Business

Dining

What are the capacity limits for dining events in the Woburn Suite spaces?

The Woburn Suite can accommodate dining events with the individual Woburn Room seating 26 people and the Montague Room seating 22 people. The combined Woburn Suite (G22/26) can be configured for larger dining events, though specific capacity depends on your chosen layout and requirements.

What are the hire costs for dining events and what's included?

Room hire rates vary by space and duration - for example, the Woburn Suite costs £1,400 for a 12pm-5pm hire. This includes venue hire, standard AV package (laptop, projector, screen, internet access, 3 microphones), furniture setup, free Wi-Fi, venue utilities, and dedicated event management. VAT is included in venue hire costs.

What catering options are available and what do they cost?

Catering is provided by Gather and Gather (3-star Sustainable Restaurant Association rated) with options including tea/coffee/biscuits at £4.75+VAT per person, working lunch at £15.50+VAT per person, sharing platters from £19.95+VAT per person, and hot/cold buffet at £23.95+VAT per person. A 1-hour Senate drinks package costs £15.95 per person.

Can I bring external caterers for my dining event?

The venue works in partnership with Gather and Gather for catering services. External catering arrangements are not mentioned in available information, so you would need to contact the venue directly to discuss any external catering requirements and whether this is permitted.

What are the standard operating hours and any restrictions?

Standard venue hire typically runs from 08:00-18:00, though some quotes show availability from 12pm-5pm. The venue cannot accommodate requests starting before 06:00. Additional charges apply for catering service outside standard hours, including weekends.

What AV equipment is included and what additional options are available?

Standard AV includes laptop/PC, data projector, screen, internet access, and 3 microphones with PA system and AV technician assistance during setup. For additional AV requirements beyond the standard package, you must contact ConferenceCast/Torpedo, the approved UoL AV provider.

What is the booking process and what forms are required?

You must complete attached events application and due diligence forms for review and approval before booking confirmation. These forms are required to handover to a dedicated event manager and allow for more accurate quoting. The venue can hold dates provisionally while forms are processed.

Are there any layout restrictions for dining events?

The dining spaces are described as a 'blank canvas' that can be configured into eight different layouts including reception style, U-shape, or dining arrangements depending on your needs. The rooms have natural light and built-in AV systems to support various dining event formats.

What additional services and facilities are available?

The venue provides dedicated event and hospitality managers, venue staffing, furniture and setup, free Wi-Fi, cloakroom facilities, and venue utilities. The spaces feature natural light, built-in PA systems, and LCD projectors as standard amenities.

How far in advance should I book and what are current availability constraints?

The venue experiences high demand with limited availability, particularly in June 2025 where no availability exists. Alternative dates mentioned include Tuesday 5th May 2026, Monday 11th May 2025, and Tuesday 12th May 2025, suggesting booking well in advance is essential for preferred dates.