of London. Visitors can climb the dome for a panoramic view over London and purchase unique gifts from St Paul’s Cathedral shops and online store.

The present church, dating from the late 17th century, was designed in the English Baroque style by Sir Christopher Wren. Its construction, completed within Wren’s lifetime (1632–1723), was part of a major rebuilding programme in the City after the Great Fire of London.

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

If you’re a fan of Shakespeare’s plays and you’re visiting London, then the Globe Theatre is a popular tourist attraction. This reconstruction of an original 16th century theatre was masterminded by Sam Wanamaker, who first conceived of the idea in 1949. The modern theatre is based on research and interpretation, standing as close to the original design as possible. It features a thatched roof, an open-air stage and a pit for standing audience members called “groundlings”. These characteristics are very similar to those of the original Globe Theatre.

The new Globe Theatre was opened in 1997 after years of planning and fundraising efforts by many people. In addition to being a popular tourist attraction, it is also used for performances today.

National Theatre.

The National Theatre is a great place for all things theatrical. Did you know that it was created in 1963? It’s also one of the United Kingdom’s largest publicly funded performing arts venue. This means that the building itself is an important piece of history, and many famous architects have worked on its design. You’ll be able to see their work inside and outside the building depending on what kind of tour you take.

The theatre hosts three auditoria that host a wide variety of productions including plays, music, dance and circus acts. The National Theatre also has a large number of resident companies that produce work here as well as touring productions from other UK theatres and even Broadway!

Tate Modern

The Tate Modern is a world-renowned art gallery located in London, England. Founded in 1897, the Tate houses a collection of British and international art from the 16th century to the present day. The Tate Modern is particularly well-known for its extensive holdings of modern and contemporary art, which includes works by such influential artists as Pablo Picasso, Marcel Duchamp, and Jackson Pollock.

In addition to its permanent collection, the Tate Modern also hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions showcase both new and established artists from all over the world, and provide visitors with an opportunity to see some of the newest trends in the art world. Whether you’re an art lover or simply looking for a unique way to spend

Covent Garden.

Any visitor to London will likely find themselves in Covent Garden at some point during their stay. This lively district is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and pubs, as well as the famous Covent Garden Market. It’s also within walking distance of several major attractions, including Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, and Piccadilly Circus.The history of Covent Garden dates back to the 17th century when it was developed by the Duke of Bedford. Since then, it has undergone several transformations, but it has always been a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re looking to do some shopping, grab a bite to eat, or simply soak up the atmosphere, Covent Garden is sure to have something for you to enjoy.

Enjoy London

Londoners and visitors alike can enjoy the many things to do by the river Thames. Whether you want to relax by the water or explore its history, there is something for everyone. So get out and enjoy all that London has to offer! What’s your favourite thing to do near the river Thames?

When it comes to history, we can say without a doubt that Shakespeare has been a huge part in forming not only past history but forming the world of art and theatre today. The Globe Theatre, located in London and having a total of three buildings, has been strongly linked with Shakespeare for centuries. The Globe stands only yards away from the original and is both a source of entertainment and a source of education for many. If you want to learn everything about Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and what you can expect to find if you ever visit it, read on. 

Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre works to reconstruct the open-air playhouse where the famous playwright created his most famous work and in a sense is where some of the greatest work in history was written. When people first hear about this location and when they visit it, the common question is why it’s called The Globe. After all, it makes sense why they call the building Shakespeare’s Theatre but understanding why the last part of the name is included isn’t always as obvious. 

 

William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare was born in 1564 in Stratford upon Avon, UK. Shakespeare was a writer in British theatre during the English Renaissance. Although Shakespeare is most commonly recognised and celebrated for his plays, they’re not the only thing that Shakespeare worked on in his time. He also wrote poems that are immensely popular around the world to this day. Shakespeare’s career first truly got started in London and during this time his first printed works were published. Together Shakespeare’s works include 2 narrative poems, a vast variety of other poems, 38 plays and 154 sonnets. 

When it comes to William Shakespeare, we have the utmost respect and truly love his work. We’re writing this blog post to share with people the love that we have for Shakespeare and to share the great works that he created in his time. 

In this article, we’ll talk about why Shakespeare’s Theatre is called The Globe and the history behind it. 

 

Why was the theatre originally called the Globe?

The Globe Theatre was originally built by the Lord’s Chamberlain’s Men (later known as the King’s Men), a company that William Shakespeare part-owned and wrote for. The Globe Theatre that you may be familiar with today is the third Globe while the first was created in 1599. In May 1599 the first theatre was ready to be opened and it was named the Globe. The theatre was originally named the Globe after the figure of Hercules. Hercules is seen carrying the globe and hence why it was chosen as the name for the theatre. 

