Business

Events

What are the room hire rates for different spaces and what's included in the base price?

Room hire varies by space: Carlton Room £1,500+VAT, Library Room £1,800+VAT, Terrace Room £1,400-£2,400+VAT, and Elizabeth Room from £4,800+VAT for exclusive first floor use. All rates include basic AV (projector/screen, sound system, microphones, Wi-Fi), AV team support on arrival, and natural daylight in most spaces. Weekend rates are significantly higher at £3,500+VAT per day.

What are the capacity limits for different room layouts and which spaces work for larger events?

Carlton Room: 105 theatre/48 cabaret, Library Room: 80 theatre/40 cabaret/32 boardroom, Terrace Room: 150 reception/75 theatre/70 banquet, Elizabeth Room: 210 theatre/150 banquet/250 reception. For events over 100 people, you'll need the Terrace Room or Elizabeth Room with exclusive floor hire.

What are the mandatory catering minimums and can I bring external food?

Catering minimums vary by space: Carlton Room 55 people, Library Room 15 people, Terrace Room 55-70 people depending on package. External catering is not permitted - all food must be supplied by in-house caterer Vacherin. You must select at least one catering package to meet the minimum spend requirements.

What are the standard access times and how much does extended access cost?

Standard access is typically 08:00-17:00 for day events or 18:00-23:30 for evening events. Extended access from 7am or until 11pm costs £500+VAT per hour, subject to availability. Setup and breakdown time must be included within your hired hours unless you pay for additional access.

What AV equipment is included and what are the costs for additional technical support?

Basic AV is included: projector/screen or LED screens, sound system, 2-4 microphones, Wi-Fi, and AV support on arrival. Additional costs: external AV fee £500+VAT, extra microphones £45+VAT each, AV technician £400+VAT for 4 hours or £80+VAT per additional hour, flipcharts £25+VAT, repetiteur screens £160+VAT each.

How does the booking process work and how long will spaces be held?

Spaces are typically held on first option for 5 working days while you decide. The venue actively follows up on proposals and will release bookings if no response is received. They often have multiple clients interested in the same dates, so quick decision-making is essential to secure your preferred space.

What are the different catering package options and pricing?

Day packages range from Classic Working £31.50+VAT to Deluxe £50.95+VAT per person, including arrival refreshments, breaks, and lunch. Evening packages: 1-hour drinks with nibbles £24.50+VAT, with 6 canapés £43.50+VAT, Christmas packages £126-£139+VAT including room hire, food, and 3-hour unlimited drinks. Tea/coffee breaks start from £4.45+VAT per person.

Which spaces offer private outdoor access and what's included?

Only the Terrace Room on the 6th floor provides access to outdoor terraces with London skyline views. This space gives exclusive use of the entire floor with 2 lifts, facilities, and is completely self-contained. The terraces include outdoor furniture and are part of the room hire package.

Are there any spaces that guarantee complete privacy during events?

Yes, the Library area functions as a designated event space where no one can walk through during your event, despite being on the ground floor. The Terrace Room offers complete privacy with exclusive 6th floor access, and other rooms can be hired with exclusive floor use for guaranteed privacy.

What discounts are available and when do higher weekend rates apply?

The Royal College of Pathologists offers 20% discounts on some bookings. Weekend room hire rates jump to £3,500+VAT per day compared to standard weekday rates. Some venues offer reduced rates on certain days - always ask about available discounts when booking.