Dining

Events

What are the different event spaces available and their capacities?

Holmes Hotel offers several event spaces: The Gallery accommodates up to 37 in cabaret layout or 60 standing, The Billiard room fits up to 14-15 seated (though 15 will be tight), The Conservatory holds 8-10 seated, and The Residence (comprising Billiard, Pantry, Conservatory, Library, Laboratory, and Cellar rooms) can accommodate up to 80 standing. For meetings, boardroom and U-shape layouts accommodate 18 guests comfortably, with space for 2 additional guests if needed though it may feel tight.

What are the pricing structures for different event packages?

Holmes Hotel offers several reception packages: Bronze at £47 plus VAT per person (1 prosecco, 2 drinks, 3 canapés), Silver at £62 plus VAT per person (1 prosecco, 3 drinks, 6 canapés), and Gold at £82 plus VAT per person (1 champagne, 3 drinks, 3 canapés plus 3 bowl foods). For private dining, packages start at £100 plus VAT per person including 3-course dinner, prosecco, wine, and room hire. All packages include staff, room hire, cloakroom, plasma screen, and WiFi.

What are the minimum spend requirements instead of room hire fees?

Holmes Hotel operates on minimum spend rather than charging separate room hire fees. For drinks receptions, minimum spends range from £2,250 plus VAT (reduced from £3,500) for 25 guests to £4,000 plus VAT for larger events. For networking events, they offer £2,700 including VAT fully inclusive of food and drinks with no additional room hire fees.

What additional charges apply beyond the package prices?

A discretionary service charge of 12.5% is added to all final bills. For external alcohol, corkage charges are £30 per bottle. All prices quoted are plus VAT at 20% unless specifically stated as inclusive.

What are the booking requirements and deposit terms?

Holmes Hotel requires a 50% deposit to secure the space and 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 and will decline events they consider unsuitable for their venue. They also turn away enquiries with budgets they deem too low for their offerings.

What entertainment and AV facilities are available?

All event spaces include complimentary use of plasma screens and WiFi. The venue has facilities for live music and DJs, with an in-house music team available for suggestions. DJ services are available for approximately £1,200 for 5 hours as an optional add-on.

What are the typical event timings and setup arrangements?

Events typically run during standard hours with examples showing 18:00-21:00 for networking events, 19:00-22:00 for private dining, and 15:00-20:00 for afternoon celebrations. The venue can accommodate events until late (midnight or beyond) depending on the booking, and they handle all setup arrangements as part of their service.