Top Ideas for Hosting Best of British Themed Events

As a country that is famous for its rich heritage and outright patriotism, it’s no surprise that we Brits want to incorporate our love for our country into our events.

In 2025, we will see the 80th anniversary of VE Day; there’s no better time to celebrate with a Best of British themed event!

This milestone offers a unique opportunity to honour Britain’s rich history and cultural heritage. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, gala dinner, or community gathering, embracing British traditions can create a memorable experience for all attendees.

In this blog, we’ll look at some unique ideas you can use when hosting your next British themed event, looking at different venue dressing and event production options, a selection of entertainment and many other features that might offer you inspiration!

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Decoration and Venue Dressing For British Themed Events

When decorating a venue space for British themed events, it is no exaggeration to say that the possibilities are endless. Since you are able to choose any part of British culture for your themed events, you can really get creative with it.

Using a selection of event production services such as staging, lighting and AV, venue dressing and more, we can help transform your event space into a Best of British themed event.

Creating an authentic British ambiance and themed events space is key to immersing your guests in the theme.

Let’s get into some unique theme and decoration ideas to achieve this.

1. Traditional British Pub Theming

As a nation that loves pubs, why not transform your venue into a classic British pub?

Complete with wooden furnishings, vintage signage and cozy lighting, this theme offers a unique British feel to achieve an authentic British atmosphere.

Past the theming itself, you can enhance the experience by offering traditional British beverages such as ales, ciders and iconic cocktails like Pimm’s.

Creating The Theme:

• Mobile Bars:
  • Set up portable bars that serve a selection of British drinks!
  • View our range of mobile bar options.

• Themed Drinks and Catering: Offer a menu featuring British culinary delights, from fish and chips to shepherd’s pie, paired with appropriate beverages.

• Pub Party Singalong Show:
  • Engage guests with live entertainment reminiscent of a lively British pub atmosphere.

This theme is one of our personal favourites as you can bring pubs and pub culture, one of the UK’s most iconic attractions, into any event.

In addition to having a full bar set up and serving drinks, you can use event props such as dart boards, pool tables, TVs playing British sports, and a range of local ales to create a realistic night for your guests!

TOP TIP: Another way you can enhance your British pub Themed Events is by serving a range of “Pub Grub” catering. (Famous pub food such as fish & chips, Steak & Ale pie etc.)

For people that spend a lot of time down the local pub with their friends, it will be a familiar experience that they are sure to enjoy.

2. Royal British Theming

Celebrate the grandeur of the British monarchy by designing your event with a royal theme.

Incorporate regal colours like gold, red, white and purple and dress the venue with royal insignias and luxurious drapery.

To bring this theme to life:

• Royal Lookalikes:
  • Invite impersonators of notable British royals to mingle with guests, adding a touch of authenticity and excitement.

• Royal Anniversaries:
  • Align your event with significant royal milestones occurring this year, such as ‘Trooping the Colour’ and ‘Royal Ascot’ both taking place in June 2025 to add relevance and depth to the celebration.

This form of British themed events is very popular amongst private clients throughout the year, especially during British celebrations such as the Platinum Jubilee and royal weddings.

This theming focuses more on the British aristocracy by using decorations such as thrones, gold chariots, red carpets and other antique-styled items.

This theme is an excellent way to celebrate any occasion, due to its luxurious style and upscale manner.

In addition to using a selection of decorations for this theme, using the correct draping is crucial, as you are trying to create a lavish setting similar to Buckingham Palace.

3. Retro 1960’s Theming

For something a bit different, you could look at the iconic 1960’s theme; a defining decade for Britain, known for its bold fashion, groundbreaking music and cultural revolutions.

A 1960s British themed event offers an exciting and vibrant atmosphere, making it perfect for any celebration.

Whether you want to evoke the swinging London vibe or pay homage to iconic British bands, this theme promises to transport your guests back in time.

Creating The Theme:

• Psychedelic Patterns:
  • Incorporate bold, colourful patterns and designs on walls, curtains and table settings.

