About London
In southeastern England, London is the capital of the United Kingdom as well as one of the world’s oldest cities with a history going back 2,000 years. The city boasts a major influence in tourism, arts, media, and entertainment so you can find a variety of things to do and see when you are in town.
The climate in London is temperate oceanic with mild winters and warm summers so outdoor activities are popular. In fact, there are approximately 3,000 parks to enjoy. A baby shower venue in London would be fantastic whether it is held indoors or out, any time of the year.
Interesting fact: Although English people drive on the left side of the road, there is one street in London where you can drive on the right side. Savoy Court off the Strand is the only place in the country where it is legal.
Baby Shower Options in London
Whether your baby shower is inside or outside, you are going to have a lot of planning to do, so why not share the workload with local companies that are experts in event planning? London has a variety of catering companies, decorators, furniture and equipment rental, and photographers as well as entertainment and transportation.
- Catering
No matter how many guests you are planning, hiring a catering company is the best idea. Let them plan the menu, make the food, serve the guests, and clean up afterward. That way you can relax and enjoy the party.
- Decorating
You do not have to do the decorating this time. It is much better to find a professional to handle all that for you. Then you can concentrate on something else, like exploring London.
- Furniture and Equipment Rental
Your guests will need a place to sit, and you will need tables as well as fun props like a photo booth and games. London has a bunch of furniture and equipment rental companies who will bring it all, set it up, and pick it up afterward.
- Photographers
This is an important event, and you will want to make sure you have plenty of photos and videos to remember it all. Get a professional to get all the important memories so you can look back at this day for years to come.
Baby Shower Companies in London
Whether you are inviting 50 or 500, you can find what you need for your London baby shower venue.
- Eden Caterers
If you are planning an afternoon tea, a seated dinner, or just some canapés, Eden Caterers can do all of that and then some. In fact, they have been feeding Londoners since 1993. They love what they do, and it shows in every piece of food they prepare. Some of the dishes they serve include roasted chicken with dauphinoise potatoes, pan-roasted salmon with spinach, and traditional fish and chips with tartar sauce.
- Event Décor Hire
From chairs and tables to flowers and dance floors, Event Décor Hire has what you need and more. If you need a stage, they have it. Or a DJ booth? They have that too. They even have sequined tablecloths and flower walls. Get a photo booth and props too for your guests to get their own fun photos.
- Fox Limousines
For more than 20 years, Fox Limousines has been driving Londoners all over London. All their drivers are CRB checked and licensed as well as well-dressed and professional. And you can get any kind of car you want from a limousine to a party bus or even a vintage 1946 Wraith!
Pros and Cons of Baby Showers in London
When planning a baby shower in a different city, it is best to know all of the ups and downs of the city. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of having a baby shower venue in London.
Advantages
- Plenty of entertainment
Where else can you see Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, and do some dancing at some exciting clubs? Only London, of course.
- Great weather
With winters in the 60s and summers in the 80s, the weather in London is pretty fantastic. No need for your snow boots or long johns but you will need your shades (and a rain jacket on occasion).
- Lots of venues
Whether you are planning a small outdoor party or a huge celebration, you can find a plethora of different venues. Parks, gardens, convention centres, and restaurants are all available for rent.
- Public transportation
The city of London has an awesome public transportation system. You have probably heard of the London Underground or Tube but there is also the Docklands Light Railway, trains, trams, buses, and even river buses.
Disadvantages
- High crime rate
About 102 people per 1,000 in London are victims of crime but if you do your homework you can avoid the worst places to go.
- Traffic is bad
One reason to take public transportation or hire a limousine is that the traffic is horrible.
- The crowds
Being a very well-populated city, you will notice that it can get pretty crowded in some of the popular areas. And the thousands of tourists don’t help matters.
- High cost of living
You will notice that everything costs quite a bit more than you expected. Even for a large tourist town, the cost of living is out of the normal range. Still, with a budget and expert help, a baby shower is entirely doable.
Famous Locations in London
- The London Eye
Also known as the Millennium Wheel, the London Eye is a 443-foot observation wheel similar to a giant Ferris wheel, only fancier. This fantastic way to see the sights boasts 32 passenger pods that seat up to 25 people and the ride lasts about 30 minutes. Book a refreshing Parisian terrace nearby for a unique baby shower venue in London.
- Buckingham Palace
Be sure to reserve a guided tour of Buckingham Palace while you are in London. You cannot miss seeing the royal palace and all the treasures inside like paintings by van Dyck, Rubens, and Rembrandt. Built in 1703, the palace has 775 rooms including 52 royal bedrooms, 188 staff bedrooms, and 78 bathrooms.
- Tower of London
Also known as Her Majesty’s Royal Palace, this historic castle on the River Thames was built in 1078 and you can get a tour to see all sorts of cool things. Some of these include the Crown Jewels, royal armouries, battlements, and where Henry VIII had Anne Boleyn executed. To keep with the city atmosphere, rent a traditional French restaurant for your baby shower close by.