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Culture, curiosities and champagne: Museums

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In celebration of International Museum Day (18 May), Conference News explores 10 of the UK’s most awe-inspiring museum venues where culture, architecture, and atmosphere combine to create unforgettable event experiences for delegates

1. Natural History Museum, London

Wow factor: The iconic Hintze Hall, with its soaring Romanesque arches and dramatic blue whale skeleton, is a showstopper.

Event capacity: Up to 1,200 for receptions.

Notable features: Galleries with dinosaurs, gemstones, and Earth sciences can be opened for private viewings.

*Main hall of Oxford museum of Natural History*

2. Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), London

Wow factor: A stunning blend of art, fashion, and design heritage, with exquisite marble and mosaic interiors.

Event capacity: The Raphael Court and John Madejski Garden are popular for glamorous evening events.

Vibe: Grand, elegant, and historic with a modern flair.

*The name sign and facade of the Young Victoria and Albert Museum situated in Bethnal Green.*

3. The British Museum, London

Wow factor: The Great Court — a glass-domed architectural marvel by Norman Foster — is one of the most striking spaces in London.

Event capacity: Up to 1,000 guests.

Bonus: Private access to the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian galleries.

*A dynamic scene of tourists walking down a grand staircase with a statue centerpiece in the British Museum*

4. Tate Modern, London

Wow factor: A bold, industrial-chic venue on the South Bank with views of the Thames and St Paul’s.

Event spaces: The Turbine Hall, East Room, and Level 10 offer flexible contemporary options.

For modern tastes: Perfect for edgy product launches or creative gala dinners.

*Tate Modern gallery and Millenium bridge*

5. National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh

Wow factor: A spectacular fusion of Victorian elegance and cutting-edge architecture, with soaring atriums and dramatic lighting.

Event spaces: The Grand Gallery and Hawthornden Court are standout venues.

Unique appeal: Host guests among ancient artefacts, from Scottish history to natural sciences.

National Museum of Scotland with unidentified people. In 2016 the museum had 1.81 million visitors that year, making it Scotland’s most popular visitor attraction, Dolly the sheep is on display here, the first mamal cloned from a cell.

6. Ashmolean Museum, Oxford

Wow factor:The world’s oldest public museum offers neoclassical grandeur and access to priceless art collections.

Event capacity: Up to 900 for receptions.

Best for: Prestigious academic or cultural events.

*The facade of the Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology on Beaumont Street. It is the world’s first university museum.*

7. The Design Museum, London

Wow factor: A sleek, contemporary space in Kensington with a minimalist aesthetic and a focus on innovation.

Ideal for: High-end product launches, awards, and networking events.

Bonus: Stunning views of Holland Park from the atrium.

*The Design Museum, housed in a landmark Grade II listed modernist building from the 1960s, which was originally the Commonwealth Institute.*

8. Ulster Museum, Belfast

Wow factor:: An unexpected gem in Northern Ireland with dynamic galleries and stylish, versatile event spaces.

Themes: Natural history, art, and the Troubles.

Atmosphere: Cultural depth with a distinctly modern edge.

9. Royal Armouries Museum, Leeds

Wow factor: A bold, dramatic backdrop showcasing over 8,500 weapons and armour from around the world.

Event space: The impressive New Dock Hall accommodates up to 1,000 guests.

Perfect for: Themed events and dramatic banquets.

*A dusk shot of the Royal Armouries Museum in Leeds, highlighting its modern glass tower and reflective surfaces. The museum, a prominent cultural landmark, stands tall against the soft evening light.*

10. National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London

Wow factor: Set within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with regal maritime architecture and views across the Thames.

Venue highlights: The Great Map and Neptune Court for large receptions.

Great for: Elegant dinners and nautical-themed occasions.

*The National Maritime Museum has the most important holdings in the world on the history of Britain at sea comprising more than two million items, including maritime art*

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