This is a guest post from Tommy Shane, Venue Expert at UK based startup Hire Space. You can follow him @hirespace.

Finding a unique venue is high up on many people’s lists of priorities when booking an event, something which has become more and more difficult over time. London is bursting with iconic sites, from beautiful palaces to world famous museums that people come from miles around to see, many of which can be hired for anything from parties to conferences and meetings. These venues have the ability to provide a unique, unexpected experience and an opportunity to see these places in a completely different light.

So we’ve chosen six of the best venues you never knew you could hire, all of which are sure to impress your guests, whatever the occasion.

The Tower of London

The Tower of London is one of the world’s most iconic fortresses, a magnificent palace that has played host to 1,000 years of historic dramas, countless conspiracies, sieges and Royal ceremonies. It’s walls are filled with history and believe it or not, there are a variety of spaces you can hire for parties, meetings, dinners and more.

London Dungeons

Remember, Remember the 5th November. As it’s Bonfire Night tomorrow we couldn’t leave out the Guy Fawkes show set within the London Dungeons. Available for evening hire, you can treat your guests to a spooky Dungeon Experience and create an atmospheric drinks party or reception in spooky and atmospheric surroundings for up to 150 people.

Tudor Kitchens at Hampton Court Palace

The Tudor Kitchens at Hampton Court Palace is a historical and unusual setting for an event. Featuring a magnificent palace fireplace, it’s a great space for a drinks reception with an unexpected 15th century twist. The fire can be lit for those chilly winter nights and costumed food historians are an available addition to entertain up to 150 guests with stories of Tudor recipes.

Kensington Palace

Surrounded by parkland, Kensington Palace is an oasis in the middle of the hustle and bustle of London. There are eight different spaces available within the palace where guests can feel like royalty for the evening. Home to many different members of the Royal family over the years, including Princess Diana, there is a sense of history within the beautiful interiors and gardens of Kensington Palace.  

Science Museum

When all the tourists have left, the Science Museum is available for evening hire. An ‘out of this world’ space to hold a corporate event or party. Guests can have drinks or dinner surrounded by exhibits that tell the fascinating story of space exploration. It is perfect for larger drinks receptions for up to 300 people, or 180 guests for dinner beneath real rockets. Guests can marvel at a full-sized replica of the ‘Eagle’, the lander that took astronauts Armstrong and Aldrin to the moon in 1969 and discover how they could live in space with displays of astronauts’ food and drink.

The Aquarium

Imagine networking, launching a product or  hosting an awards ceremony surrounded by sea creatures, that’s definitely something you don’t see every day. Suited to celebrations of all kinds, the London Aquarium is a stunning and unusual place to hold an event, it’s atmospheric and you can’t help but be fascinated by the wonders of the deep blue sea swimming by.