In 1997 a modern reconstruction of the theatre opened close to the site of the original theatre. The theatre that is now Gielgud Theatre was originally called ‘Globe Theatre’ from 1909 before it was renamed in honour of John Gielgud in 1994. 

 

How many plays did the Chamberlain’s Men perform?

After the theatre was created and Shakespeare’s plays took off, the Lord Chamberlain’s Men had much success and over time became known as The King’s Men. A number of Shakespeare’s plays were performed at the theatre early on and they included As You Like It, Hamlet, Henry V, Measure for Measure, As You Like It, Hamlet, Othello, King Lear, Macbeth, Julius Caesar, and Antony and Cleopatra. 

The Lord Chamberlain’s Men originally performed at The Theatre in 1594, which was located in Shoreditch. Eventually, the actors worked to build a new theatre after it was taken down after the theatre’s landlord had planned to cancel the lease. The new theatre was preparing to open in 1599 and once opened it was successful. The theatre continued to be successful and perform plays until disaster struck. 

The Globe caught fire in 1613 and burned to the ground. It was rebuilt in February 1614, although at this time Shakespeare had less influence on the theatre. In 1642 parliament ordered the closure of theatres in London and shortly after the Globe was destroyed. However, in 1970 Samual Wanamaker, an American actor and director, started on a journey to reconstruct the original Globe Theatre. 

For the next few decades, they worked to build it until it became the Globe that we’re familiar with today. The new Globe Theatre opened in 1997, right next to where the original stood before. Today The Globe is still standing as a monument to Shakespeare and is a historic piece that’s valued and a part of history. 

 

What was Shakespeare’s occupation?

William Shakespeare is most well known for being an English playwright, but he also had other occupations in his time. Shakespeare was a poet, actor and playwright. 

It’s no surprise that Shakespeare’s work impacted the world, not only today but especially back when his plays were first performed. Shakespeare made a name for the theatre and was a shareholder with the theatre to make money. The Lord Chamberlain’s Men started performing and quickly become a part of the theatre. Shakespeare was a huge part in introducing new things in his time and bringing theatre alive in a new way. 

Thinking about Shakespeare’s plays leads us to wonder what his last work would have been before he died. Although we can’t be entirely certain, it’s presumed that the famous playwright’s last work would have been The Two Noble Kinsmen. This play was written in 1613 by Shakespeare and John Fletcher. 

When we think about everything that Shakespeare accomplished in his time and his plays, there’s a lot to discover. After all, it’s impossible to try to truly convey what he did throughout his time and talking about his time at the Globe Theatre is only a small bit of his career. Although Shakespeare is most well known for his plays, it’s important to remember that he impacted the world in many different ways as well. 

 

Conclusion

Shakespeare plays a huge part in our history and when it comes to the Globe Theatre, it’s important to recognise its importance in theatre history. To make sure that you know the important parts of theatre history, you want to educate yourself on all things about the Globe Theatre. We hope that the information above has helped to give you some information on why was Shakespeare’s Theatre called The Globe and the history of the theatre itself. 

If you want to expand your knowledge of the Globe Theatre and William Shakespeare, the good news is that the internet is full of information about both of these topics. Although a quick google search will get you a vast amount of results that you can breeze through, we’ll link to a few of our favourite articles on the topic as well. To learn more about the Globe Theatre visit this article and to learn about William Shakespeare visit this article.  

If you want to learn more details or have any questions about this article and The Globe, please feel free to reach out. We’re always interested in what our readers have to say.

Exclusive private venue to hire in London 

Available to hire by individual space or as exclusive whole venue hire in Central London, Swan at the Globe’s premium meeting and dining rooms have some of the best views in the city. 

Special evening events have their own dedicated area that is licensed until 1am (with optional extension to 3am), with theatre quality lighting and sound, and prices starting at just £130pp inclusive of full production and theming.

Exceptional event venue easily accessible from London Bridge

Swan at the Globe is a unique venue in the heart of London’s historic Bankside, within easy walking distance of London Bridge, Blackfriars and Cannon Street stations. Our versatile, modern spaces can accommodate private and corporate events for 16 – 450 people, and our dedicated team will ensure your experience is effortless throughout.

Private hire restaurant in London with enviable views over the Thames and St Paul’s

Our private dining rooms, premium meeting rooms and lovely top floor event spaces have some of the best views in London, looking out over St Paul’s Cathedral, the Globe Theatre and the Thames. 

Unusual venue to hire for experiential and immersive events

The Underglobe, a purpose-built private room beneath Shakespeare’s Globe, offers a blank canvas that our in-house production partners will transform into a magical party space. With its built-in stage, spectacular choice of props, and theatrical sound and lighting, the Underglobe makes for a truly unusual venue hire in London.

