Hire Space
Library

One Birdcage Walk

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Elegant library with wooden architecture, ideal for workshops and literary events.
  • From £3300
  • 200 Reception
  • Westminster Station
  • From £3300
  • 200 Reception
  • Westminster Station
Historic Elizabethan-style Library with oak panelling and St James's Park views in the heart of Westminster.
Aidan De Forest-Brown
Aidan De Forest-Brown

Venue Expert @ Hire Space

  • High-speed Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Evening hire availability
  • Westminster location near iconic landmarks
  • Elizabethan style oak-clad interior
  • Stunning views over St James's Park
  • Air conditioning ensures comfort

The grand Elizabethan style Library is clad in warm oak and has stunning views over St James's Park, making it an ideal backdrop for film and photo shoots. This elegant space, located within One Birdcage Walk, home of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, offers a unique blend of period charm and modern amenities. With air conditioning and high-speed Wi-Fi, the Library provides a comfortable environment for creative professionals. Evening hire is available, allowing you to capture the enchanting ambiance of this historic venue. Situated in the heart of Westminster, just moments from iconic landmarks, the Library is perfect for those seeking a distinctive setting for their visual projects.

Frequently asked questions

The Library hire is £3,500 (VAT exempt) for Monday-Friday 6:30pm to 10pm, or £6,000 (VAT exempt) for Saturday-Sunday. Time extensions beyond 10pm are available at an additional £550 (VAT exempt). Weekend hire includes 8-hour access between 8:30am-10pm with setup, technician if required, and on-site event manager.

The Library can accommodate up to 120 guests for seated dinner, though with round tables set up, not all guests can see screens/presentations due to the U-shaped layout. The space is clad in warm oak with stunning views over St James's Park, making it ideal for film and photography work.

The venue takes bookings up to 12 months ahead. Weekend availability may be limited as the venue is not usually open on weekends, requiring minimum hire charges. Some dates may be provisionally held by other clients, so early booking is recommended.

The Library includes air conditioning and high-speed Wi-Fi. Additional AV equipment is available including PA system with up to 2 handheld mics and bluetooth connectivity (£198), LED screen (£165), and staging blocks (£55). All AV prices are subject to VAT and include technical support.

External AV suppliers must schedule a site visit with an OBW technician to discuss setup requirements. They need to provide certification for current PLI & PAT testing for equipment and complete a risk assessment. Food cannot be brought back inside the venue if guests go off-site.

Standard hire includes access from 6:30pm-10pm on weekdays. Weekend hire provides 8-hour access between 8:30am-10pm. Setup time is included in weekend packages, and an on-site event manager is provided for weekend events.

All catering is provided by approved suppliers including Company of Cooks, Blue Strawberry, and Food by Dish who provide bespoke quotes. Guests can go off-site for food but cannot bring it back inside the venue. Catering is not mandatory but must use approved suppliers if required.

The Library can be combined with the Marble Hall and Gallery for £4,950 (VAT exempt) Monday-Friday 6:30pm-10pm. The Marble Hall, built in Venetian palace style with antique Sienna pilasters and onyx panels, can accommodate up to 200 for standing receptions and provides additional filming/photography backdrops.

Provisional holds can be placed on dates while finalizing details. The venue requires confirmation to begin contracting, and clients can book individual rooms or multiple spaces. Specific payment terms and deposit requirements are discussed during the booking process.

The venue has indicated they decline very last-minute and low-budget enquiries. Weekend hire has a minimum charge of £6,000 (VAT exempt). The venue appears to have budget thresholds, with some enquiries being declined if they don't meet minimum spending requirements.

More about One Birdcage Walk

One Birdcage Walk, home of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, offers meeting and event spaces in the heart of Westminster.

Overlooking St James's Park and just minutes away from HM Treasury, the Houses of Parliament and Horse Guards Parade; our flexible venue can host a range of events from lectures, conferences, meetings, away days, seminars and training courses to drinks receptions and fine dining events.