Events

What are the different event spaces available and their capacities?

Holmes Hotel offers several event spaces: The Billiard Room accommodates up to 14-15 guests (though 15 will be tight), The Conservatory seats 8-10 guests maximum, The Gallery holds up to 37 in cabaret layout or 60 standing, and The Residence (comprising Billiard, Pantry, Conservatory, Library, Laboratory, and Cellar rooms) accommodates up to 80 people standing. For meetings, boardroom and U-shape layouts accommodate 18 guests comfortably, with possibility to add 2 more though it may feel tight.

What are the pricing structures for different event packages?

Private dining packages start at £100 plus VAT per person including prosecco on arrival, 3-course dinner, half bottle of wine and water, plus room hire. Reception packages range from Bronze (£47 plus VAT per person with 1 prosecco, 2 drinks, 3 canapés) to Gold (£82 plus VAT per person with champagne, 3 drinks, 3 canapés, 3 bowl foods). Minimum spend requirements apply - £2,250 plus VAT for drinks receptions (reduced from £3,500) and £2,700 including VAT for some events.

What additional charges and fees should I expect?

A discretionary service charge of 12.5% is added to all final bills. Corkage charges are £30 per bottle if you bring your own wine. All prices quoted are plus VAT unless specifically stated as inclusive. There are no separate room hire fees when booking food and beverage packages.

What are the booking and payment requirements?

A 50% deposit is required to secure the space. Final event details must be provided 10 days before the event. Bookings are typically held on 'Joint First Option' status, meaning the venue may be considering other clients for the same date until confirmed.

What event types are not permitted at the venue?

Holmes Hotel does not host 18th birthday parties. The venue appears to decline events that don't meet their standards or budget requirements, and they may refuse bookings they deem unsuitable for their venue.

What are the typical event timings and operating hours?

Events typically run from 18:00-21:00 for dinner events, 18:00-23:00 for longer receptions, and 15:00-20:00 for afternoon celebrations. The venue can accommodate events until late (midnight or beyond) depending on the space and event type. Setup and breakdown times should be discussed during booking.

What catering options and dietary accommodations are available?

The venue offers set menus for 3-course dinners (£65 set menu mentioned), canapé selections, and bowl food options. They can accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice. Only 3 bowl food options are available on the standard menu, but ingredients can be adjusted for specific dietary needs. Final catering details must be confirmed 10 days before the event.

What AV equipment and additional services are included?

Complimentary plasma screens and WiFi are included in most packages. The venue can accommodate live music and DJs, with in-house music team available for suggestions. They work with external florists for decorations and can assist with entertainment arrangements. Cloakroom service is included in most packages.

Can I arrange a site visit before booking?

Yes, the venue actively encourages site visits and offers to invite potential clients 'for a coffee to see and get a feel for the spaces.' Site visits can typically be arranged during weekdays, and they provide virtual tours via their Matterport link for initial viewing.

What are the seating and layout limitations for different group sizes?

For 20 guests, only boardroom layout with one table is possible due to capacity constraints. Groups of 25 cannot be accommodated at one round table or one large trestle table. The venue acknowledges when spaces will feel 'tight' for certain numbers and provides honest capacity assessments during the booking process.