London is a global hub for business, culture, and creativity—making it one of the most sought-after cities for hosting exhibitions of all kinds.

Whether you’re planning an art showcase, a product launch, a trade fair, or an educational expo, the city offers an impressive range of exhibition spaces tailored to diverse needs and industries.

From historic buildings that blend grandeur with modern amenities to cutting-edge, purpose-built halls, London provides an unmatched environment for exhibitors and attendees alike.

Its international accessibility, vibrant footfall, and deep cultural relevance make it the perfect stage for creating impactful exhibitions that drive engagement and brand visibility.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before booking an exhibition space in London—from types of venues and pricing considerations to local logistics and expert planning tips.

Types of Exhibition Spaces Available in London

London’s diverse venue landscape ensures there’s an exhibition space for every type of event—whether you’re hosting a high-profile product launch, a creative showcase, or a corporate trade expo.

Here are the most common types of exhibition spaces you can book in the city:

I. Purpose-Built Exhibition Centres

These are large-scale venues designed specifically to host exhibitions, trade shows, and large public or B2B events.

• Offer extensive floor space and flexible layouts
• Equipped with high-capacity AV, lighting, and rigging systems
• Suitable for major expos, industry conventions, and multi-brand product launches
• Examples: ExCeL London, Olympia London

II. Historic & Heritage Venues

These are iconic London landmarks adapted for modern exhibitions, offering character, prestige, and central locations.

• Blend architectural beauty with event-readiness
• Ideal for fashion exhibitions, art showcases, and luxury product launches
• Often located in Central or West London with strong cultural pull
• Examples: Old Billingsgate, Somerset House

III. Academic & Institutional Venues

London’s universities and research institutions offer unique spaces with a built-in academic and professional audience.

• Great for scientific, educational, or medical exhibitions
• Modern facilities with built-in lecture halls and breakout rooms
• Often located near major transport lines, ideal for corporate events
• Examples: University College London, King’s College London

IV. Sports & Entertainment Venues

Many of London’s famous stadiums and arenas have dedicated exhibition spaces perfect for large crowds and brand showcases.

• High footfall and wide demographic appeal
• Impressive infrastructure, security, and parking
• Ideal for public expos, fan-based exhibitions, or tech roadshows
• Examples: Lord’s Cricket Ground, Tottenham Hotspur Stadium

V. Art Galleries & Boutique Spaces

Smaller, curated venues are perfect for niche exhibitions, pop-up experiences, and creative industry events.

• Flexible, intimate environments for brand storytelling
• High appeal for fashion, photography, design, and lifestyle brands
• Many are located in East or Central London neighborhoods

Each of these venue types caters to different goals, audience sizes, and event styles—so understanding your event’s core needs is essential before booking.

Top Exhibition Venues in London

Whether you’re looking for historical charm, academic prestige, or a world-class sports venue, London has something to offer for every type of exhibition.

Here are three standout venues that combine flexibility, functionality, and location to deliver exceptional exhibition experiences.

1.      Old Billingsgate

Located on the north bank of the River Thames, Old Billingsgate is one of London’s most iconic event venues.

Formerly a bustling Victorian fish market, this Grade II listed building has been transformed into a stunning space ideal for exhibitions, product launches, and experiential brand events.

Key Features:

• 7,800 sqm of versatile event space with industrial-chic architecture
• Stunning riverside views and natural daylight
• High ceilings and open floor plans ideal for large-scale installations
• Located minutes from Tower Bridge and London Bridge stations

Perfect for: luxury exhibitions, tech showcases, and immersive brand activations.

Learn more: Old Billingsgate on MiceDestination

2.      Lord’s Cricket Ground

A legendary name in sports, Lord’s Cricket Ground is more than a venue—it’s a British institution.

Beyond the pitch, it offers a variety of exhibition halls and event suites that bring together heritage, space, and world-class hospitality.

Key Features:

• Multiple event spaces including the striking Thomas Lord Suite and Nursery Pavilion
• Iconic setting with views of the cricket field
• Easy access to central London via St John’s Wood underground station
• On-site catering and AV services provided by expert event teams

Perfect for: sports exhibitions, corporate roadshows, and lifestyle expos seeking a unique setting.

