Arts

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Events

What is the minimum number of attendees required for events at The Mermaid London?

The venue has a minimum requirement of 100 attendees for events. If your event has fewer than 100 people, they will not be able to accommodate your booking as this falls below their minimum numbers policy.

What are the starting prices for events and what's included in the Day Delegate Rate?

The Day Delegate Rate starts from £98 per person (excluding VAT) for events running 08:00-17:30. This includes venue hire, arrival refreshments, mid-morning refreshments, two-course hot fork buffet lunch, afternoon refreshments, basic AV equipment (projector, screen, lectern, microphone), staffing, and filtered water throughout the day.

Which spaces are available and what are their capacities?

The main spaces include the Auditorium (600 capacity, minimum 300 for hire), Newgate Suite (can be divided into 4 breakout spaces, minimum 120 for DDR), Upper River Room and Lower River Room (both with Thames views), and Queenhithe Room. Two complimentary green rooms (Castle Baynard and Workshop) are available with bookings.

What are the room hire costs for individual spaces?

Individual room hire costs vary by space and duration. For example, the DDR space (likely Newgate Suite) starts at £9,800 + VAT for room hire only, excluding staffing, early access, and catering. Additional spaces like Upper River Room cost around £2,500-£3,500 + VAT for day hire (08:00-17:30).

What additional costs should I budget for beyond the basic room hire?

Beyond room hire, expect costs for staffing (event manager and stewards), early access if needed before 08:00, AV packages (around £1,100-£1,300 + VAT), security if required, and enhanced catering options. Christmas party packages start from £155 + VAT per person, and drinks receptions cost around £25-30 + VAT per person for 2-3 hours.

How far in advance do I need to book and what are the payment terms?

For events with short lead times (such as within 2 weeks), the venue requires booking confirmation and 100% payment by the end of the week. They typically hold enquiries for a limited time and will automatically release dates if no response is received by their specified deadline.

What AV equipment is included and what additional options are available?

Basic AV includes LCD projector, screen, flipchart, lectern, and microphone. Enhanced packages are available through their partner supplier Rockit, including multiple screens, relay screens, PA systems, handheld radio mics, and AV technician support. Costs range from £1,100-£2,400 + VAT depending on requirements.

Can I arrange a site visit and how does the booking process work?

Yes, site visits can be arranged at your convenience to view the spaces in person. The booking process involves submitting an enquiry with event details (start/finish times, attendee numbers, catering requirements, number of spaces needed, and budget), after which they provide a detailed proposal with pricing and space recommendations.

What catering options are available and are there minimum spends?

Catering ranges from basic DDR packages to enhanced options including bowl food (£40 + VAT per person for 5 items), canapes (£13 + VAT per person for 4 items), and drinks packages. Some spaces have minimum catering requirements of 100 people, and cash bars typically have minimum spends around £2,000.

What are the venue's operating hours and early access policies?

Standard operating hours appear to be 08:00-17:30 for day events, with evening events extending to midnight or later. Early access from 06:00 or 07:00 is available for additional cost (around £2,000 + VAT). Events can be extended into early hours for parties with additional charges.