Business

Dining

Events

What are the venue hire rates and what's included in the base price?

Venue hire rates start from £4,825 VAT exempt for weekday hire or £7,175 VAT exempt for weekend hire, covering 2pm until midnight with supplier access from 12pm. The venue comprises two former private houses - for smaller groups, 10 Carlton House Terrace includes Council Room, Barnard Room and Radhakrishnan Room, while 11 Carlton House Terrace includes Gallery, Music Room and Beatrice Webb Room for up to 100 seated guests maximum.

What are the dining capacity limits for different room configurations?

Maximum seated capacity for ceremony and dinner is 100 guests in the Beatrice Webb Room. The Music Room alone cannot accommodate dinner and drinks for 40-50 people - you must book an additional room. Individual rooms like Council Room can seat up to 70 for dinner, while the Reading Room holds up to 70 for standing reception only.

What are the mandatory catering costs and minimum spends?

All catering is provided exclusively by Searcys with a minimum evening spend of £1,000 + VAT. Three-course dinner costs £66.50 + VAT per person, with wine packages at £17-£27 + VAT per person. Welcome drinks start at £8 + VAT per person for prosecco, and canapes are £17.50-£30 + VAT per person depending on quantity.

Are there seasonal discounts or special Christmas packages available?

A £1,000 discount on venue hire applies to weddings in October or November 2025. Christmas packages include the Festive Dinner & DJ package at £145 + VAT per person (minimum 55 guests) which includes sparkling wine, 3-course dinner, wine, entertainment and festive decorations including a 12-foot Christmas tree in the lobby.

What are the supplier restrictions and approval requirements?

The venue maintains detailed lists of Approved Suppliers for Audio Visual, Production and Floristry, plus Recommended suppliers. Use of any third-party suppliers outside these lists must be agreed in writing by the venue before booking. This applies to all external vendors including DJs, photographers, and decorators.

What additional fees apply for extended hours or special services?

Additional hours after 10pm cost £500 VAT exempt per hour. Catering service before 8am incurs a £300 + VAT per hour fee. Late catering fees of £300 + VAT per hour apply after 11pm. Manned cloakroom is available at additional cost (price on request), while unmanned cloakroom with coat rails is complimentary.

What is the booking process and payment schedule?

To proceed with booking, you must provide full signatory details, organization information, contact details and address. A signed hire agreement is required, followed by a 50% deposit invoice. Payment must reference the specific invoice number provided - do not make payments before receiving the official invoice.

Can the venue accommodate dietary restrictions and specialized cuisine?

Searcys can provide halal and South Asian inspired catering, though they note they are not specialized in South Asian cuisine. The venue offers vegetarian/vegan options as standard, and healthy lifestyle menu options are available. All dietary requirements must be discussed with Searcys during menu planning.

What are the access times and setup arrangements?

Standard access for organizers begins 15 minutes before hire period (e.g., 5:15pm for 6pm events). Supplier setup access is typically from 12pm for events starting at 2pm. Earlier access from 8am is available for some bookings, and setup as early as 7:30am may be possible with advance arrangement.

Are there restrictions on event types or guest behavior policies?

The venue operates on a first-to-confirm basis during busy periods like December. Some enquiries are declined if budgets are deemed too low or if the venue is fully booked. The venue maintains professional standards appropriate for its status as home of The British Academy and its Grade 1 listed Georgian townhouse setting.