Royal College of Music opens exclusive event space in London for Summer socials

The Royal College of Music, the global no. 1 institution for performing arts, is opening the doors of its 1851 Courtyard & RCM Café for summer events and parties.

The red brick 1851 Courtyard is a hidden gem and suntrap in the heart of South Kensington. Full of original features and connected to the stunning Cotes-Burgan atrium with its high glass ceiling, it’s the ideal spot to enjoy the longer evenings, whatever the weather. 

The 1851 Courtyard & RCM Café can accommodate up to 280 guests for a standing summer social. A built-in bar in the RCM Café can be utilised for events, while clients also have the option of utilising the talented RCM students, who can provide live music from upbeat jazz to classical recitals, in the Courtyard.

To further enhance summer events hosted at the RCM, the RCM Museum, provides a great opportunity for private guided tours around the impressive collection which represents music-making over a period of more than five centuries. Highlights of the collection on permanent display include the earliest known guitar, the earliest stringed keyboard instrument, and the most recognised portraits of Joseph Haydn and Farinelli.

Catering options for summer events are available from a list of accredited suppliers, including Alexander and Bjorck, Food by Dish, Food Show, Imperial College Catering and Moving Venue.

Vicky Moran, Head of Events and Corporate Partnerships at the Royal College of Music, comments: “We’re really looking forward to opening the doors to the 1851 Courtyard and RCM Café for some memorable summer celebrations. With access to both the courtyard and café, clients can rest assured that their summer social can go ahead whatever the weather!”

As a place of education and charity, events that take place at the College will directly support the development of the next generation of talented musicians.


To enquire about hosting a summer event at The Royal College of Music, contact the team by emailing venuehire@rcm.ac.uk or calling 020 7591 4320