Exclusive hire of Helix and Iris at Searcys at the Gherkin - Weddings
Capacity: Up to 300 guests (Reception)
Location: 30 St Mary Axe, City, EC3A 8EP, London
Coordinates: 51.5144054, -0.0802511
Features
- Wifi
- 360 degree views
- Bar
- In-house catering by Searcys
- Lift
Food & Drink
- Professional Kitchen
- Halal Catering
- Kosher Catering
Space
- Disabled Access
- 150m² (1,615ft²)
Licenses
- Licensed Until 11pm
- Extensions Available
- Wedding License
Capacities
- 140 Dining
- 300 Reception
- 300 Standing
- 140 Wedding
Venue Guide Prices
Dining
Party packages
| Price | Schedule | Package |
|---|---|---|
| £75 / Per Person | Every day, 09:00 - 17:00 | Breakfast Package |
Party packages
| Price | Schedule | Package |
|---|---|---|
| £135 / Per Person | Every day, 09:00 - 17:00 | Day Delegate Rate |
Events
Delegate packages
| Price | Schedule | Package |
|---|---|---|
| £79 / Per Person | Mondays to Fridays, 09:00 - 17:00 | Breakfast package |
Party packages
| Price | Schedule | Package |
|---|---|---|
| £159 / Per Person | Every day, 09:00 - 17:00 | Reception Package |
Weddings
Party packages
| Price | Schedule | Package |
|---|---|---|
| £215 / Per Person | Every day, 09:00 - 17:00 | Wedding Package |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the room hire costs and minimum spend requirements for wedding events?
Private dining rooms on level 38 have a room hire fee of £500 + VAT with minimum spends of £2,000 + VAT for afternoon events (12:00-16:00) or £2,500 + VAT for evening events (18:30-23:00). For exclusive hire of levels 39 and 40 (Helix & Iris), room hire is £11,000-£15,000 + VAT with minimum spends ranging from £12,000-£20,000 + VAT depending on timing and date.
What capacity limits apply to different wedding celebration formats?
Private dining rooms on level 38 accommodate up to 18 guests for seated dining with oval table setup, or maximum 2 round tables of 10 people each. For larger celebrations, exclusive hire of levels 39 and 40 can accommodate up to 260 guests for standing receptions, or 150 guests for seated events.
What are the standard event timings and access arrangements?
Afternoon events typically run 12:00-16:00 with organizer access from 11:30. Evening events run 18:30-23:00 with organizer access from 18:00 and guest arrival from 18:30. Events can be extended until 03:00 with the late license for an additional £1,500 + VAT per hour between 23:00-03:00.
How does the booking and payment process work?
Bookings operate on a first-come, first-served basis requiring 100% deposit payment to confirm. You'll need to provide the contract signatory's details, billing address, event date, and payment method (bank transfer or credit card, with AMEX surcharge applying). The remaining balance is due 3 months prior to the event.
What service charges and additional fees should couples budget for?
A discretionary 12.5% service charge applies to all food and beverage items and is included in the contract by default. Additional costs include mobile bar with private bartender at £500 + VAT, and £350 + VAT supplement if bringing your own AV equipment instead of using preferred suppliers.
What catering options and pricing are available for wedding celebrations?
Three-course menus start from £75 + VAT per person (whole party must have same starter, main, and dessert), working lunch options at £40 + VAT per person, and continental breakfast with baps at £81.75 + VAT per person. All catering orders including dietary requirements must be pre-ordered 10 working days prior, with final numbers required 5 working days before the event.
What audio-visual equipment is included and what are the upgrade options?
Built-in speakers for background music are included throughout the rooms. For additional AV requirements, the preferred supplier is Prelude Entertainment (020 8660 6647). If you bring your own AV equipment instead of using preferred suppliers, a supplement of £350 + VAT applies.
Are there restrictions on external suppliers or specific event requirements?
Searcys provides in-house catering, but external caterers may be considered for dry hire arrangements at £18,000 + VAT with 4 hours kitchen access (venue hire 2pm-10pm). Guest entry is pre-booked only with ID required upon arrival. All vendor and catering company details must be submitted for approval in advance.
What happens if my preferred date is unavailable?
If your preferred date is fully booked, the venue can offer alternative dates or introduce you to Searcys sister properties with similar capacity and offerings. The sales team maintains a brochure of sister venues with their locations and capacities for alternative options.
How far in advance should couples book and what is the site visit process?
Site visits can be arranged with advance notice, with the sales team typically offering multiple viewing dates throughout the week. The venue includes a 3D virtual tour for initial viewing, but in-person visits are recommended to experience the 360-degree views and assess the space for your specific celebration needs.
Venue Photos
This venue has 22 professional photos:










...and 12 more photos available.
Amenities & Features
- 360-degree panoramic views from London's iconic Gherkin
- Exclusive hire of Helix and Iris on levels 39-40
- Sky-high private dining rooms on level 38
- In-house catering by Searcys
- Built-in speakers for background music
- Late licence until 03:00
- 3D virtual tour available
- Lift access to all levels
Event Types
Great for: The only venue offering exclusive hire at the top of London's iconic Gherkin with unparalleled 360-degree city views.
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Additional Information
✓ Prime Venue - Verified premium partner
Contact: Available through HireSpace booking platform
