Events

What are the venue hire costs and minimum catering requirements for different spaces?

The Garden Room & Conservatory costs £7,800+VAT for evening hire (17:30-00:00) with a minimum catering spend of £3,000+VAT. Cinema 1 day hire is £6,100+VAT (08:30-17:00) and evening hire is £5,100+VAT (17:30-23:00), both with £5,000+VAT minimum catering spend. Frobisher Triple Room day hire is £3,200+VAT (08:30-17:00) with overnight hold at £950+VAT and £1,500+VAT minimum catering spend.

What are the capacity limits for each event space?

The Garden Room & Conservatory accommodates 220 banquet, 180 dinner/dance, 450 reception, 180 seated buffet, or 350 fork buffet. Cinema 1 has a total capacity of 280 in raked auditorium style. Frobisher Triple Room holds 170 theatre style or 96 cabaret style, with individual Frobisher suites ranging from 10-175 people depending on configuration.

What AV equipment is included and what are the additional costs?

Cinema 1 includes a 34000lms 4K DLP cinema projector, screen, PA system, 3 cabled microphones, Wi-Fi, full house lighting system, and dedicated technician. Frobisher rooms include LCD projector (8000lms WUXGA resolution), screen, and Wi-Fi. Additional options include PA system & microphone for £111+VAT and 55" LCD screens for £175+VAT.

What are the standard event timings and setup requirements?

Day hire runs 08:30-17:00 and evening hire runs 17:30-00:00. Tenancy times include setup and de-rig - the venue recommends 1.5 hours for setup and 30 minutes for de-rig. For events requiring earlier access (like 15:00 for evening events), additional hourly charges apply at £750+VAT per hour.

How far in advance must invoices be paid?

All invoices must be paid prior to the event going ahead. The venue requires signed contracts and advance payment before confirming any booking, with the finance team processing payments once invoices are submitted.

What catering arrangements are available?

All catering is provided by Searcys, the venue's exclusive catering partner. Each space has mandatory minimum catering spends that must be met regardless of actual consumption. The venue can accommodate dietary requirements including halal, vegan, and vegetarian options, and offers various service styles from seated dinners to standing receptions.

Are there any restrictions on dates or availability?

The venue frequently has large conference groups that block multiple days (such as 8th-10th September periods mentioned). Popular spaces like Cinema 1 and Auditorium 1 with 220 capacity book up quickly. The venue recommends checking date flexibility as fixed dates may not be available, especially for larger capacity requirements.

What unique features does the Conservatory offer for events?

The Conservatory is a tropical oasis housing over 1,500 species of plants and trees, exotic fish, and currently features a site-specific art commission by Indian sculptor Ranjani Shettar. It offers overhead heating and creates a unique jungle-like atmosphere in the heart of London, making it particularly distinctive for receptions and networking events.

What happens if my preferred date is unavailable?

If your requested date is unavailable, the venue's account managers will actively help find alternative venues that meet your requirements. They maintain relationships with other London venues and will send recommendations if the Barbican cannot accommodate your specific date and space needs.

What technical support is provided for events?

Cinema 1 includes a dedicated technician for sound and lighting as part of the hire package. Other spaces may require additional technical support which can be arranged. The venue provides full house lighting systems, professional projection equipment, and can accommodate complex AV setups including large LED screen installations with advance notice.