Learn more: Lord’s Cricket Ground on MiceDestination

3.      University College London (UCL)

Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, UCL offers a variety of modern, professional-grade spaces suitable for academic exhibitions, conferences, and research-led industry events.

Key Features:

• Accessible lecture theatres, halls, and foyers
• Strong academic credibility and built-in audience for educational expos
• Walking distance from Euston and King’s Cross stations
• AV-equipped spaces with support for hybrid exhibitions

Perfect for: academic fairs, healthcare exhibitions, or innovation showcases.

Learn more: University College London on MiceDestination

Factors to Consider When Booking an Exhibition Space

Choosing the right exhibition venue in London goes beyond size and location.

To ensure your event runs smoothly and delivers impact, here are the key factors every organizer should evaluate before making a booking.

·      Location & Accessibility

A centrally located venue near public transport hubs increases attendance and convenience for both local and international visitors.

Venues near tube stations, major roads, and hotels—like those in Central London or near King’s Cross—are ideal for maximizing footfall and simplifying logistics.

·      Venue Capacity & Layout Flexibility

Understand how much space you need, both in terms of floor area and layout options.

Does the venue allow for shell schemes, modular stands, or open-plan arrangements?

Consider audience flow, breakout spaces, and if needed, areas for networking, catering, or product demos.

·      Technical Facilities & AV Support

Modern exhibitions often rely heavily on audio-visual setups, internet connectivity, lighting rigs, and display systems.

Confirm the availability of high-speed Wi-Fi, in-house AV teams, power access, and any restrictions on third-party equipment or staging.

·      Branding Opportunities & Visual Impact

A venue with strong architectural or thematic presence can enhance your brand narrative.

Whether it’s the industrial charm of Old Billingsgate or the academic prestige of UCL, choose a space that aligns with your exhibition’s tone and branding goals.

·      Licensing, Insurance & Local Regulations

Ensure your event complies with local licensing, insurance, and health & safety regulations.

Some venues may also require public liability coverage or specific documentation for large-scale exhibitions.

Always confirm these requirements during the booking phase.

·      Catering, Staffing & On-site Services

Check if the venue provides in-house catering, security, cleaning, or staff support—or whether you’ll need to arrange vendors yourself.

Having reliable on-site services can save you time, reduce costs, and ensure smoother event execution.

·      Cost Transparency & Contract Flexibility

Request a detailed breakdown of rental fees, deposits, cancellation terms, and hidden charges.

Look for flexible contract terms, especially if your exhibition might scale up or if you’re booking far in advance.

Pro tip: Working with a partner like MiceDestination can simplify this entire process. We help you compare venues, negotiate better terms, and ensure that nothing gets missed during planning.

Cost of Renting Exhibition Spaces in London

London offers a wide range of exhibition venues—each with its own pricing model based on location, size, services, and prestige.

Understanding what factors impact costs will help you create a realistic budget and avoid hidden expenses.

What Influences the Cost?

Several variables affect how much you’ll pay to rent an exhibition space in London:

• Location: Central London venues (e.g., near Westminster, Soho, or King’s Cross) typically command higher prices.
• Size & Capacity: Larger floor areas and multipurpose venues cost more, especially if they include breakout rooms or private lounges.
• Venue Type: Historic venues and luxury sites (like Old Billingsgate) are more premium than academic or blank canvas spaces.
• Inclusions: Some venues include AV equipment, staffing, catering, or branding options in their pricing; others charge extra for each.
• Time of Year & Booking Lead Time: Prices are often higher during peak seasons (spring/summer) and for short-notice bookings.

Sample Price Ranges

Here’s an approximate cost overview for renting an exhibition venue in London:

Note: These rates may or may not include equipment, staffing, or catering.

Additional Costs to Account For

• AV and tech rentals
• Exhibition stand build and design
• Staff (ushers, registration, security)
• Cleaning and waste disposal
• Insurance and public liability cover
• Catering and hospitality for guests

Save More with Bundled Packages

Some venues offer packages for multi-day exhibitions or provide discounts for non-peak dates.

Working with MiceDestination can also help you unlock better rates, manage negotiations, and access exclusive bundled services at top venues across London.

How to Secure the Right Exhibition Venue

Booking an exhibition space in London requires more than just picking a venue and confirming availability.

