Business

Dining

Events

What are the different dining spaces available and their capacities?

Holmes Hotel offers several dining spaces: The Billiard room accommodates up to 14-15 guests (though 15 will be tight), The Conservatory seats 8-10 guests maximum, and The Gallery can accommodate up to 37 in cabaret layout. For larger events, The Residence (comprising Billiard, Pantry, Conservatory, Library, Laboratory, and Cellar rooms) can host up to 80 people for standing receptions.

What are the pricing options for private dining packages?

The private dining package costs £100 plus VAT per person and includes simple decoration, 1 glass of prosecco on arrival, 3-course dinner (£65 set menu), half bottle of mineral water, half bottle of house wine, room hire, and cloakroom. A discretionary service charge of 12.5% is added to the final bill.

What are the minimum spend requirements for dining events?

Minimum spend varies by space and event size. For drinks receptions, The Gallery has a minimum spend of £2,250 plus VAT (reduced from £3,500), while larger events may have minimum spends of £2,700 plus VAT or £4,000 plus VAT depending on the space and requirements.

What seating arrangements are available for dining events?

The venue offers multiple seating layouts including boardroom style (accommodates 18 guests comfortably, can squeeze 20), U-shape layout (up to 20 guests), cabaret style with round tables, and theatre style for up to 60 guests. For intimate dinners, one long table can accommodate up to 20 guests in boardroom layout.

What are the reception package options and pricing?

Three reception packages are available: Bronze (£47 plus VAT per person) includes 1 prosecco, 2 drinks, 3 canapés; Silver (£62 plus VAT per person) includes 1 prosecco, 3 drinks, 6 canapés; Gold (£82 plus VAT per person) includes 1 champagne, 3 drinks, 3 canapés plus 3 bowl foods. All packages include room hire, staff, cloakroom, plasma screen, and WiFi.

What are the booking and payment requirements?

A 50% deposit is required to secure the space, with final details needed 10 days before the event. The venue operates on a 'Joint First Option' hold system, and spaces are held for a limited time pending confirmation.

What are the corkage charges and outside catering policies?

Corkage charges are £30 per bottle for bringing your own wine. The venue has its own catering and bar services, with cash bar options available where guests pay for their own drinks based on consumption.

What dining menu options are available?

The venue offers set 3-course dinner menus (£65 value included in dining packages), canapé selections, and bowl food options. Only 3 bowl food options are available on the menu, but ingredients can be adjusted to accommodate specific dietary requirements.

What are the typical event timings for dining events?

Private dining events typically run from 19:00-22:00 (3 hours), while drinks receptions usually operate from 18:00-21:00. The venue can accommodate events until late evening, with some events running until 23:00 or venue closing time.

What restrictions apply to dining events?

The venue does not host 18th birthday parties. Events are subject to capacity limits per room, and some layouts may feel tight when at maximum capacity. The venue requires advance notice for dietary requirements and has limited bowl food menu options.