THE HEATWAVE GOT US THINKING....

Summer in London comes with a familiar challenge: finding somewhere for "one quick drink" that inevitably turns into several hours of good conversation, people watching and occasionally a bit of event inspiration.

As a team, we're constantly exploring spaces that bring people together well. Sometimes that's a festival, sometimes it's a community event, and sometimes it's simply a venue that understands atmosphere. Here are a few of our favourites.

Best Community Pub

Al's Pick: The Fox, Hanwell

As we prepare to partner with Hanwell Hootie again as part of our Canal Festival programme, Al has naturally chosen a West London favourite.

The Fox sits right in the heart of Hanwell and perfectly captures what we love about community events. Throughout the year the area comes alive through local music, community celebrations and of course Hanwell Hootie itself.

"The best venues become part of the identity of a place. The Fox feels like that. It belongs to Hanwell." — Al

Best Venue for Live Music

Shanta's Pick: Tooting Tram & Social

If there's music involved, there's a good chance Shanta has either been there already or is planning to go. Tooting Tram & Social has built a reputation around live music, comedy, DJs and cultural events, making it exactly the sort of venue we love to see thriving.

"Honestly, my favourite venue is probably just wherever the party is." — Shanta

Best Rooftop

Emma's Pick: NT's Loft

Emma recently popped back for a KIT day and quickly reminded everyone she still knows all the good spots. NT's Loft has become a fixture of East London summers thanks to its rooftop setting, music programme and relaxed atmosphere.

Best Riverside Spot

Jamie's Pick: The Duke's Head, Putney

Living in South West London means Jamie is never far from the river.

The Duke's Head has one of the best riverside settings in the city and sits in an area that regularly hosts rowing events, community celebrations and seasonal activity.

"Sometimes all you need is a good venue, a view and decent weather. Two out of three isn't bad for London." — Jamie

🎪 Best Place for Summer Programming

Laura H's Pick: Between the Bridges

Joining us on a freelance basis this summer, Laura H has chosen one of London's most impressive seasonal event destinations. From live music and comedy to food traders and pop-up experiences, Between the Bridges is a masterclass in creating a temporary destination that people actively seek out.

Best All-Rounder

Laura K's Pick: Pergola on the Wharf

Food, drinks, live entertainment and waterside views. Pergola has become a staple of Canary Wharf's summer programme and demonstrates how hospitality venues can become event destinations in their own right.

Honourable Mention

Megan's Pick: The Herne Tavern, East Dulwich

For Megan, a great summer venue is one that works just as well for families as it does for catching up with friends. The Herne Tavern has a huge garden, a relaxed atmosphere and is one of those places that always feels busy when the sun is shining. From family events and seasonal gatherings to lazy Sunday afternoons, it's a great example of a venue that naturally brings people together.

Why We Love These Places

Looking across the list, the common thread isn't actually food or drink. It's that feeling.

The venues we return to time and again are the ones that give people a reason to come back. Whether that's live music, comedy, cultural events, community celebrations or simply a great atmosphere, they're all examples of places that understand how experiences help build identity.

And that's exactly what we love creating through our own events.