Venue Hire & Meeting Rooms

Hiring HLSI

“A beautiful setting for our birthday celebrations”

At Highgate Literary & Scientific Institution, we look forward to hosting your private function. Whether you are looking for a venue for a large-scale celebration or party, or a smaller meeting, our experienced team will work hard to ensure you have an excellent experience from start to finish.

We are fortunate to be located in a beautiful Grade II listed building at the centre of Highgate Village, overlooking Pond Square, rich in historical and cultural associations. Our building is ideal to host a variety of events such as birthday parties, wedding ceremonies / celebrations, life celebrations, concerts, AGMs, book launches, meetings, photo shoots and filming.

See Our Spaces for floor plans and prices.

Do not hesitate to get in touch to discuss your requirements: luca.morelli@hlsi.org.uk

More information

History

We started life in 1839 as one of the first institutions set up in the wake of the industrial revolution to share knowledge of the new scientific advances of the day – and we’re one of a handful remaining. HLSI is now a busy educational and social charity, still serving the local community.

Inside HLSI, you’ll see the evidence of our fascinating history:

  • the gallery of past Presidents lining the corridor
  • our atmospheric library
  • the high-ceilinged Victoria Hall with its large carved crest (marking the local rescue of Queen Victoria herself as her carriage looked likely to run free down Highgate West Hill!)
  • And when the Victoria Hall is not being used for an artist’s exhibition, HLSI’s own historical paintings and prints of the area are on display

Technical facilities

In the elegant, high-ceilinged Victoria Hall we have a professional audio-visual system:

  • The small stage has a lectern with microphones, and a connection to PC or Mac and projector
  • Speakers might want to use our wireless laser pointer for presentations or the lapel microphone
  • We also have two hand-held microphones
  • There’s a large projection wall behind the stage for films or presentations
  • A loop system for those who use hearing aids
  • Tables, chairs, easels and music stands are available if needed

Our two upstairs meeting rooms are flexible spaces suitable for a variety of functions:

  • Seating and table arrangements allow for classroom or round table set-up
  • Smart TVs are wall-mounted for presentations
  • A mini-kitchen is on hand for coffees and teas
  • A spacious cloakroom is conveniently nearby

Kitchen and Catering Facilities

Our kitchen on the ground floor is well set-up for the presentation of food for events:

  • The kitchen adjoins both the Victoria Hall and Members’ Room
  • There are 2 fridges, a double electric oven, large double sink, stainless steel preparation surfaces and a small dishwasher
  • The layout in the Victoria Hall is very flexible, with upholstered chairs and tables (each table measures 183 x 70cm)
  • There’s access for deliveries via a side door if needed
wedding

What people are saying about us...

Recommended Caterers

A beautifully presented savoury dish being served to a dressed table

Blackpot

Main Contact: Lisa Silcock

Black Pot is a small, thriving business based in North London and we’ve been catering at the wonderful HLSI since 2016. We tailor every event to our clients’ individual tastes and needs and have established a reputation for glorious food and faultless, friendly service.

We specialise in beautiful canapés, colourful plates and big flavours using seasonal and sustainable ingredients. We cater every occasion from large weddings to small gatherings and would love to hear from you.

A selection of cakes, sandwiches and coffees

Pink Food

Main Contact: Kay Knowlton

PINK Catering & Events provides outstanding, innovative food supported by friendly and professional service for every occasion. Now in its twenty second year, the company is as passionate as ever about ensuring that you get the experience you are seeking.

Whether it’s your wedding, a formal corporate function, or a relaxed private party, PINK’s primary focus will always be on producing exceptional food and providing outstanding service.

Based in London, our team of chefs work with the very best and freshest ingredients, locally sourced and sensitive to the seasons wherever possible.