Frequently Asked Questions
What are the room hire costs for different spaces and how do weekend rates compare?
Room hire varies significantly by space and day. The Carlton Room costs £1,500+VAT (up to 105 theatre style), Library Room £1,800+VAT (up to 80 theatre style), and Terrace Room £1,500-£2,400+VAT (up to 150 standing reception). Weekend rates are substantially higher - £3,500+VAT per day for weekend bookings. The Elizabeth Room starts at £3,000+VAT for evening events, while exclusive 2nd floor hire ranges from £4,500-£4,800+VAT.
What are the mandatory catering minimums and how do they vary by room?
All rooms have mandatory catering minimums that must be met. Carlton Room requires minimum 55 people for catering, Library Room minimum 15, Terrace Room varies from minimum 55-70 depending on package, and Elizabeth Room minimum 70-180. The Terrace Room also has minimum spend requirements of £2,000-£3,500+VAT depending on the event type.
What are the standard access times and costs for extending hours?
Standard access varies by booking but typically runs 08:00-17:00 for day events and 18:00-23:00/23:30 for evening events. Additional access from 7am or extending to 11pm costs £500+VAT per hour, subject to availability. Some quotes show events running as late as 23:59 but this requires advance arrangement.
What AV equipment is included and what are the costs for additional items?
Basic AV is included with most room hires: projectors/screens, sound systems, Wi-Fi, and AV support on arrival. Additional items cost extra: microphones £45+VAT each, clicker £25+VAT, flipchart £25+VAT, large plasma screens £160+VAT each, external AV fee £500+VAT. Dedicated AV technician costs £400+VAT for 4 hours, £700+VAT for 9 hours, or £80+VAT per additional hour.
Is external catering permitted and what are the in-house catering options?
External catering is not permitted - all catering must be supplied by the in-house provider Vacherin. Options range from basic tea/coffee with biscuits at £4.30-£4.45+VAT per person to full reception packages at £126-£139+VAT per person including room hire, food, and 3-hour unlimited drinks. Day delegate packages range from £70-£98+VAT per person.
How far in advance do bookings need to be confirmed and what is the hold policy?
The venue operates on a first-come, first-served basis with confirmed bookings taking priority. Provisional holds are offered for 5 working days, after which spaces are released to other clients. The venue actively follows up on outstanding proposals and will release bookings if no response is received within their specified timeframes.
What are the capacity limits for different room setups?
Capacities vary significantly by room and setup. Carlton Room: 105 theatre/48 cabaret, Library Room: 80 theatre/40 cabaret/32 boardroom, Terrace Room: 150 standing reception/120 reception/75 theatre, Elizabeth Room: 210 theatre/150 banqueting/250 reception. The 2nd floor exclusive hire accommodates up to 105 in the main Carlton Room with additional breakout spaces.
Are there any restrictions on event types or activities?
While specific restrictions aren't detailed in available information, the venue declined a request for free venue hire with revenue-sharing, indicating they require guaranteed room hire fees. The venue appears to accommodate various corporate events, conferences, parties, and receptions. Budget requirements vary significantly - they noted £4,000 was considered low for Christmas party events.
What spaces include private outdoor access and terrace facilities?
The Terrace Room on the 6th floor provides exclusive access to outdoor terraces with London skyline views and includes terrace furniture as part of the hire. This is described as a self-contained space with facilities and 2 lifts. Other rooms don't appear to include dedicated outdoor access, though the venue's overall location provides various event spaces across multiple floors.
Can spaces be combined and what does exclusive floor hire include?
Yes, multiple arrangements are available. The 2nd floor can be hired exclusively for £4,500-£4,800+VAT, including Carlton, Grosvenor, Alie, and Park Rooms plus mezzanine catering space. The Elizabeth Room and Foyer can be combined for exclusive 1st floor use. The Library Room includes access to 3 private meeting rooms (Mall, Chandos, and Prescott). Each arrangement includes appropriate AV equipment for all spaces.
