First Floor at The Drift

The first floor at The Drift is a different proposition from the busier ground floor below. Where downstairs runs as an open bar and restaurant, the upstairs lounge trades energy for comfort — low-slung armchairs, soft banquette seating, and a more relaxed pace that suits private events wanting atmosphere without volume. It takes 300 standing or 120 seated, with exclusive hire giving you the entire floor.

The Drift First Floor — Character and Layout

Drake & Morgan’s signature design runs through the space: shimmering metal and glass surfaces, quirky collectibles tucked into alcoves, and enough visual detail that guests keep noticing new things as the evening progresses. The fine dining nook — gold wallpaper, intimate lighting, seating for around 14 — sits within the floor as a venue-within-a-venue for smaller private dining. A dedicated mixology table lets groups make their own cocktails as part of the event, turning drinks service into entertainment. The restaurant area with its open kitchen overlooking the space adds theatre to dining events, and a glass staircase connects down to the ground floor with a secluded cabana offering views of Europe’s largest private aquarium — a genuine conversation piece.

Events on The Drift’s First Floor

Corporate drinks receptions are the natural fit given the City of London location, but the space handles more than after-work gatherings. Private dining for up to 120 works for client entertaining, team celebrations, and milestone events where restaurant-quality food matters. Product launches and fashion shows use the visual interest of the interiors as backdrop. Christmas parties land well here — the late licence runs until 1am on Thursdays and Fridays, enough to carry the energy of an evening without the hard stop that catches out venues closing at 11pm.

The Drift First Floor — Catering and Practical Details

Searcys isn’t involved here — The Drift’s in-house kitchen handles all catering, with external options not permitted. The seasonal British menu runs from breakfast through dinner, and the events team builds bespoke packages including canapé receptions, sit-down meals, and drinks packages with cocktail options. There’s a projector, PA system, Wi-Fi, and AV equipment for presentations, giving the space workable functionality for corporate content alongside its social strengths. Lift access is available throughout.

The Drift at Heron Tower — Location

Sitting at the base of the Heron Tower (now Salesforce Tower) on Bishopsgate, The Drift is moments from Liverpool Street station with the Elizabeth Line, Central, Metropolitan, and Hammersmith & City lines all within reach. For City-based corporate clients, the location eliminates the commute question entirely — colleagues and clients already work in the surrounding buildings. The landmark tower itself creates a sense of arrival before guests even step inside.