Dining

Events

Weddings

What are the minimum guest requirements and capacity limits for dining events?

For dining events requiring 120+ guests, you must book the Old Hall/Crypt which dates back to 1490. The venue requires minimum numbers of 30 for meeting spaces, though specific dining minimums vary by space and event type. The Old Hall can accommodate up to 120 for seated dinners or 200 for standing receptions.

What are the room hire costs and minimum food & beverage spend requirements?

Room hire for the Old Hall & Crypt ranges from £2,750 for evening events (17:30 setup, 18:30-22:30 event, de-rig by 23:00) to £6,600 for dry hire. All dining events require a minimum food & beverage spend, typically £7,310-£18,600 depending on guest numbers and event type. Christmas packages start at £176 per person plus VAT with a 90-guest minimum.

Can I bring my own caterer or outside food for private dining events?

No, outside food is strictly prohibited at Lincoln's Inn. All catering must be provided by the venue's in-house catering team. Depending on your caterer requirements, there might be additional small fees, but external catering is not permitted under any circumstances.

What are the venue's closure periods when dining events cannot be held?

Lincoln's Inn is completely closed for the entire month of August and during Easter periods (typically April 17th from 15:00, reopening April 28th). No events can be hosted during these closure periods, so plan your dining events accordingly.

What are the standard event timings and access arrangements for dining events?

Events typically run until 22:30 with de-rig completed by 23:00. Setup access is usually available from 17:30 for evening events. For conferences, the venue operates from 08:00-17:00 with all guests departed by 17:30, but dining events have more flexible evening hours.

Are there restrictions on certain types of events or entertainment?

The venue is not suitable for sixth form proms and certain event types may be declined. While DJ and entertainment can be arranged, the venue maintains strict standards about appropriate events. Birthday parties and private celebrations are accepted, but each event is evaluated individually for suitability.

What day-of-week availability restrictions apply to dining bookings?

Availability varies significantly by day of the week. For example, in November there may be limited Thursday availability with only Wednesdays and Fridays available for certain periods. The venue can be fully booked for entire weeks, so flexibility with dates is important for securing your preferred space.

What is included in the Christmas dining packages and when are they available?

Christmas packages are available in December at £176 per person plus VAT (minimum 90 guests). The package includes hire of the Old Hall & Crypt, arrival champagne reception, unlimited drinks (spirits, mixers, house wines, beer, sparkling wine), nibbles, 5 canapés and 3 bowl food items. Dates in early and mid-December typically have better availability.

How far in advance do I need to book and what is the tentative hold process?

The venue can place dates on tentative hold while you make decisions. Autumn 2025 dinner menu choices and pricing will be confirmed later in the year, so early bookings may have menu details finalized closer to the event date. Popular dates book quickly, especially in November and December.

What additional costs should I budget for beyond room hire and catering minimums?

Beyond the room hire fee and minimum food & beverage spend, you may need to budget for security services (costs vary by event), potential caterer fees if you have specific requirements, and VAT on all charges. Event extensions with bar service until midnight incur additional fees of around £960 plus VAT.