Frequently Asked Questions
What are the room hire costs and minimum spend requirements for dining events?
The Common Room costs £2,750 + VAT for evening hire (18:30-23:00) with a £5,000 + VAT minimum spend on food and drinks. For full day hire (9:00-17:00), the cost is £3,600 + VAT with a £3,000 + VAT minimum spend. Weekend events require a minimum spend of £10,000 + VAT.
What are the capacity limits for different dining setups?
The Common Room accommodates up to 180 guests seated on round tables with stage setup, or up to 96 guests cabaret style with catering served in the room. For larger events, capacity increases to 144 guests cabaret style or 244 theatre style when catering is served in adjacent spaces.
What catering options and pricing are available?
In-house catering is provided exclusively by Graysons. Two-course dinners cost £57 + VAT per person, while three-course formal dining menus with tea, coffee and petit fours are available. Christmas packages start at £172 + VAT per person including prosecco, wine, and entertainment.
What AV equipment is included and what are the additional costs?
Standard AV package costs £400 + VAT and includes stage, screen/projector, two repeater screens, lectern with lectern mic, and handheld mic. An AV technician is provided to assist with setup for larger events.
What time slots are available for private dining events?
Evening events typically run 18:30-23:00 or 18:00-23:00. Full day hire is available 9:00-17:00, and afternoon slots 13:00-17:00 are offered. Early access for organisers is usually provided one hour before the event start time.
Are there restrictions on dates or days of the week?
Weekend events have higher minimum spend requirements (£10,000 + VAT) as the building is usually closed. Weekday events are more flexible with lower minimum spends. Some dates may be unavailable due to Law Society activities or prior bookings.
What entertainment and additional services can be arranged?
DJ and dance floor services are available, along with uplighters for ambience. The venue works with external suppliers for additional entertainment, photo booths (from £950 + VAT), and decorations. Christmas events include themed decorations and table centres.
What drinks packages and bar arrangements are offered?
Packages include prosecco on arrival, half bottles of wine per person with meals, and unlimited house wine, beer and soft drinks for specified periods (typically 2-2.5 hours). Pay bars are available for additional drinks, and pre-paid bar tabs can be arranged.
What is included in the venue hire fee?
Venue hire includes dedicated team on the day, security, complimentary Wi-Fi, cloakroom facilities, digital signage, personalised welcome signs, directional signage, standard linen, tableware and glassware. Registration tables can be provided in the main foyer.
Is the venue licensed for weddings and what are the requirements?
Yes, the Common Room has a wedding licence. Weekend wedding venue hire is £4,000 + VAT with a £6,000 + VAT minimum catering spend. The room features abundant natural light, high vaulted ceilings, and can accommodate wedding ceremonies and receptions.
Event Types
Great for: The Reading Room combines Grade II* listed Georgian grandeur with a dramatic gilded gallery and leather-bound books, creating an unmatched literary atmosphere for sophisticated dining events.
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