Dining

Events

Film and Photo

What are the venue hire costs for the Library for film and photo shoots?

The Library hire is £3,500 (VAT exempt) for Monday-Friday 6:30pm to 10pm, or £6,000 (VAT exempt) for Saturday-Sunday. Time extensions beyond 10pm are available at an additional £550 (VAT exempt). Weekend hire includes 8-hour access between 8:30am-10pm with setup, technician if required, and on-site event manager.

What capacity and layout options are available in the Library?

The Library can accommodate up to 120 guests for seated dinner, though with round tables set up, not all guests can see screens/presentations due to the U-shaped layout. The space is clad in warm oak with stunning views over St James's Park, making it ideal for film and photography work.

What are the booking lead times and availability restrictions?

The venue takes bookings up to 12 months ahead. Weekend availability may be limited as the venue is not usually open on weekends, requiring minimum hire charges. Some dates may be provisionally held by other clients, so early booking is recommended.

What technical facilities are included for filming and photography?

The Library includes air conditioning and high-speed Wi-Fi. Additional AV equipment is available including PA system with up to 2 handheld mics and bluetooth connectivity (£198), LED screen (£165), and staging blocks (£55). All AV prices are subject to VAT and include technical support.

Are there restrictions on bringing external equipment or vendors?

External AV suppliers must schedule a site visit with an OBW technician to discuss setup requirements. They need to provide certification for current PLI & PAT testing for equipment and complete a risk assessment. Food cannot be brought back inside the venue if guests go off-site.

What are the access hours and setup requirements?

Standard hire includes access from 6:30pm-10pm on weekdays. Weekend hire provides 8-hour access between 8:30am-10pm. Setup time is included in weekend packages, and an on-site event manager is provided for weekend events.

What catering options are available and are they mandatory?

All catering is provided by approved suppliers including Company of Cooks, Blue Strawberry, and Food by Dish who provide bespoke quotes. Guests can go off-site for food but cannot bring it back inside the venue. Catering is not mandatory but must use approved suppliers if required.

What additional spaces can be hired alongside the Library?

The Library can be combined with the Marble Hall and Gallery for £4,950 (VAT exempt) Monday-Friday 6:30pm-10pm. The Marble Hall, built in Venetian palace style with antique Sienna pilasters and onyx panels, can accommodate up to 200 for standing receptions and provides additional filming/photography backdrops.

What are the payment terms and booking process?

Provisional holds can be placed on dates while finalizing details. The venue requires confirmation to begin contracting, and clients can book individual rooms or multiple spaces. Specific payment terms and deposit requirements are discussed during the booking process.

Are there any budget minimums or restrictions for bookings?

The venue has indicated they decline very last-minute and low-budget enquiries. Weekend hire has a minimum charge of £6,000 (VAT exempt). The venue appears to have budget thresholds, with some enquiries being declined if they don't meet minimum spending requirements.