Business

Dining

Events

What are the different event spaces available and their capacities?

Holmes Hotel offers multiple spaces within The Residence: The Billiard room accommodates up to 14-15 guests (though 15 will be tight), The Conservatory seats 8-10 guests maximum, The Gallery holds up to 37 in cabaret layout or 60 standing, and The Residence area (including Pantry, Conservatory, Billiard, Library, Laboratory, and Cellar) can accommodate up to 80 people for standing receptions. Boardroom and U-shape layouts accommodate 18 guests comfortably, with possibility to add 2 more though it may feel tight.

What are the pricing structures for different event packages?

Reception packages range from Bronze at £47 plus VAT per person (1 prosecco, 2 drinks, 3 canapés) to Gold at £82 plus VAT per person (1 champagne, 3 drinks, 3 canapés, 3 bowl foods). Private dining packages start at £100 plus VAT per person including 3-course dinner, prosecco arrival, half bottle wine and water, plus room hire. Minimum spends vary by space: £2,250 plus VAT for The Gallery (reduced from £3,500), £2,700 including VAT for some events, and £4,000 plus VAT for larger Residence bookings.

What additional charges apply beyond the base package prices?

A discretionary service charge of 12.5% is added to all final bills. Corkage charges are £30 per bottle if you bring your own wine. All prices quoted are plus VAT at 20% unless specifically stated as inclusive.

What are the booking requirements and deposit terms?

A 50% deposit is required to secure the space. Final event details must be provided 10 days before the event. Spaces are typically held on 'Joint First Option' status, meaning other clients may also be considering the same date and space.

What types of events does Holmes Hotel not accommodate?

Holmes Hotel does not host 18th birthday parties. They also decline events that don't meet their budget requirements or are deemed unsuitable for the venue's style and clientele.

What catering options are available and can dietary requirements be accommodated?

The venue offers canapés, bowl food, and 3-course set menus. They can accommodate dietary requirements and adjust ingredients in their bowl food options. Tea and coffee service is included in dinner packages, and they work with external suppliers for specialized catering needs.

What AV equipment and entertainment options are included?

Complimentary plasma screens and WiFi are included in all packages. The venue can accommodate live music and DJs, with in-house music team available for suggestions. They have facilities for presentations and can provide microphones for speakers.

What are the typical event timings and setup arrangements?

Events typically run during standard venue hours with common timings being 18:00-21:00 for dinners, 19:00-22:00 for private dining, and 15:00-20:00 for afternoon receptions. The venue handles all setup arrangements and provides simple, stylish decoration as part of their packages.

Can spaces be combined and what flexibility exists for layouts?

Multiple spaces can be combined - The Gallery can be used with The Residence areas for larger events. Layout options include cabaret, boardroom, U-shape, theatre style up to 60 people, and standing reception formats. Some layouts have capacity limitations, such as boardroom accommodating maximum 20 guests with one table.

What is included in the room hire and what additional services are available?

Room hire includes staff, cloakroom facilities, basic decoration, and use of AV equipment. Additional services available include florist arrangements, DJ services (£1,200 for 5 hours), and assistance with entertainment planning. The venue works with external suppliers for specialized requirements.