Business

Dining

Events

What are the different event spaces available and their capacities?

Holmes Hotel offers several event spaces: The Billiard Room accommodates up to 14 seated or 15 standing (though 15 will be tight), The Conservatory seats 8-10 guests, The Gallery holds up to 37 in cabaret layout or 60 standing, and The Residence (comprising Billiard, Pantry, Conservatory, Library, Laboratory, and Cellar rooms) can accommodate up to 80 people for standing receptions. Boardroom and U-shape layouts can seat 18 guests comfortably, with space for 2 additional guests if needed though it may feel tight.

What are the pricing structures for private dining and reception packages?

Private dining packages start at £100 plus VAT per person including prosecco on arrival, 3-course dinner, half bottle of house wine and mineral water, plus room hire. Reception packages range from Bronze at £47 plus VAT per person (1 prosecco, 2 drinks, 3 canapés) to Gold at £82 plus VAT per person (1 champagne, 3 drinks, 3 canapés, 3 bowl foods). All packages include a 12.5% discretionary service charge.

What are the minimum spend requirements instead of room hire fees?

Holmes Hotel operates on minimum spend rather than charging separate room hire fees. The Gallery has a minimum spend of £2,250 plus VAT (reduced from £3,500) for drinks receptions, while other events may have minimum spends of £2,700 plus VAT or £4,000 plus VAT depending on the space and package selected.

What deposit and payment terms are required to secure a booking?

A 50% deposit is required to secure the space, with final event details needed 10 days before the event. The venue typically holds spaces on 'Joint First Option' status while clients make their decision.

What types of events does Holmes Hotel not accommodate?

Holmes Hotel does not host 18th birthday parties and will decline events that don't meet their budget requirements or venue standards. They may also decline events if they determine the venue is unsuitable for the specific event type.

What are the corkage charges for bringing your own alcohol?

Corkage charges are £30 per bottle for guests who wish to bring their own wine or champagne. This allows clients to maximize their budget while still using the venue's facilities and service.

What dining options and dietary accommodations are available?

The venue offers set menus for 3-course dinners, canapé selections, and bowl food options. They can accommodate dietary requirements and adjust ingredients in their menu items. Bowl food options are limited to 3 choices, but ingredients can be modified to meet specific dietary needs.

What seating arrangements and room layouts can be accommodated?

Available layouts include cabaret style (round tables), boardroom (one large table for up to 20 guests), U-shape (up to 18-20 guests), theatre style (up to 60), and standing reception formats. The venue cannot accommodate 25 guests at one single table due to capacity constraints, requiring multiple table arrangements for larger groups.

What entertainment and AV facilities are included?

All packages include complimentary use of plasma screens and WiFi. The venue can accommodate live music and DJs, with in-house music team available for suggestions. They work with external entertainment providers and can assist with decoration and entertainment planning.

What unique features does The Billiard Room offer for events?

The Billiard Room features a dining table that transforms into a fully functional billiards table, making it perfect for interactive dinner parties and receptions. The room includes a drinks cabinet and can be combined with the fully stocked Pantry space for enhanced entertaining options.