It's your turn in the hosting seat but you're not sure where to start? Ever your fairy godmother, we've scoured this county and picked out an eclectic mix of restaurants, bars, pubs and party spots to ensure there's something for everyone. So, whether you're looking to impress the boss, make your nan's day or celebrate with your mates, you'll find the venue for you in our selection of private hire in Essex.
Last edited by Kiera Chapman
Last updated on 26th August 2025
Situated near Woodford underground station, The Travellers Friend is a stalwart in the drinking and dining scene. Featuring a beer garden for the summer months and a private dining room that'll happily fit 65 standing and 28 seated, the historic pub also knocks up hearty dishes for vegans, veggies and carnivores.
One for all the adrenaline junkies, Teamsport Basildon is the place to go for the ultimate work social. Alongside a 40-seater conference room and bar with private hire, this action-packed venue boasts an epic 500-metre track for some light-hearted competition - that is, until the drinks start flowing and office grudges resurface...
The Chequers Matching Green is a charming restaurant with private hire, located between Hertfordshire and Essex. Oozing rustic countryside vibes, their lounge is perfect for family celebrations. As for food, the kitchen whips up a range of sharing platters, steaks, fish dishes and vegetarian-friendly meals.
Make sure to check out Original Plough Chelmsford's party packages and buffet menus when in need of private hire in Essex. Your guests will be tucking into the likes of chorizo and halloumi skewers, BBQ cauli bites or steak and ale pies in no time.
Looking to host a private event with bold flavours and a lively atmosphere? TGI Fridays Basildon is the perfect spot for birthdays, work celebrations, or any special occasion where good food and great vibes are non-negotiable. From loaded burgers and saucy ribs to sizzling chicken fajitas - plus plant-based options like the Vegan Loaded Burger and Frank's® RedHot Strips - the menu has something for every guest, while cocktails ranging from pornstar martinis to Long Island iced teas keep the party flowing.
Conveniently located in Basildon, Fridays is part of a family of Essex venues, including TGI Fridays Braintree, TGI Fridays Lakeside Retail Park, and TGI Fridays Lakeside Quay, so you've got plenty of options for private hire across the county.
When it comes to beautiful interiors, crowd-pleasing menus and tasty drinks, Slug And Lettuce never fails. As well as an upstairs bar and a function room with HD screens that are available for hire, there's outdoor seating and a late-night license. They've also got a restaurant in Chelmsford that's well worth checking out.
After something a little different? Then look no further than Puttshack Lakeside. Nestled inside The Quay intu, this big kids' playground offers a number of food and drink packages, as well as bespoke options suitable for birthdays, hen parties and stag dos.
The semi-private upstairs space at Slug and Lettuce Chelmsford seats 85 and has room for 125 standing for cocktails and sharing platter parties for your birthdays, special occasions and more. There's also the top bar at Romford, the whole 360-capacity venue at Southend on Sea, and a private upstairs room in Colchester.
With space for 200 people, Epping Roof Garden is a gorgeous location for your next event, thanks to views of surrounding areas plus floral decor for an Instagram-worthy backdrop. Better yet, mixologists offer themed cocktails and the team here are well-practised in making sure a range of occasions are catered for, including baby showers, birthday parties and corporate days.
A pub, club and live music venue all in one, Chinnerys is one of the top event spaces in Essex. The 400-capacity venue also touts a stage and equipment - mics, amps, smoke machines - for those looking to ramp up proceedings with a band, whilst staff can be on hand to keep you boozed up till 2am.
