What to look for in a Christmas party venue

The pressure of organising a Christmas party should not be underestimated. How do you please everyone at the most eagerly anticipated party of the year?

Here are our tips on what to look out for when trying to find a Christmas party venue that’s right for you.

1. Space

Picture the scene: your festive group is sitting squashed at the back of a restaurant that has crammed in as many tables and chairs into a room as possible. You feel like a sardine, constantly knocking elbows with your neighbour, while the waiting staff bump into your table every time they pass. And you’re probably sitting next to the bathroom too. Everyone’s been at a Christmas party like this. Choosing a venue that can properly accommodate your group is the most important aspect to getting your Christmas party right. It really can make or break the occasion.

At The Runnymede on Thames, space is not an issue! With two restaurants to choose from and various suites, parties of all sizes are welcome. One of our favourites is the Grand Union Suite, where we’re hosting both private parties and party nights this Christmas season. During our Christmas Party Nights, groups of 10 to 50 people can enjoy a party with lots of others. This includes welcome drinks, a three-course menu, half a bottle of wine each, festive fudge and mini mince pies, followed by dancing to the sounds of our resident DJ. Larger groups of up to 250 people can hire the suite for their own private festive party.

2. Tradition vs. originality

A key consideration during Christmas party planning season is to know your audience. Are they a traditional bunch who won’t be happy unless they have a sit-down turkey lunch, complete with a Christmas cracker and wonky paper hat? Or are they looking to be impressed with an original party idea? If you’re not sure, get your group to complete a poll. This helps to manage expectations and you can choose the most popular option based on evidence. Democracy at work!

We can do traditional or original at The Runnymede on Thames. We’ve got loads of options for sit down turkey meals to suit different group sizes. Those looking for a low-key but alternative idea should consider our Festive Afternoon Tea, complete with indulgent Christmas Champagne. Or for a little wow-factor, party-goers can climb aboard our Christmas party boat. The New Queen of the Thames will welcome you for festive fizz, a Christmas themed finger buffet, tea, coffee, festive confectionary, Christmas crackers and music from an on-board DJ.

3. Dietary requirements

When organising group events, you can count on having to accommodate various different dietary requirements. Don’t risk disappointing people or leaving them hungry: find out if a venue can cater for these different requirements. Ask for specific information so you know exactly what alternative meals will be provided.

All our Christmas parties can cater to different dietary requirements – you just need to let us know in advance. Another great option for accommodating people with different food needs or tastes is to host your Christmas party in our Leftbank riverside restaurant. We’re offering festive midweek buffet lunches or party nights, where our festive three-course buffet provides plenty of food options for all courses. For the party nights, we’ll even throw in some festive fizz, half a bottle of wine each and a DJ.

4. Logistics

Remember to think about all the details when planning your Christmas party to make sure your venue is a practical option. For example, is there a car park, is it an easy location to get taxis to, and is the venue fully accessible for the less able?

At The Runnymede on Thames, the answer is yes to all these questions. Just bring yourselves and we’ll take care of the festivities. Cheers!