Business

Events

Film and Photo

What is the venue hire fee and minimum spend for business and private events at ArcelorMittal Orbit?

For exclusive use of the Upper Observation Deck, the hire fee ranges from £1,800 + VAT to £2,250 + VAT depending on the event type and timing. In addition, there is a compulsory minimum bar or F&B spend which ranges from £2,000 + VAT (weddings) to £3,500 + VAT (private parties and ticketed events). These minimum spends can cover food, drinks packages, and bar sales, depending on your agreement.

What are the capacity limits for events in the ArcelorMittal Orbit Business space?

The maximum capacities are: 170 guests for a standing reception with no furniture, 150 for a standing party with space for a DJ and dance floor, 100 for a dinner dance, 60 in conference cabaret layout, and 100 in theatre layout. The venue cannot accommodate events exceeding these caps, and any requests above these numbers are declined.

What are the required additional costs and mandatory services?

Security is mandatory at all events and charged at £30 + VAT per staff member per hour. The number of security staff required depends on your event, with a minimum of 2 for wedding/private events and at least 4 for large or ticketed events. The duration for security must cover the entire event period, and their role is to protect the venue, not to manage guests.

What are the timing restrictions and available event slots?

Event timings are fixed for each booking. Example slots include 4:00pm–11:00pm or 5:00pm–midnight for evening events. Earlier access or extension beyond these times is not guaranteed and would need to be specified in advance as part of your hire agreement.

Can I bring in external caterers or provide my own food and drink?

External catering is not permitted. All food must be provided by the venue's in-house caterer, Peppermint Events. There are no kitchen facilities on site for cooking or reheating, and food from domestic kitchens is not allowed. The venue offers bowl food, canapés, buffet options, and tailored menus including halal, vegan, and vegetarian options upon request.

Is it possible to hire a DJ or use a band at the venue?

You may hire the venue's DJ for £90 + VAT per hour or supply your own DJ or band. If using your own DJ or live act, public liability insurance up to £10 million, risk assessments, and a PAT testing certificate for all equipment are required.

What is the booking process and payment timeline?

To secure a booking, written confirmation by email is required. A hire agreement/contract will be issued for signing, after which an invoice for full pre-payment will be sent (from Peppermint Events). For certain event types (e.g., DJ/ticketed events), references from prior venues, a risk assessment and an approval meeting with the general manager are also mandatory.

Are there special processes or restrictions for ticketed or DJ-led promotional events?

For DJ-led ticketed events, you must supply details about the event name, style, demographic, previous venues with references, and ticket platform. All such events require a risk assessment before a quote is provided; you must await formal approval. Security staffing requirements increase (minimum of 4), and additional vetting applies.

Are there any restrictions on décor, equipment, or entertainment brought on site?

Any external equipment or entertainment (e.g., DJs, bands) requires risk assessments, PAT certificates, and public liability cover. Decor, AV setups, and additional items must also align with venue guidelines; specifics are provided during contracting. The venue prohibits cooking, reheating food, or use of external bars.

What unique features and optional add-ons does the ArcelorMittal Orbit offer for business events?

The venue provides panoramic cityscape views from its two platforms, high-speed lifts, natural daylight, WiFi, and interactive gigapixel viewing technology. For an additional charge (not specified), it is possible to include access to the Helix slide for guests as a team-building or experiential highlight.

What happens if the venue licence is suspended or unavailable for external events?

If the venue’s licence for external events is not active or temporarily suspended, no bookings can proceed. The venue will contact you if anything changes but cannot guarantee future availability until licensing issues are resolved.