Business Details
Your Unique Event Venue on the Thames
Established in the heart of London's Nine Elms district, Battersea Barge offers a distinctive floating venue moored on the River Thames. With a rich history dating back to its origins as the Maria II in 1932, the barge has been transformed into a versatile event space featuring three decks, a licensed area for weddings, and state-of-the-art facilities. Our venue combines industrial heritage with modern amenities, providing an ideal setting for weddings, corporate events, comedy shows, and private parties. Located just minutes from Vauxhall and Battersea Power Station tube stations, we offer unparalleled views of the iconic power station and London skyline.The lower deck's stage and sound system cater to performances, while the top deck provides an open-air space for ceremonies and celebrations. With flexible hire options, including exclusive use of the entire boat or specific decks, we accommodate events ranging from intimate gatherings to parties for up to 150 guests. Our commitment to quality service, combined with a dog-friendly policy and proximity to public transport, makes Battersea Barge a unique choice for memorable occasions.
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Private Parties
Corporate Events
Comedy Shows
Venue Hire
Live Music
New Year Parties
Drag Brunches
Panto Events
Photo Shoots
Highlights and features
- We offer a licensed wedding venue with Thames views and flexible hire options.
- Our location is minutes from Vauxhall and Battersea Power Station tube stations.
- We provide exclusive use of the entire boat or specific decks for events.
- Our venue includes a professional sound system and stage for performances.
- We have a sister venue, Tamesis Dock, available for alternative bookings.
What people say
Unique venue
Stunning views
Memorable weddings
Lively parties
Excellent staff
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Battersea Barge offers a licensed venue for wedding ceremonies and receptions with Thames views. The top deck accommodates up to 80 seated guests, while the lower deck provides space for celebrations. Couples can choose from customisable packages including dry hire, catering options, or exclusive boat hire. The venue's unique riverside setting and flexible layout create memorable experiences for both intimate and large-scale weddings.
Private Parties
The barge hosts private parties across its three decks, with capacity for up to 150 guests. The lower deck's stage and sound system suit themed events, while the top deck offers open-air entertainment. Hire options include exclusive boat access or specific deck reservations. Flexible timings until midnight on weekends and comprehensive event support ensure tailored experiences for birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions.
Corporate Events
Corporate clients benefit from dedicated spaces for meetings, presentations, and networking. The lower deck's stage accommodates conferences, while the middle and upper decks provide breakout areas. Full boat hire offers exclusive access for team-building activities or product launches. Professional AV support, flexible hire durations until 11pm, and proximity to transport hubs make it ideal for business events requiring a unique London venue.
Live Performances
The venue hosts live performances from comedy acts to musical ensembles. The lower deck's stage features professional lighting and sound systems, with technical support available. Artists can utilise the PA system with prior arrangement of technicians. Regular events include stand-up comedy nights, live music sessions, and themed entertainment, supported by experienced event staff to ensure seamless production.
Venue Hire
Flexible hire options cater to diverse events, from intimate gatherings to large celebrations. Clients can rent specific decks or the entire boat, with packages including technical equipment access. The venue provides sound engineers, AV support, and event coordination. Minimum spend requirements vary by season and time, with deposits securing bookings. Customisable layouts accommodate weddings, corporate functions, and private parties.
Questions
How do I book an event at Battersea Barge?
Complete the online booking form, email, or call during office hours (Mon-Fri 9am-4pm). Specify your event type, preferred date, and group size for confirmation.
What are the hire options available?
Options include whole boat hire (up to 150 guests), individual deck rentals, and exclusive use of specific areas. Prices vary by season and time.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted without prior agreement. The venue offers catering options and a bar with drinks selection.
Is the venue accessible for disabled guests?
The barge has lifts connecting decks, but accessibility features are limited. Contact staff for specific requirements and assistance.
What happens if it rains during an outdoor event?
The outdoor deck is partially covered. Umbrellas and weather-proof clothing are recommended. Alternative indoor arrangements can be made if available.
