Business

Dining

Film and Photo

What are the exact venue hire costs for dining events in different spaces?

The Council Room costs £1,650 (VAT exempt) for full day hire (8:30am-5:30pm) or £980 for half day, accommodating up to 48 guests for dinner with space for reception inside. For 50+ guests, you'll need the Library at £3,500 (VAT exempt) or Marble Hall & Gallery at £3,000 (VAT exempt). Weekend hire requires a minimum £6,000 (VAT exempt) for 8-hour access.

What are the exact capacity limits for seated dining in each space?

The Council Room accommodates up to 48 guests on round tables or 30 guests on a long table for dinner. If you fit 48 people for dinner, there's no space for drinks or dancing as the space will be full of tables. The Library can host up to 120 guests for seated dinner, while larger events require the Lecture Theatre with Marble Hall for catering.

What are the mandatory catering requirements and costs?

All catering must be provided by approved suppliers including Company of Cooks, Blue Strawberry, and Food by Dish. Guests cannot bring outside food back into the venue if they go off-site. All catering prices are subject to VAT, and some menu options have minimum order numbers clearly flagged on menus.

What are the standard operating hours and extension costs?

Standard evening hire runs from 6:30pm until 10pm. Time extensions beyond 10pm cost an additional £550 (VAT exempt). Weekend events operate between 8:30am-10pm with 8-hour minimum hire. The venue is not usually open on weekends, requiring special arrangements.

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

AV options include laptop (£66), lectern (£22), flipchart (£22 each), PA system with up to 2 handheld mics/bluetooth (£198), LED screen (£165), and staging block (£55). All AV prices are subject to VAT and include technical support from specialized AV technicians on the day.

Can decorations be set up prior to dining events?

Yes, decorations can be done in the hall prior to the event. The venue includes setup of your chosen space(s) and an on-site event manager for the day. Time extensions are available at additional cost if you need extra setup time beyond standard hire hours.

What spaces are included when booking for larger dining events?

When booking the Library for dining, you can combine it with the Marble Hall & Gallery for £4,950 (VAT exempt) from 6:30pm-10pm, allowing separate spaces for reception and dinner. The Lecture Theatre hire automatically includes use of the Marble Hall and adjoining Gallery for catering breaks and receptions.

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

The venue currently takes bookings up to 12 months ahead. The process involves placing a provisional hold on your preferred space, followed by contracting when you're ready to confirm. You can book individual rooms or multiple spaces depending on your requirements.

Are there restrictions on event types or timing for dining events?

The venue can host dining events and receptions but cannot host wedding ceremonies. Weekend events require minimum hire charges due to the venue not usually being open. Very last-minute bookings and low-budget events may be declined based on venue availability and minimum spend requirements.

What additional services are available for dining events?

A cloakroom is available next to the Marble Hall & Gallery, offered as either unmanned/self-service or fully staffed service. The venue provides an on-site event manager for the day and technical support when AV equipment is hired. Third-party suppliers require site visits and certification.