History

Heritage

People queuing outside the Mermaid Theatre

Opening night of the Mermaid at Puddle Dock, 1959

Originally named The Mermaid Theatre, this building was conceived in the 1950’s by the late Sir Bernard Miles. He funded the building by persuading the City of London to donate the site and asking the people of London to give him the money to buy the bricks. Sir Bernard had the foresight to design and build more than just a theatre, and it is thanks to him that the Mermaid Conference and Events Centre now boasts a wider range of rooms than just about any other City venue.

Sir Bernard Miles knocking down a wall with a pick-axe

Sir Bernard Miles begins work on the reconstruction of the Mermaid in 1979

Following a major refurbishment in October 2004, The Mermaid now offers its guests an even more impressive and diverse experience. The first class views and hospitality remain the same, but our upgraded facilities have earned us a deserved reputation as one of London's most individual and exciting conference and event venues.