Business

Dining

Events

What are the different event spaces available and their capacities?

Holmes Hotel offers several event spaces: The Gallery accommodates up to 60 standing or 37 in cabaret layout, The Billiard Room fits up to 14-15 guests seated (though 15 may feel tight), The Conservatory holds 8-10 seated guests, and The Laboratory accommodates up to 20 for drinks receptions. The Residence area combines multiple spaces (Billiard, Pantry, Conservatory, Library, Laboratory, and Cellar) and can accommodate up to 80 people standing.

What are the pricing options for drinks receptions?

Holmes Hotel offers three reception packages: Bronze at £47 plus VAT per person (1 prosecco, 2 drinks, 3 canapés), Silver at £62 plus VAT per person (1 prosecco, 3 drinks, 6 canapés), and Gold at £82 plus VAT per person (1 champagne, 3 drinks, 3 canapés plus 3 bowl foods). All packages include room hire, staff, cloakroom, plasma screen, and WiFi.

What are the minimum spend requirements?

Minimum spend varies by space and event size. For The Gallery with 25 people, the minimum spend is £2,250 plus VAT (reduced from £3,500). For larger events, minimum spends can reach £4,000 plus VAT for The Residence area, and up to £8,000 plus VAT for bigger celebrations.

What additional charges apply to all bookings?

A discretionary service charge of 12.5% is added to all final bills. VAT at 20% applies to all pricing. If you bring your own alcohol, corkage charges are £30 per bottle.

What deposit and payment terms are required?

Holmes Hotel requires a 50% deposit to secure the space. Final event details must be provided 10 days before the event date. The venue typically holds spaces on 'Joint First Option' status while clients make their decision.

What seating and layout options are available?

The venue offers multiple layout options including boardroom and U-shape (both accommodate 18 guests comfortably, up to 20 maximum but may feel tight), cabaret style for larger groups, theatre setup for up to 60 people, and standing reception layouts. Some spaces work better for specific arrangements - for example, 25 guests cannot be accommodated at one large table.

What types of events does Holmes Hotel not accommodate?

Holmes Hotel does not host 18th birthday parties. They may decline events due to low budgets or if the venue is deemed unsuitable for the specific event type. The venue appears to focus on corporate events, private dining, and upscale social gatherings.

What food and beverage options are available?

The venue offers canapés, bowl food options (though only 3 bowl options are available on the menu), and full dinner packages. They can accommodate dietary requirements by adjusting ingredients. For private dining, packages include prosecco/champagne on arrival, 3-course dinners, half bottles of wine and water per person, plus tea and coffee.

What AV equipment and facilities are included?

All packages include complimentary use of plasma screens and WiFi. The venue can accommodate live music and DJs, with an in-house music team available for suggestions. They can provide microphones for speakers and have facilities for presentations.

What are the typical event timings and availability?

Events typically run during standard hours, with examples showing 18:00-21:00 for dinners, 18:00-23:00 for receptions, and 15:00-20:00 for afternoon celebrations. The venue can accommodate events until late (midnight or beyond) depending on the booking. Site visits can be arranged, typically during weekday afternoons.