To ensure your event runs smoothly and meets your objectives, it’s important to follow a structured approach—from research to contract signing.

Step 1: Define Your Event Requirements

Before reaching out to any venue, outline the key details of your exhibition:

• Target audience and expected number of attendees
• Type of exhibition (art, trade show, educational, product launch, etc.)
• Space and layout requirements (booths, stage, breakout areas)
• Preferred dates and times
• AV, branding, and catering needs

Having a clear brief will help you filter out unsuitable options and get faster responses from venue managers.

Step 2: Shortlist & Compare Venues

Research different types of exhibition venues across London and evaluate them based on:

• Accessibility and nearby transport links
• Visual appeal and architectural style
• Technical capabilities (Wi-Fi, lighting, rigging, etc.)
• Cost and what’s included in the rental price
• Reviews or past event references

If you’re short on time, MiceDestination can present you with a personalized shortlist based on your exact needs—saving hours of research and back-and-forth.

Step 3: Conduct Site Visits or Virtual Tours

Whenever possible, visit the shortlisted venues or schedule a virtual walkthrough. Pay attention to:

• Floor plan flexibility and visitor flow
• Signage and branding areas
• Lighting conditions and ceiling height
• Backstage or service access points for vendors and setup teams

A physical or virtual tour will help you visualize the event experience and identify potential challenges ahead of time.

Step 4: Review the Contract Carefully

Once you’ve selected your venue, don’t rush into signing the agreement. Carefully review:

• Rental duration and access hours (for setup and breakdown)
• Cancellation terms and refund policy
• Additional costs (security, cleaning, overtime, etc.)
• Insurance requirements and responsibilities

Having a trusted partner like MiceDestination ensures you’re not caught off-guard by hidden terms, and can even help you negotiate more favorable clauses.

Permits, Accessibility, and Local Regulations

When hosting an exhibition in London, it’s important to be aware of local compliance requirements.

Depending on the venue and nature of your event, you may need:

• Temporary Event Notices (TENs): Required if your event includes alcohol, entertainment, or late hours.
• Public Liability Insurance: Most venues will require proof of coverage before confirming your booking.
• Health & Safety Compliance: Ensure your layout, electrical setups, and equipment follow UK event safety standards.

Accessibility is also key. Make sure your venue provides step-free access, accessible restrooms, and clear signage for attendees with disabilities.

MiceDestination works closely with venue managers and local authorities to help you meet all legal and accessibility standards—hassle-free.

How MiceDestination Can Help with Your Exhibition Planning

Planning an exhibition in London can be overwhelming—from finding the right venue to managing vendors, permits, and logistics.

That’s where MiceDestination comes in.

We offer end-to-end support for organizers looking to host impactful exhibitions without the stress of doing it all alone.

Here’s how we help:

Tailored Venue Recommendations

We handpick venues based on your industry, budget, audience size, and brand goals—whether you’re looking for a riverside icon like Old Billingsgate or a heritage-rich space like UCL.

Vendor Coordination & On-Ground Support

From AV and signage to staffing and catering, we manage all essential services under one roof. Our local network ensures quality execution and competitive rates.

Permits, Contracts & Compliance

We guide you through the paperwork—TENs, insurance, health & safety regulations—so you’re fully covered and legally compliant.

Cost Transparency & Negotiation

With insider knowledge and local partnerships, we help you secure better rates and full visibility on your spending.

Whether it’s your first exhibition or your fiftieth, MiceDestination ensures you deliver a professional, memorable experience—without the planning headaches.

Conclusion: Make Your London Exhibition Stand Out

London offers one of the most dynamic and diverse environments for hosting exhibitions—whether you’re launching a product, showcasing art, or organizing a trade event. With world-class venues, unmatched accessibility, and a thriving audience base, the city provides the perfect canvas for meaningful brand and business engagement.

But success lies in the planning. Choosing the right venue, ensuring compliance, and coordinating multiple moving parts can quickly become overwhelming. That’s why working with an experienced partner like MiceDestination can transform your vision into a seamless, well-executed reality.

Ready to book an exhibition space in London?
Let MiceDestination handle the details—so you can focus on what matters most: creating an unforgettable event.