Discover Porchester Hall
Located at the junction of Queensway and Porchester Road in Westminster, Porchester Hall is a 1929 art deco building famed for its grandiose style and versatility. In its Main Hall—the star of the show—the venue can accommodate a maximum of 630 guests, while smaller rooms offer the opportunity for more intimate events. Combining this versatility with its marble walls, ornate bronze and wrought iron staircases, and sparkling crystal chandeliers, it’s no wonder the Grade II* listed landmark is a go-to choice for weddings, concerts, and everything in between.
The History of Porchester Hall
Porchester Hall was built between 1923 and 1925 by local architect Herbert Shepherd. The 1927-1929 extensions by Shepherd and H.A. Thomerson added Victorian-style Turkish baths, a library, and assembly rooms.
These additions earned the complex recognition as one of the best-preserved examples of its kind. English Heritage notes that the Turkish baths are "exceptionally rare," while the hall itself stands as a richly detailed example of its time.
The Hall was intended as a versatile venue for concerts, dances, receptions, and more. But it didn’t take long for the hall’s beauty and convenience to attract admirers beyond its neighbourhood.
Over the years the Hall has hosted international musicians, high-profile television recordings, and even London Fashion Week events. Highlights include performances by Amy Winehouse, Arcade Fire, Kylie Minogue, and Pink Floyd.
It has also made appearances on BBC’s "Question Time” and served as the location for Beyoncé's "Black Is King" broadcast and Monty Python’s "The Meaning of Life." The hall also has a history of hosting extravagant balls, including the famed Porchester Hall Drag Balls of the '60s and '70s.
Features and Design Details of Porchester Hall
Exterior Design
Porchester Hall’s grandeur begins even before you step inside. The exterior, crafted from Portland stone and Cornish granite, sets an elegant and sophisticated tone. Teak woodwork and bronze details around the windows hint at the luxury waiting within. The hall’s foundation stone, laid by Mayor Leonard Snell, JP, remains at its main entrance.
Stepping Inside: Main Entrance and Other Details
Just inside, ornamental bronze and wrought iron banisters line the hall’s grand staircase, marble walls glisten under the light, and a crystal chandelier provides a dazzling focal point. The hall’s functionality is enhanced by practical features like a fully licensed bar and a commercial-grade kitchen equipped to cater to 450 guests. Cleverly designed dumbwaiter lifts connect the kitchen to the bar below, ensuring seamless service for any event.
The Main Hall
The main hall itself is a showstopper. English oak and walnut paneling line the walls, while plush crimson velvet curtains add a touch of theatrical flair. Above, ten crystal chandeliers glimmer against a beautifully engraved ceiling, their gold-leaf accents catching the light.
The sprung oak parquet floor offers an ideal space for dancing, while the oak-paneled stage, complete with an art deco skylight and the Borough of Paddington coat of arms, serves as the perfect backdrop for performances.
The main hall can comfortably accommodate up to 630 standing guests or 400 seated, making it perfect for everything from swanky weddings to charity galas.
Small Hall, Duchess of York Suite, and Blue Room
Need a more cosy space? Porchester Hall can do it all! Beyond the main hall, there are a variety of intimate spaces like the Blue Room, which offers a charming setting for smaller events or acting as extensions to the larger spaces.
The Duchess of York Room, located behind the stage, provides a private area for dressing, organizing, or even functioning as a crèche. Meanwhile, the Small Hall is perfect for more intimate gatherings, offering a flexible setup for up to 50 people. People hire this space typically for children’s birthday parties, karate classes, and small meetings.
Swimming Pool & Spa
If you think Porchester Hall is only about stunning interiors, think again. Adjacent to the hall is a beautifully renovated swimming pool built in 1929 and the iconic Porchester Turkish Baths. This gem isn’t just a pretty face—it’s a fully functional spa delivering old-world relaxation right in the heart of London.
Featured Events at Porchester Hall
If you couldn't already tell, Porchester Hall is a premier event venue that hosts a wide range of special occasions. Here are some of the featured events regularly hosted at the Hall:
- Fashion Shows: The venue’s glamorous aesthetic makes it a preferred location for fashion shows from top designers around the world.
- Weddings: Planning your big day? Porchester Hall’s Art Deco beauty makes it a top choice for weddings.
- Concerts: Porchester Hall has long been known as one of London’s most intimate and atmospheric music venues.
- Charity Events: Porchester Hall offers special discount rates for UK-registered charities and is an elegant setting for all kinds of charity events, including balls, gala dinners, and fundraisers.
- Corporate Events: Looking for a venue that will impress your colleagues or clients? Porchester Hall’s versatility makes it an ideal location for everything from conferences and corporate meetings to team-building events and awards ceremonies.
- Christmas Parties: Celebrate the festive season in style at Porchester Hall. Its proximity to several Tube stations ensures convenience, making it an ideal choice for a seasonal celebration with friends, family, or colleagues.
- Special Occasions: Porchester Hall is ideal for marking any special occasion, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, religious festival, or even a funeral wake.
- Other Events: Other events at the hall include community gatherings, exhibitions, live performances, meetings, and more.
Visiting Porchester Hall
Porchester Hall is available for hire throughout the week, making it a popular choice for events ranging from charity galas and concerts to fashion shows, conferences, and even exams.
The closest station to Porchester Hall is Royal Oak, just a short walk away. The venue is also easily accessible from Bayswater and Queensway stations on the Hammersmith & City and Central Lines.
If driving, there are two NCP car parks within 100 yards, offering convenient parking. Additionally, you can find ample street parking in the area after 6:30 pm on weekdays and all day on Sundays.
Explore Beyond Porchester Hall with CityDays
While Porchester Hall may be the jewel in Bayswater’s crown, there’s so much more to discover in London, and CityDays is here to help you explore it all!
The best way to discover more hidden gems around London is to take your time and, ideally, have a pre-planned route that takes you past all the noteworthy nooks and hidden gems.
We can help you there!
The City combines the fun of an outdoor treasure hunt with the historic facts and whimsical trivia of a walking tour.
Answer riddles, solve puzzles and learn more about London’s 2000-year-old history in a new and interactive way!
Take the stress out of planning your visit to London and book your adventure today!
Not visiting London this time? Don’t worry, you’ll find us all over the world.
