Business

Dining

Events

What is the capacity and pricing for dining events at MacMillan Hall?

MacMillan Hall accommodates up to 130 guests for dining events. The venue operates on a Day Delegate Rate (DDR) system starting at £70 per person, which includes venue hire from 08:00-18:00, standard AV package (lectern, laptop, screen, projector, PA system, 3 microphones), dedicated hospitality space, refreshments on arrival, mid-morning refreshments, lunch, mid-afternoon refreshments with cake, venue staffing, utilities, furniture setup, free Wi-Fi, and dedicated event and hospitality managers.

What are the operating hours and earliest access times for events?

The venue cannot accommodate events starting before 08:00, as confirmed when declining requests for 06:00 or 07:00 start times. Standard venue hire runs from 08:00-18:00, though evening events can extend later with additional arrangements. Setup and breakdown times are included within the hire period.

What catering options are available and can external caterers be used?

University of London Venues partners with Gather and Gather for all catering services, which holds a three-star Sustainable Restaurant Association rating. The DDR package includes various meal options from continental breakfast to hot/cold buffets, sharing platters, street food, and bowl food. External caterers are not permitted - all food and beverage must be provided through their approved hospitality partner.

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

Standard AV package includes lectern, laptop, screen, projector, PA system, 3 microphones, and AV technician assistance during setup. For additional AV requirements beyond the standard package, you must contact ConferenceCast/Torpedo, the venue's approved AV provider. All AV services must be arranged through approved suppliers only.

How does the booking process work and what forms are required?

All bookings require completion of an events application form and due diligence form before any quote can be finalized or dates held provisionally. These forms must be submitted for review and approval before being handed over to a dedicated event manager. The venue responds to completed enquiries within two working days with a formal proposal.

What additional spaces are available alongside MacMillan Hall?

MacMillan Hall works in conjunction with adjacent Beveridge Hall and Crush Hall to create an integrated venue solution. Crush Hall serves as registration space, while the combination allows for pre-drinks receptions or expanded event capacity. The dedicated hospitality space is available from 08:00-16:00 for catering service when needed.

What are the payment terms and VAT arrangements?

Venue hire is VAT inclusive in the quoted rates. However, catering and additional services are subject to VAT charges on top of the base price. The DDR rates shown are the total per person cost, but additional services like extended catering hours or weekend service incur extra charges.

Are there restrictions on event types or special requirements?

The venue accommodates various event formats including banquets, private dining, gala dinners, and corporate events. However, all events must comply with university policies and complete due diligence forms for approval. The venue has programmable lighting capabilities and full network access, making it suitable for both formal dining and corporate entertainment events.

What happens if the venue cannot accommodate my preferred date?

The venue frequently experiences high demand and may not have availability for requested dates, particularly in popular months like June 2025. When dates are unavailable, they will suggest alternative dates or direct you to find alternative venues. No provisional holds are placed without completed application forms and approval.

What are the contact details and response times for enquiries?

For urgent enquiries, contact uolevents@london.ac.uk or call +44 (0) 20 7862 8104. The main sales contact is Bharat Dave (Event Sales Manager) at 0207 660 8177 or mobile 07960 019 754. Standard response time is within two working days once all required forms are submitted and the enquiry is assigned to a dedicated event manager.