• Retro Set Designs, Posters and Decorations:
  • Showcase iconic imagery from the era, including posters of legendary British bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones.

• Mod Style:
  • Consider incorporating mod elements like geometric shapes, black-and-white checkered floors and stylish 60s furniture for a London pop culture vibe.

Entertainment and attractions are very important in creating an immersive 1960’s atmosphere at your event, such as:

• Live Tribute Bands:
  • Bring the 1960s to life with tribute bands that perform hits from The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and other British icons.

• 1960’s Themed Entertainers:
  • Immerse your guests in the theme with themed roaming performers and dancers.

• 1960’s Icon Lookalikes:
  • Hire impersonators to mingle with guests and recreate iconic figures from the 1960s, such as British fashion icons, famous musicians or even iconic movie characters.

• Retro Photo Booths:
  • Provide photo booths with vintage props and backdrops for guests to capture memories in 60s style.

By thoughtfully integrating these decor and entertainment options, your 1960s themed event will offer an authentic and memorable experience that resonates with the charm and excitement of the decade.

For more ideas on creating this theme, take a look at the 1960’s themed event we done in the iconic London BT Tower.

4. World War VE Day Theme

With VE Day celebrations happening this year, a wartime British theme is a fantastic way to honour history while hosting an engaging event.

Creating The Theme:

• Vintage Military Props and Posters – set the scene with authentic-looking props.
• Union Jack Banners – a patriotic display.
• Authentic 1940s Furniture and Decor – Recreate a period-accurate atmosphere.
• Street Party Setups – Long banquet tables with themed decorations.

Choosing The Entertainment:

• Live Swing Bands – capture the spirit of the 1940s.
• Churchill Impersonators – bringing history to life.
• Dancing and Tea Parties – a throwback to street parties of the time.
• War-Era Actors and Re-Enactments – adding an immersive storytelling element.

Find out more about our VE Day Event Theming.

5. British Summer Fete

A British summer fete theme is perfect for outdoor events and corporate fun days if you want to incorporate iconic British theming. Think traditional games, delicious treats and a charming countryside atmosphere.

Creating The Theme:

• Classic Fete Games – Coconut shy, hook-a-duck, and sack races.
• Pimm’s and Strawberries and Cream Stalls – a taste of summer in Britain.
• Live Folk Music and Morris Dancers – enhancing the traditional feel.

Choosing The Entertainment:

• Traditional Funfair Rides – Classic carousels and Ferris wheels.
• Stilt Walkers and Jugglers – Engaging roaming acts.
• Live Acoustic Bands – Perfect for setting a relaxed summer vibe.

Find out more about our Festival themed events.

6. English Football / Football Themed Events

Football is a massive part of British culture, making it a brilliant theme for corporate events, sports celebrations and fan experiences.

Creating The Theme:

• Stadium-Style Decor – Incorporate team banners, football pitch flooring, and goalposts.
• Giant Screens for Live Matches – Make it an immersive experience.
• Team-Themed Table Settings – Representing the biggest British football clubs.

Choosing The Entertainment:

• Football Freestylers and Stunt Performers – Entertain guests with incredible tricks and skills.
• Penalty Shootout Challenges – Engage guests with interactive football games.
• Themed Catering – Serve classic stadium snacks like pies, burgers, and beer.

Find out more about our Football Themed Events.

7. British Seaside Themed Events

Another iconic part of British reputation is our fondness for the British seaside! With the smell of fish and chips floating through the air, the British seaside is a fun and creative way to theme your next event.

By using a range of simple decorations and attractions at your event, you are able to show people exactly what it is like to spend a day by the coasts of the UK.

Creating The Theme:

• Set up traditional beach huts, deck chairs, and bunting.
• Grand Pier signposts
• Ocean colour lighting and draping
• Indoor beaches
• Seaside changing rooms

Choosing The Entertainment and Catering:

• Offer activities like Punch and Judy shows, sandcastle competitions and seaside photo booths.
• Seaside catering such as fish & chips, fried doughnuts and ice cream
• Walkabout sea creatures
• View our nautical themed entertainment

Find out more about our Nautical event theming.