Are there parking facilities nearby?
A 20-minute parking bay exists near Kirtling Street. The underground car park at Riverlight is within walking distance for visitors requiring parking.
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Reviews (7)
Lyndon P.
Apr 26, 2016
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Wow... Just wow... And not in a good way. I was due to go to some psychedelic acoustic Brazilian night and based on the old reviews and pictures, I was looking forward to it!
Needless to say, I was very disappointed straight off the bat. The place itself is in an awesome location but the barge is so run down, dirty and smells pretty bad. The wine we ordered was so old it was practically just a glass of vinegar. But never mind, let's try make a good thing out of a bad situation. So we went upstairs to enjoy our drinks in the sun. The band was there and... Well... For a chill acoustic band
Needless to say, I was very disappointed straight off the bat. The place itself is in an awesome location but the barge is so run down, dirty and smells pretty bad. The wine we ordered was so old it was practically just a glass of vinegar. But never mind, let's try make a good thing out of a bad situation. So we went upstairs to enjoy our drinks in the sun. The band was there and... Well... For a chill acoustic band
Walsh A.
Jun 19, 2013
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Saw a great show here last night and would highly recommend a visit to the barge if Paul: http://www.paullmartin.com/murderonthebatterseabarge.htm has a show there and you can make it there. The food was good, but not great. The prices were not cheap, but affordable. The show was amazing! The location is a bit hard to find, so make sure you do a good recon on Google Maps before you hop in a cab. Our cab driver was very nice, but had no clue how to get to the barge.
Tami C.
Mar 15, 2013
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I am not too sure if this works on daily basis or its only available to hire. I visited the Battersea Barge a few days ago, but I expected a bit more. It is very romantic, especially on the deck but it can get a bit stuffy inside especially if there are over 50 people inside. I felt the menu was too little and the food wasn't as great.
Qype User Tomril
Dec 28, 2012
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Our Christmas party was here, amazing place. The ambient is dark downstairs but the view from the upper deck is stunning. I do not have much to say about the food, normal to good, but the atmosphere is worthy.
Ian P.
Sep 30, 2011
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Ahoy!
An events boat permanently docked and available for hire. Although also available for private functions I've only been here for a show but I'd imagine a party would be good fun on Battersea Barge. Not a particularly large boat but split over two levels (above and below deck) I'd estimate about 80 people could be accommodated on board but too many more could become problematic. The bar potentially serves a fairly wide range of beers (some good, most average), wines (about 7-9 different whites, reds and sparklys each as well as a couple of ross') and spirits (standard
An events boat permanently docked and available for hire. Although also available for private functions I've only been here for a show but I'd imagine a party would be good fun on Battersea Barge. Not a particularly large boat but split over two levels (above and below deck) I'd estimate about 80 people could be accommodated on board but too many more could become problematic. The bar potentially serves a fairly wide range of beers (some good, most average), wines (about 7-9 different whites, reds and sparklys each as well as a couple of ross') and spirits (standard
Patrick F.
Dec 16, 2009
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Tough to get to, but a great venue. Impressively for a floating bar, it manages to have a selection of drinks on tap, a decently priced wine list, AND a kitchen able to turn out half-decent food. Given the location, it's a place you'd only go to for an event, so it's a good thing they have a calendar of cabaret shows that put the stage to good use (including an annual cabaret panto - don't bring the kids). Or you can hire it for your own do and party on a boat (T-Pain not included). For the lads, make sure you visit the urinal. I pissed myself laughing.
Claire L.
Dec 10, 2008
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The Battersea Barge is essentially a little boat on the Thames, close to Vauxhall train / tube station, which hosts private parties, a restaurant, special events and the occasional gig. I came here for a private party once and I was really inspire to have my own party here once day (although the hire fee's a little high as you can imagine). However, I did have a great time, especially as it was summer and you could look out onto the Thames as you were drinking and watching the sun go down, pretty cool. You should come here and check this place out, the gigs aren't all that great but
