Dining

Events

Weddings

What are the exact room hire costs and capacity limits for different event types?

Room hire varies by space and timing: Rooms 3&4 (combined) costs £1,960 ex VAT for 8am-4pm with 62 theatre capacity, Hall costs £2,077.20 ex VAT for 6pm-11pm with 276 dining capacity (increased from 240), Parliament Chamber costs £2,094 ex VAT for Christmas lunch events with capacity for receptions up to 400 guests. The Hall is available Monday-Friday from 6pm onwards and weekends during day and evening.

What catering packages are available and what are the per-person costs?

Catering options include: Dinner packages from £142 ex VAT per person (includes prosecco, 3-course menu, half bottle wine, water, coffee), Christmas lunch from £85 ex VAT per person, arrival tea/coffee/pastries from £8.50 ex VAT per person, classic sandwich lunch from £19.30 ex VAT per person, and house wine from £5 ex VAT per person. All prices exclude VAT.

What are the venue's operating hours and seasonal closures?

The venue closes during August summer holidays and reopens from 8th September for events. The Hall is available Monday-Friday from 6pm onwards and weekends during both day and evening. Events typically run with access from 8am for daytime events and 6pm for evening events.

What AV equipment is included and what are additional costs?

Basic AV includes PA system with 1 microphone, screen and video conferencing facilities in meeting rooms like Rooms 3&4. The Lecture Theatre provides fully accessible seating for up to 120 with adjustable lighting, air conditioning and free wifi. Additional AV requirements would need to be quoted separately.

What is the booking process and how far in advance should events be confirmed?

The venue operates on a provisional hold system where they contact the client holding first option before placing your event on second option hold. For events not far away, confirmation is required before specific deadlines (example given was confirming before 30 April for a May event). Site visits can be arranged over a couple of weeks notice.

Are there any special pricing offers or package deals available?

The venue offers a room hire price freeze for 2026 events, allowing you to book 2026 events at current 2025 rates. This offer ends 31 August 2025 with terms and conditions applying. They also offer various package combinations like DDR packages at £94 per person including room hire and full day catering.

What spaces are suitable for weddings and what are the dry hire costs?

The venue offers dry hire for weddings at £15,000 ex VAT, which includes use of all internal event spaces with your own caterers. The Hall along with the rest of the first floor is particularly suitable for weddings and events requiring additional space, with dining capacity for up to 276 guests.

What are the marquee options and seasonal availability?

The marquee is available mid-June to mid-July with capacity for up to 600 guests. The 2026 Marquee Season runs from 16 June – 9 July 2026, and popular dates book quickly. The marquee is only in place for four weeks annually and is set within three acres of beautifully maintained grounds.

What filming and photography restrictions apply?

Filming is available usually weekends only, but exceptions can be made depending on requirements. Specific filming rates and availability information is available on their website, and a filming request form must be completed. Photography and filming may take place during venue showcase events for marketing purposes.

What minimum catering spends and additional fees should be budgeted?

Minimum catering spend of £2,640 ex VAT applies to certain bookings. All prices quoted are exclusive of VAT (20% additional). Room hire includes basic setup but additional services, entertainment, and enhanced catering packages incur separate charges that vary by requirements and guest numbers.