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As you can see above, you could simply go on and on. Here are some other theming ideas:

• Great British Bake Off Theme:
  • Host baking competitions or workshops inspired by the popular TV show.

• British Television:
  • Design your event around iconic British TV shows, incorporating set designs and character lookalikes.

• Beatles Theme:
  • Celebrate the legacy of The Beatles with themed decor and live tribute performances.

• Union Jack Theme:
  • Incorporate the iconic flag into your decor, from table settings to stage backdrops.

• Victorian Theme:
  • Recreate the elegance of the Victorian era with period costumes and decor.
  • Find out more about our Victorian Themed Events.

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British Themed Entertainment

In addition to making your event space look the part, you need to have the entertainment to match. Let’s get into some entertainment ideas perfect for a range of British themed events.

Music and Tributes

Live music can set the tone for your event, essential for creating an engaging and immersive British Themed Event.

• Elton John Tribute Act:
  • A performance celebrating one of Britain’s most iconic musicians.
  • View our Elton John Tribute Act.

• Bagpiper and Drummer Duo:
  • Introduce traditional Scottish sounds to your event.
  • View our Bagpiper and Drummer Duo.

• Bagpipe Rock Cover Band:
  • A unique fusion of classic rock and traditional bagpipes.
  • View our Bagpipe Rock Cover Band.

• Imperial Band:
  • A versatile band offering a range of British music styles.
  • View our Imperial Band.

For more ideas, take a look at our dedicated British Themed Entertainment page.

Walkabout Entertainment

Walkabout performers can engage and interact with guests throughout the event, beyond a static or stage performance.

• Union Jack Theme Walkabout
  • Performers dressed in bold Union Jack-inspired outfits roam the event, interacting with guests and providing fantastic photo opportunities.
  • View our Union Jack Themed Walkabout Act.

• Around the World Walkabout Act
  • A great choice for a multicultural British theme, these performers celebrate Britain’s diverse cultural influences.
  • View our Around the World Themed Walkabout Act.

• Roaming Toy Soldiers
  • A nostalgic nod to classic British toy soldiers, perfect for family-friendly or Christmas-themed British events.
  • View our Roaming Toy Soldiers.

For more ideas, take a look at our dedicated British Themed Entertainment page.

British Icons

Celebrate Britain’s most legendary figures with British icon lookalikes and tribute acts. These performers help immerse guests in the theme while providing fantastic entertainment.

• The Churchill Experience
  • A professional Winston Churchill impersonator delivering famous speeches and interacting with guests.
  • View The Churchill Experience.

• Winston Churchill Impersonator
  • A lifelike portrayal of one of Britain’s greatest leaders, ideal for historical and patriotic events.
  • View our Winston Churchill Impersonator.

For more ideas, take a look at our dedicated British Themed Entertainment page.

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Book a British Themed Event With Julia Charles Event Management

A British themed event is a fantastic way to celebrate the nation’s rich culture, history and traditions.

Whether you’re looking to create a grand royal affair, a lively pub-style party, or a nostalgic trip through the decades, there’s a theme to suit every occasion. With the 80th anniversary of VE Day approaching, now is the perfect time to embrace this patriotic theme for your next event!

If you’re ready to create an unforgettable British-themed event, our team is here to bring your vision to life. From stunning décor and entertainment to immersive experiences, we provide everything you need for a spectacular celebration.

We offer all kinds of other themed events. From Circus to Alice in Wonderland, 1920s to Neon Tokyo. Whatever the event, our team can create the perfect theme for you!

Get in contact with a member of the events team today to find out more.

Related Services:

• British Themed Events
• VE Day and 1940’s Themed Events
• British Themed Entertainment
• Celebrity Lookalikes and Tributes
• James Bond Themed Events
• Event Production
• Event Management

Related Blogs:

• Top Ideas for Hosting Best of British Themed Events
• Why an ‘Around the World’ Theme is Perfect for Gala Dinners
• Retro 1960’s Themed Event At The London BT Tower