The perfect space for drinks receptions, parties, private dining, and meetings

Whether you are hosting a private celebration, corporate gala dinner, board meeting or full-blown awards ceremony, Swan at the Globe has the space to suit. From the intimate Bull Room to the magnificent Underglobe, you will find a stunning room that exceeds your expectations.

Theatre, drama and originality guaranteed

It’s no surprise that with our location next to the world’s most iconic theatre, Swan at the Globe delivers exceptionally creative events and provides one of the most unique party venues for hire in London. Wild, our in-house production partner, is a talented team of designers, technical experts and florists. Their knowledge and passion will add extra sparkle and innovation to your event.

Delicious food, immaculate service and expert advice

Swan at the Globe’s brilliant chefs, sommeliers and mixologists deliver an authentic modern English dining experience. Dedicated event planners and engaging, expertly trained front of house staff will make sure your event runs beautifully, from the first enquiry through to post-event feedback.

Supporting Shakespeare’s Globe

By choosing Swan at the Globe for your event, you are supporting the educational and artistic work of the Shakespeare’s Globe Trust. The Trust promotes, maintains, improves and advances education by encouraging and stimulating public appreciation and understanding of the dramatic art in all its forms.

Why choose Swan at the Globe?

• Handy, central location with excellent transport links to the whole of London and beyond
• Versatile spaces for 16 – 450 guests
• Stunning views of St Paul’s Cathedral and the Globe theatre
• Unique evening party venue beneath the Globe theatre
• Whole venue hire possible
• Licensed to 1am with the option to extend to 3am
• First class English dining experience
• Warm, knowledgeable, engaging service
• In-house event production partner
• Venue hire supports Shakespeare’s Globe 
• Licensed for weddings
• Exceptional value for money
• Private dining rooms
• Dedicated professional event team 

Versatile event spaces to hire in London’s energetic Bankside

Swan at the Globe’s lovely private event spaces in London lend themselves to all manner of occasions. Relaxed, informal dinners, client meetings, Christmas parties or black tie receptions, we have the perfect setting for your event.

With a central location on the south bank of the Thames, close to excellent transport links, Swan at the Globe is highly accessible, and we are privileged to have some of the most desirable views in South London. 

From cocktail receptions and red carpet award nights to private celebrations, the Swan at the Globe has the setting, style and savoir-faire to deliver your event, perfectly.

A unique event space in London for evening parties

Hidden beneath the Globe theatre is the sensational Underglobe, a venue hire with all the drama you could wish for. We will transform this blank canvas into a glittering, glamorous, secret space to capture the theatre of your event. 

Perfect for gala dinners, awards ceremonies, cocktail receptions and lavish parties, this atmospheric space can readily accommodate events of up to 350 guests seated, or 450 standing. Using chic partitions, we can also divide the room into smaller sections, making it ideal for more intimate gatherings.

Discover this cool event space under London’s iconic Globe theatre

Leaving bustling Bankside behind, your guests will descend through a private riverside entrance into the magical, theatrical world of the Underglobe. At the mezzanine, the ideal spot for welcome drinks, they will pause to take in the beautifully decorated room below. From here, a sweeping staircase leads to the heart of the space with its full-sized, model oak tree and soaring ceiling.

A high tech venue that delivers theatre quality sound and lighting

Our in-house production partners will work with you to design a theme to suit your event. With access to an enviable theatrical prop box and outstanding, fully integrated sound, lighting and projection, your Underglobe will be dressed to impress.

Party the night away with our late night licence

As standard, your event will be licensed to 1am, and we can apply to extend this if you want to party on into the small hours.

Sumptuous food and welcoming service

Swan’s skilled in-house catering team will keep your guests beautifully fed and watered throughout your evening. Menus featuring local Borough Market suppliers and superb English seasonal produce will be tailored to your event. Service will be warm, polished and genuine.

Room capacities

• 350 Seated dinner
• 350 Dinner dance
• 350 Wedding
• 450 Standing reception

Why choose the Underglobe?

• Private riverside entrance
• Mezzanine area for welcome drinks
• Built-in stage
• Theatre quality sound, lighting and projection
• Live music and DJs permitted
• Double height ceiling
• Pre-rigged lighting includes pin spots over tables, colour wash and uplighters
• Further lighting upgrades available
• Wheelchair access and lift
• Licensed for weddings
• Licensed to 1am with the option to extend to 3am
• Available for evening events only
• Black and white tiled dance floor
• First class dining experience
• Dietary requirements catered for
• In-house event production partner
• Exceptional value for money
• Dedicated professional event team
• Venue hire supports Shakespeare’s Globe 

Perfect for

• Award ceremonies
• Gala dinners
• Wedding receptions
• Birthday celebrations
• Bar and Bat Mitzvahs
• Christmas parties