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The economic and social conditions that led to medieval guilds were overtaken by the development of industry and commerce, but livery companies are still surviving and flourishing. Some of these companies still own halls, schools, investments, land and substantial charitable funds. There are about 40 Livery halls and venues in the City of London that are institutions of HQs, Inns of Court or historic landmarks. Some of the most notable ones are as follows: Watermen’s Hall Watermen's Hall is the one of the finest venue for conferences, banquets, receptions, and dinner engagements. Built in the 18th century, Watermen's Hall is every inch a venue boasting historical elegance. The hall itself is a lovely space, full of historical artefacts. The livery hall and its ownership are still active today and is responsible for conducting many important duties, including organising the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. Haberdashers' Hall This is the fourth livery hall to be opened by the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers in Smithfield in 2002. The Haberdasher’s Hall is unique in a way that it is quite contemporary when compared to other traditional London livery halls. It offers six striking rooms, the most impressive of which is the Livery Hall itself, which features an oak and stainless steel tracery in the roof. Haberdasher’s hall is a combination of elegance and beauty. The Goldsmiths Hall The Goldsmiths organisation was the first company to have a hall. The hall has been located in Foster lane since 1339. The blitz damaged the hall leading to its being restored hence was restored in 1947 and refurbished in 1990. Goldsmiths hall has 6 large chandeliers, and the livery hall is a finely proportioned room, richly decorated with moulded ceiling fixtures. Armourers’ Hall Armourers’ Hall has a unique character that has remained generally untouched by the modern era. The hall is full of deep mahogany wood furnishings and huge portraits. As in the case with other halls, the space is used regularly by its members. The hall is also used as a reception venue for many companies. Stationers’ Hall Stationer’s Hall is located in an alley leading from Fleet Street. It is quite a romantic building full of character and warmth. The Stationers’ hall is regularly in use for events such as the Giles Deacon Fashion show and was used in the filming of an episode of BBC Three’s Don’t Tell the Bride. Mercer’s Hall. The Mercer’s hall was destroyed in the Great Fire of London, but was rebuilt in 1668-76 under the guidance of Edward Jarman. The building was used by the Bank of England in 1694 and later by the East India Company in 1702. The building was destroyed for a second time during the Blitz and then rebuilt between 1954-8. Mercer’s Hall is quite unique amongst other Livery Halls London has to offer because it has a chapel. Middle Temple Hall The Middle Temple Hall is one the finest Elizabethan halls in the country. It has an original oak roof and stained glass windows that have provided a backdrop for many period-drama films. The main hall has carved panelling which looks a treat when used as part of winter events, while the venue’s award-winning garden provides a lovely place for evening receptions. The location is good for accessing both the city centre and the West-End. If you would like to host an upcoming event in the splendour and beauty of a Livery Hall, visit Life’s Kitchen to arrange a booking and choose from many
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