Celebrations & Events

Nestled under the southern end of Waterloo Bridge, BFI Southbank is the home of film and a wonderful place for events of all kinds

Iconic South Bank spaces for every occasion

Hidden behind a secret door, The Drawing Room offers an intimate, speakeasy‑style setting ideal for private dinners and small gatherings. For larger celebrations, the entire BFI Bar & Kitchen can be hired exclusively, with the option to extend your event into the vibrant BFI Riverfront for a seamless riverside experience.

Upstairs, the Balcony Bar is the perfect party space, featuring a wide terrace with sweeping Thames‑side views. Whether you’re planning a private dining experience, corporate event or stylish celebration, our collection of unique venues delivers atmosphere, character and unforgettable backdrops.

Our Spaces

From hidden gems to bright, open terraces, our spaces provide exceptional settings for events of all styles and sizes.

The Drawing Room

The Drawing Room is an exclusive and intimate cocktail bar, ideal for exclusive dinners, meetings and corporate parties. From start to finish the venue guarantees an unforgettable experience.

The secret door hidden behind a bookshelf creates an intriguing atmosphere, along with the period bar, leather furnishing and walls lined with books.

Facilities

  • Free wi-fi access
  • Accessible toilet
  • Outdoor seating

Capacity

40 standing

16 seating

Room Hire

Half day  9:00-13:00

Full day  9:00-17:00

Evening  18:00-23:00

The Balcony Bar

With impressive views over the South Bank and River Thames, the Balcony Bar is an ideal setting for receptions of up to 120 standing guests.

The space includes a private bar and dedicated bathrooms for complete exclusivity, and a lift provides easy access for all guests.

Facilities

  • Free wi-fi access
  • Outdoor seating
  • Disabled access

Capacity

120 seating

60 standing

Room Hire

Half day  9:00-13:00

Full day  9:00-17:00

Evening  18:00-23:00

The Riverfront
The Riverfront

BFI Riverfront Exclusive Hire

On the doorstep of London's South Bank, hiring The Riverfront exclusively is perfect for large events hosting up to 450 guests standing for canapés, larger bites, bowl food and drinks.

Start off with a glass of Champagne and follow on with our fantastic selection of wine, beers and cocktails with a selection of our delicious larger

Facilities

  • Free wi-fi access
  • Outdoor seating
  • Standing capacity
  • Disabled access

Capacity

TBC

Exclusive Hire

Sunday-Wednesday  9:00-16:00 & 16:00-23:00

Thursday-Saturday  9:00-16:00 & 16:00-23:00

The BFI Bar

The BFl Bar is another flexible event space which is perfect for larger groups of up to 350 guests standing.

With great mood lighting and wall to ceiling windows, The BFI Bar is one of the best event spaces in the area.

Facilities

  • Free wi-fi access
  • Outdoor seating
  • Standing capacity

Capacity

TBC

Exclusive Hire

Sunday-Wednesday  9:00-16:00 & 16:00-23:00

Thursday-Saturday  9:00-16:00 & 16:00-23:00

Tell us about your event