Business

Dining

Events

What are the minimum venue hire costs and catering requirements for the Dining space?

There is a minimum venue hire of £8,000 ex VAT for weekend bookings. Catering has a minimum spend requirement, with examples showing £4,150 ex VAT for smaller events and higher minimums for larger groups. The minimum catering spend per person is £41.50, with some events requiring a minimum of 100-280 guests depending on the package.

What spaces are typically combined with the Dining area for events?

The Dining space is often paired with other rooms for comprehensive events. Common combinations include the Harvey Goodwin Suite with the Robert Runcie Room (£4,550 + VAT together), or larger packages combining the Assembly Hall, Hoare Memorial Hall, and Bishops Partridge Hall for events requiring multiple spaces.

What AV equipment and technical support is available for dining events?

Standard AV packages start from £2,330 + VAT and include large screens, LCD projectors, sound systems, microphones, lighting, and an audio visual engineer. The Westminster Room specifically features a 64" plasma screen. More comprehensive packages for larger spaces include 4K laser projectors, multiple microphone options, and dedicated technical staff.

How far in advance do I need to book and what is the booking process?

The venue can be fully booked months in advance, with examples showing unavailability for dates like September 23rd, October 21st, and June 26th in 2025. When dates are unavailable, the venue offers alternative dates or will help find alternative venues. It's recommended to book well in advance and have flexible dates.

What are the typical operating hours and setup requirements?

Events typically run from 08:30-17:00 for day conferences, with evening events extending to 18:00-22:30. Setup access can be arranged the evening prior (18:30-21:30) for an additional £11,940 ex VAT, with venues needing to be cleared by 22:00. Full day hire options are available for events requiring extended access.

What catering options and pricing are available for dining events?

Day Delegate Rates (DDR) range from £52-78 ex VAT per person, including various meal options like hot and cold breakfast buffets, networking lunches, and refreshment stations. Traditional afternoon tea, bowl food, and drinks receptions are available from £29.50 ex VAT per person. All catering is provided by Searcys using fresh, seasonal, and sustainable ingredients.

Are there any restrictions on event types or special requirements?

The venue accommodates various event types including conferences, award ceremonies, Christmas parties, and even boxing events. Filming enquiries are handled by a separate specialist team member. The venue is fully accessible and has achieved carbon-neutral status. Some events may require security arrangements, though specific costs aren't detailed in the available information.

What capacity limits apply to different room configurations?

Capacity varies significantly by space and setup style. The Assembly Hall can accommodate up to 350 theatre style or 250 standing for drinks receptions. Smaller spaces like the Harvey Goodwin Suite can handle 180 theatre style or 100-150 for various configurations. The Westminster Room is suitable for private dinners, breakfast meetings, and working lunches, though specific capacity numbers aren't provided.

What additional costs should I budget for beyond the base venue hire?

Beyond venue hire, expect AV packages starting from £1,830-4,794 + VAT depending on requirements, mandatory catering minimums, and potential setup fees for evening-before access. VAT at 20% applies to all costs. Weekend bookings may incur additional charges, and some AV packages include extra fees of £500 for weekend use.

How does the venue handle budget constraints and alternative options?

When proposals exceed client budgets (as seen with a £5,000-6,000 budget being insufficient), the venue may suggest alternative configurations or dates. They offer flexibility in space combinations and can recommend keeping everything in one room to reduce costs. The sales team works with clients to find solutions within their budget parameters.