Business

What is the daily venue hire rate and are there discounts for multi-day bookings?

The rack rate is £8,000 + VAT per day for The Stables. For longer-term hires, rates can be reduced - for example, a 2-day hire was quoted at £14,400 + VAT (reduced from £16,000). Multi-day bookings typically receive discounted pricing.

What are the mandatory additional costs beyond the venue hire fee?

Security is mandatory at £25-30 per person per hour (1 guard required for setup/breakdown, 2-4 guards when live). A cleaning fee of £150-180 + VAT applies to all bookings. If using external suppliers not on the approved list, an external supplier fee of £500-600 + VAT is charged.

What are the strict timing restrictions and cut-off times?

The Stables has a strict 10pm cut-off time due to lease restrictions, with no loud activities or receptions permitted after 21:00 (9pm). No loud music is allowed at all after 21:00, and volume must not disturb neighboring residents and businesses throughout the event.

What is the maximum capacity and how does production affect guest numbers?

The venue holds approximately 300-315 guests standing before production. The total space is 4,500 sq ft over two floors with an outside courtyard. Capacity may be reduced depending on production requirements, furniture, and event setup.

What AV equipment is included and what needs to be brought in separately?

The venue includes Sonos speakers suitable for background music and track lighting throughout. For events requiring DJs or presentations, you must bring in a separate PA system. Tables, seating, and specialized AV equipment are not provided as this is a dry hire venue.

Can artwork be removed and what are the associated costs?

Artwork removal is possible but costs £3,000-6,000 + VAT depending on the pieces. More cost-effective solutions include using drapery to cover artwork or creating prefabricated structures to sit on top of the existing displays.

What are the loading and access arrangements for setup?

The venue offers vehicle access and direct loading options through the outside courtyard with delivery access. There are two entrances on different streets (Earlham Street and Shelton Street) providing excellent access for equipment and setup.

Is it possible to hire only one floor instead of the entire venue?

No, you cannot hire just a single floor as the venue cannot host two events simultaneously on both floors. The entire venue must be booked, though this only affects security requirements rather than the base venue hire cost.

What catering and supplier restrictions apply?

The Stables operates as a dry hire venue with no in-house catering. You can use approved suppliers from their recommended list, or pay an external supplier fee of £500-600 + VAT to use non-approved vendors. All catering must be arranged separately.

Are there any licensing restrictions that cannot be changed?

The venue cannot apply for late licenses due to lease restrictions. The 10pm cut-off time is non-negotiable and features as part of their lease agreement. Sound restrictions are also fixed and cannot be modified.