Summer Events
A range of iconic indoor and outdoor spaces to suit summer events
With a number of spaces available, host your summer event at Somerset House. With exclusive and bespoke offers available, panoramic views of the River Thames and the South Bank skyline beyond, our River Terrace is unmatched for its singular atmosphere. Available alongside the Portico Rooms and Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court, our central London location provides a perfect setting for Summer evenings and afternoons alike.
Summer hire includes tailored event security; an in-house, personal Event Manager to support the planning process and preparations; a dedicated Operations Manager to assist on the day, and ensure your event runs smoothly, alongside pre- and post-hire cleaning and maintenance. With daytime and evening options available, our late license for the River Terrace runs though to midnight, and night licenses are available on request and subject to approval.
Our Spaces
The River Terrace
Set against the backdrop of Somerset House’s iconic 18th century façade – and with sweeping views across the Thames – the River Terrace is one of our most exclusive and evocative spaces among our available rooms for Summer parties and receptions. A perfect location for a standing reception for up to 500 guests, hires also include access to the Seamen’s Hall as a wet weather contingency.
Our team is on hand to help you plan your event through, from the first seed of an idea to an unparalleled and memorable event. Our accredited, sustainably minded suppliers can assist with catering, entertainment, drinks and more – be it a barbecue on the terrace or a sunset reception – and you can enhance your guests’ experience by combining access to our diverse cultural programme or tours of our historic and storied central London site.
The Portico Rooms
Set against the backdrop of Somerset House’s iconic 18th century façade – and with sweeping views across the Thames – the River Terrace is one of our most exclusive and evocative spaces among our available rooms for Summer parties and receptions. A perfect location for a standing reception for up to 500 guests, hires also include access to the Seamen’s Hall as a wet weather contingency.
Our team is on hand to help you plan your event through, from the first seed of an idea to an unparalleled and memorable event. Our accredited, sustainably minded suppliers can assist with catering, entertainment, drinks and more – be it a barbecue on the terrace or a sunset reception – and you can enhance your guests’ experience by combining access to our diverse cultural programme or tours of our historic and storied central London site.
The Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court
The emblematic Edmond J. Safra Court, framed by Sir William Chambers’ neoclassical quad, is at the heart of Somerset House and offers a spectacular setting for unforgettable events. Our most sought-after space on-site, the courtyard is centred around the building’s iconic fountains, and framed on all sides by glorious Georgian-era 18th century architecture.
Situated just off of the Strand – a short distance from Waterloo Bridge and Lancaster Place – the courtyard is popular with both the public and Somerset House community alike.
“Everyone and everything at Somerset House was a delight and dream.”
Dentsu Creative
Summer 2025
For the very first time, during June and September 2025, there will be a stretch tent in situ for exclusive use on our glorious River Terrace – ideal for your summer event – offering both shelter and atmosphere into the evening hours. In-demand and available for bookings now, contact the Venue Hire team to explore options and availability, and download our Summer Events Brochure for additional information.
Summer 2026
In a bold new partnership, Somerset House joins forces with trailblazing caterers Moving Venue to offer an unmissable opportunity to take over one of London’s most iconic spaces—the Edmond J. Safra Fountain Court. For a strictly limited summer season, this Grade I-listed courtyard is transformed with sleek, purpose-built structures that fuse heritage with contemporary edge, setting the stage for standout events—from high-impact brand activations and fashion-forward parties to unforgettable weddings and next-level corporate gatherings. Find out more here.