This is a guest post by Amy Stroud, Venue Expert at UK based startup Hire Space. You can follow her @hirespace.

The first meeting of a new year is an important one, it’s a great opportunity to close the previous year, acknowledge what went well and possibly more crucially what didn’t. It’s then time to pump up the enthusiasm for the months ahead, build up the team and renew momentum in the midst of January blues. So picking a great venue that inspires is a pretty good place to start. We’ve done the work for you and picked five kick-off meeting spaces we think would work perfectly.

1. Anomalous Space

Located 2 minutes walk from Angel station, Anomalous Space (A_SPACE) is the headquarters of the Anomalous Visuals collective. Situated within a Georgian townhouse it blends the comfort of the old with the innovation of the new. A_SPACE is an original Art Deco studio and versatile venue to boot, with a large open plan lounge and several break out areas. It’s got a comfortable, homely vibe so everyone can relax and get stuck into discussing those plans for world domination.

2. Proud Archivist

The Proud Archivist is 5,000 sq ft of space, spanning the restaurant, terrace and mezzanine and can accommodate up to 200 people. It’s a spacious, contemporary and light with lovely views over the canals. It also has anything you might need for a meeting including full AV capabilities, break out rooms and even moveable walls…now that’s flexible.

3. Lord’s Cricket Ground

For somewhere with a bit of the wow-factor try the most famous cricket ground in the world, in leafy St John’s Wood. Steeped in history and charm, the venue has a whole host of different spaces, from the Museum and Film Theatre filled with a fascinating collection of memorabilia, to the stunning Long Room or a Tavern Meeting Room overlooking the pitch. Lord’s is a unique space, sure to inspire some enthusiasm in the team – particularly with the sports fans!

4. Doll’s House Peckham

One to get the creative juices flowing is this South London venue. You’ll find it within a former public house, originally built in 1870 and now transformed with the signature style of the Dead Doll’s Club. Hand drawn illustrations adorn the walls, mimicking the features of a grand townhouse, with gold and turquoise accents throughout the venue. It has a quirky, lively feel and a great choice if you’re looking for somewhere a bit out of the ordinary.

5. Royal Park Hotel

If you’re looking for something a bit smaller and more personal, this boutique luxury hotel is a great place to treat your company in the new year. It’s centrally located, just two minutes walk from Hyde Park in three stunning, mid-19th century townhouses. Its style is ‘quintessentially English’ and they pride themselves on great food and service, so you’ll be able to concentrate on the business at hand.