Business

Dining

Film and Photo

What are the venue hire rates for the George Stephenson room for film and photo shoots?

The venue operates on a minimum weekend hire charge of £6,000 (VAT exempt) for 8 hours between 8:30am-10:00pm, which includes setup, use of a technician if required, and an on-site event manager. For weekday bookings, rates vary by space and duration - smaller rooms like the Council Room are £1,650 (VAT exempt) for 8:30am-5:30pm or £980 for half-day hire.

What are the capacity limits and layout options for corporate meetings in this space?

Based on similar spaces at the venue, the room can accommodate various layouts including boardroom style (up to 30 guests), cabaret style (up to 40 guests), theatre style (up to 60 guests), or hollow square (up to 30 guests). The exact capacity for the George Stephenson room would need to be confirmed as it's not specified in the available information.

What audio-visual equipment is available and what are the costs?

Standard AV equipment includes laptop (£66), lectern (£22), flipchart (£22 each), and 85" screen with soundbar (£165). Full hybrid packages with screen, HD camera, sound and microphones cost £275, while PA systems with up to 2 handheld mics and Bluetooth connectivity cost £198. All AV prices are subject to VAT and include technical support from specialized technicians.

Are there restrictions on bringing external filming equipment or using third-party suppliers?

Third-party AV suppliers are permitted but must schedule a site visit with an OBW technician to discuss setup requirements. They must provide certification for current PLI & PAT testing for any equipment brought on site and complete a risk assessment for the work. External suppliers must utilize their own AV equipment.

What are the standard operating hours and can events extend beyond normal times?

Standard venue hours are 8:30am to 5:30pm for weekday events, with evening events typically running 6:30pm to 10:00pm. Time extensions are available at additional cost of £550 (VAT exempt) per extension period. Weekend hire provides 8-hour access between 8:30am-10:00pm.

Is catering mandatory and what are the options for corporate meetings?

Catering is not mandatory - guests can go off-site for food but cannot bring external food back into the venue. In-house catering is provided by Company of Cooks with day delegate rates from £38.80 + VAT per person, including arrival refreshments, mid-morning breaks, working lunch, and afternoon refreshments. All catering prices are subject to VAT.

What is the booking process and how far in advance can events be scheduled?

The venue takes bookings up to 12 months ahead. The process involves initial enquiry, provisional holds on dates, site visits available for viewing spaces, and then formal contracting. Provisional holds can be placed while finalizing details, and the venue offers flexibility in adjusting booking requirements during the planning process.

Are there any restrictions on event types or activities in this space?

The venue does not host wedding ceremonies (only receptions/dinners) and has declined certain low-budget or very last-minute bookings. There are no outdoor spaces available at the venue. The space is suitable for corporate events, meetings, filming, and photography, with the venue being flexible on event formats within these categories.

What technical facilities are included in the room for filming and photography?

The George Stephenson room is equipped with air conditioning and high-speed Wi-Fi as standard. It's located on the ground floor along the presidential corridor, making it easily accessible for equipment. The venue can provide technical support through specialized AV technicians, and staging blocks are available for £55 (subject to VAT).

What is the cancellation policy and payment terms for bookings?

Specific cancellation policies and payment terms are not detailed in the available information. The venue mentions that they work through a contracting process once clients are ready to proceed, suggesting formal terms and conditions would be provided at that stage. Clients should request these details during the booking process.