Business

Dining

Events

What are the room hire costs for dining events in the Council Chamber and Dorchester Library?

The Council Chamber costs £1,000 + VAT (reduced from £1,700 + VAT) for dining events. The Dorchester Library costs £2,000 + VAT (reduced from £2,700 + VAT) for dinner service. Both spaces require a 70-person minimum for dinner bookings.

What are the catering costs and what's included in the dinner packages?

The 3-course dinner with half bottle of wine costs £70 + VAT per person (some quotes show £74 + VAT). One-hour drinks reception costs £22 + VAT per guest and includes beer, wine, soft drinks and nibbles. All catering is subject to a 70-person minimum.

What is the minimum guest requirement for dining events?

All dining events require a minimum of 70 people. This applies to both the dinner package pricing and room hire rates in the Council Chamber and Dorchester Library.

What timing restrictions apply to dining events?

Drinks reception access begins from 6pm. The venue cannot offer daytime dining events. Events typically run until late evening, though specific end times aren't detailed in available information.

Can I combine different spaces for a dining event?

Yes, you can combine spaces for drinks reception and dinner. A popular option is drinks reception in the Council Chamber (£1,000 + VAT) followed by dinner in the Dorchester Library (£2,000 + VAT), both with the same 70-person minimum requirement.

What is the minimum spend requirement for events?

The venue requires a minimum spend of £2,000 + VAT for events, even for shorter durations like 4-hour bookings. This applies regardless of the specific space or event type being booked.

Are there any restrictions on event content or topics?

Yes, the venue requires disclosure of your event topic to ensure it adheres to the values of the Royal College of Physicians. Events must be approved based on their content and purpose before booking confirmation.

What are the booking hold procedures and decision timelines?

The venue offers first option holds on dates. If another enquiry comes in for your held space, you have 48 hours to make a decision or your booking moves to a second option waitlist.

When is the venue closed and unavailable for bookings?

The venue is completely shut during August for soft refurbishment work. However, limited availability exists for Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th August 2025 for garden events only, with different pricing structures.

What budget range should I expect for a typical dining event?

For 70 people minimum, expect £7,440 + VAT total (Council Chamber hire £1,000 + dinner £4,900 + drinks reception £1,540). Larger events in the Dorchester Library start from £8,440 + VAT for the same guest count.