The Lookout at 8 Bishopsgate

The Lookout can accommodate up to 150 guests for a conference followed by a canape reception. For events requiring exclusive use, the venue removes portioning walls to extend the space, technically hiring both The Lookout and meeting rooms for evening events.

Venue hire is £8,000 plus VAT with an additional £1,500 plus VAT for mandatory security and cleaning fees. There is a minimum spend requirement on food and beverage only, which is in addition to the venue hire costs.

Due to the space being open to public access during the day, setup access is only available from 5:30pm with a minimum event start time of 6:30pm based on the level of production required. Events typically run until late evening.

The Canapes and Bowls Gold Package costs £102.85 plus VAT per person and includes 4 canapes, 2 bowls, prosecco on arrival, glass of house wine, single house spirit and mixer, 1 beer and 1 soft drink. Unlimited drinks upgrade is available for an additional £40 plus VAT per person.

Dates cannot be offered on 1st option until 8 weeks out from the event date. Initially, dates are held on 2nd option, and City of London approval is required for venue closure, which must be obtained before proceeding with contracts.

Beyond the £8,000 venue hire, mandatory costs include £1,500 security and cleaning fee, minimum food and beverage spend, and a 13.5% discretionary service charge added post-event. All prices are quoted excluding VAT.

The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment including sound systems, multiple microphones (handheld, lapel, lectern, and gooseneck), and a large LED presentation screen. Professional technical support is available to assist throughout events.

Clients can bring their own DJ for events. The venue allows external entertainment and suppliers, though specific approval processes and restrictions may apply depending on the type of service or equipment being brought in.

If budgets cannot be met, the venue offers referrals to other Rhubarb venues that may be more suitable. For smaller budgets, Sky Garden packages are available for up to 99 guests at approximately £45 per person.

The venue can accommodate various layouts including theatre style, cabaret, boardroom, and standing reception formats. For evening events, portioning walls are removed to create a larger combined space using both The Lookout and adjacent meeting rooms.