The new mantra of Visit London Business and Conventions, formerly the London Convention Bureau, seems to be "Tradition and Innovation." And nothing in London better exemplifies that phrase than The Conference Suite at St. Paul’s Cathedral in the heart of the City of London. Located in the crypt of Sir Christopher Wren’s historic cathedral, the conference suite, with its vaulted ceiling and warm-hued stone walls, combines neo-classical architecture (the cathedral was completed in 1710) with 21st-century technology. Modern AV equipment, rear-screen projection, high-speed Internet access are all here, along with acoustics so excellent that, even though they’re available, microphones aren’t necessary. The suite can accommodate 36 people for board meetings, up to 80 for seminars. With the adjoining "Beehive," a circular, domed antechamber ideal for breakouts, the rooms can accommodate 350 for a reception.
For more "tradition," the Tower of London is available to groups—and a private viewing of the Crown Jewels can be arranged. Or how about hosting a reception atop the Wellington Arch? Or the 18th-century Somerset House, newly opened to groups, offers a riverside venue for head counts between 8 and 2,000. It houses a stunning collection of art, including that of the Courtauld Institute of Art. And in winter, a skating rink covers the courtyard. It too can be utilized for events. And of course, many of London’s venerable museums, including the Victoria & Albert, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum, all offer spectacular venues, especially after museum hours when groups can take over the galleries. 