Business

Dining

Events

What are the venue hire costs and what's included in the base price?

Venue hire ranges from £2,000-£3,150 excluding VAT depending on timing and duration. A typical 5:30pm-11pm hire costs £2,400 excluding VAT. The base hire includes exclusive use of the Great Hall with its five chandeliers, stained-glass windows, and musicians' gallery, plus access to Front Rooms for receptions when available.

What are the mandatory staff costs that must be added to every booking?

Hall staff meals are mandatory for up to 5 staff members on event day. Junior outmess costs £35 excluding VAT per person and senior outmess costs £48-£50 excluding VAT per person. This covers the hall manager, cloakroom staff, and other venue personnel required for your event.

What is the maximum capacity for different event formats?

The Great Hall accommodates up to 150 guests for conferences in theatre-style seating. For seated dinners, capacity varies but quotes show events for 70-120 guests comfortably. The space works well for both large presentations and intimate gatherings with flexible layout options.

Can I bring my own caterer or must I use the venue's catering?

External caterers are not permitted - Saddlers Hall uses Searcys as their exclusive caterer. All food and beverage must be provided through Searcys, with packages ranging from £79-£150 per person excluding VAT depending on the menu and service style selected.

What AV equipment is available and how much does it cost?

The venue has a basic PA system, but all other AV equipment must be hired from their recommended external supplier as they don't keep equipment on-site. Costs vary by requirements - simple setups start around £400-£480 excluding VAT, with more complex conference setups costing more.

How long can I hold a provisional booking and what's required to confirm?

Provisional holds can be placed for 1 week maximum. To confirm your booking, you need a signed agreement and completed hall application. Quotes are typically valid for 2 weeks, and substitutions or adjustments may be required due to unforeseen circumstances.

What are the typical catering package costs per person?

Day delegate rates start from £95-£102 per person excluding VAT. Three-course seated dinners range from £79-£125 per person excluding VAT. Drinks packages cost £36-£48 per person excluding VAT, typically including prosecco reception and half bottle of wine per person. Christmas packages are priced higher at £120-£150 per person excluding VAT.

Are there any restrictions on event timing or days of the week?

The venue appears to accommodate events throughout the week including weekends. Typical event hours run from early morning through 11pm, with some flexibility for later finishes. Access can be arranged from 8am for setup, and the venue can accommodate both daytime conferences and evening receptions.

What spaces are included with a Great Hall hire?

Great Hall hire includes the main hall with its period features, chandeliers, and musicians' gallery. Use of Front Rooms for pre-dinner drinks receptions is available when hiring the Great Hall. The Courtyard can also be used for outdoor receptions and is suitable for up to 100 guests with BBQ packages.

What additional costs should I budget beyond the base venue hire?

Beyond venue hire, budget for mandatory staff meals (£175-£250 total), VAT at 20% on all costs, potential DJ services (£1,900-£2,000 excluding VAT), performing rights fees (£20 excluding VAT), and any additional equipment or services. Event staffing may cost an additional £850 excluding VAT depending on requirements.