The British capital has long been at the epicenter of global business, acting as a bridge between East and West. It maintains that status to this day, offering a convenient middle ground for businesspeople from around the world. Its appeal stems in part from its amazing connectivity, with six airports serving a massive array of destinations, as well as direct trains to France, Belgium and the Netherlands on Eurostar. The vibrant, cosmopolitan city moves with the times while maintaining unique traditions built up over more than 2,000 years of history and boasts 85 Michelin star restaurants, 200 museums and more than 800 art galleries.

These factors combine to make London a great destination for MICE travel, and the city has an extensive offering of more than 1,000 venues, from huge exhibition centers such as Excel to intimate private meeting rooms. The British capital has something for everyone and plenty of attractions to keep your guests entertained if they tack on a few days to explore the city after their work is done.

The London Convention Bureau, an official agency supported by London Mayor Sadiq Khan, promotes the meetings and conventions sector and can help coordinate MICE travel, whatever your needs.

© Excel London

Classic choices for large events include Excel London, which announced an expansion plan that will bring new facilities ranging from exhibition halls to conference rooms. Check out Tate Modern art gallery for a prime location on the Thames in the middle of town, or opt for Alexandra Palace, a versatile historic venue which offers great views over the city from a hill in north London.

Olympia, a historical convention center, has just undergone a £1 billion ($1.36 billion) redevelopment project. Updated facilities include a live music venue with capacity for more than 4,000 people and a theater with more than 1,500 seats, as well as more than 20 dining options. As part of this redevelopment, Hyatt Regency opened a new 196-room hotel directly connecting to Olympia and boasting four meeting rooms of its own.

Another new addition to the MICE segment, Park Hyatt London River Thames opened in Nine Elms — the first Park Hyatt property in the United Kingdom — offering a range of meeting spaces and a secure executive wing to facilitate events involving the nearby U.S. Embassy.

In the center of the city, the more intimate Newman Hotel offers 81 rooms and suites in Fitzrovia, close to the West End entertainment district, while Il Bottaccio London is another new spot. Situated inside a listed building, it accommodates up to 1,500 attendees and offers a full suite of facilities including green rooms and a large stage area.

© Olympia

Those looking to tap into London’s history might also consider iconic hotels such as The Dorchester and Hilton London Metropole, which overlooks Hyde Park; both completed extensive redevelopment programs to bring their MICE offerings up to speed.

Whether you are looking for a high-tech, modern vibe or something more traditional, you will surely find what you need among the myriad options in London’s MICE offerings. This range, combined with great connectivity, makes the British capital a convenient choice for your next event.

UNIQUE VENUES
London has no shortage of unique venues to make your event stand out. Among the most historic and awe-inspiring is the Tower of London. Standing since the 11th century, it once housed V.I.P. prisoners and was the site of famous executions. Arrange a dinner for 90 guests in the King’s Great Hall or book an evening Tower Takeover for up to 1,200 guests.

Dazzle your guests with an event at Horizon 22, offering amazing views over the city from the 58th floor of the 22 Bishopsgate building. With 25-foot-high ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows, cutting-edge technology, gourmet cuisine and personalized service, the adaptable event space accommodates 280 guests seated or 500 standing.

For those looking for a sportier vibe, check out the Great Hall at Chelsea Football Club or The Grand Hall at Wembley Stadium, or host an event for up to 90 people at the F1 Arcade London, home to 60 racing simulators which recreate the experience of driving a Formula One car.