Your Event FAQS

reception in the Atrium

Explore operational questions you may have and find out more about hosting your event at the Royal Institution Venue.

Can I hire the whole building?

We offer exclusive venue hire as well as exclusive hire of the first floor only. For more information on which spaces you can hire, head to the Our Spaces page. 

Can I brand the space for my event?

Yes, we work in a creative way with you, your agency and our Grade I listed venue to make sure that all the elements complement each other and nothing is forgotten.

If you would like to use our in-house branding agent head to Our Suppliers page for more information.

Can I bring in my own caterers?

We ask that all events use our in house catering partner Searcys, however we may consider external caterers under special circumstances.

Please raise this with your dedicated event manager if you would like further information.

Does the venue have an in-house AV team?

Yes, our experienced in-house AV team will look after all your technical requirements, ensuring that your event runs smoothly

Can I use third party suppliers?

You are more than welcome to bring in your own third party supplier for a service not supplied by one of our partners. For bespoke needs the venue hire team are happy to work with you to achieve the best possible result for your event.

Do you offer a charity discount?

We offer a 10% charity discount on room hire for registered UK charities.

How do I book a site visit?

Get in touch with the team today about your event and they will arrange a tour of the venue for you.

Do you offer inclusive/Day Delegate Rates?

We offer a range of Day Delegate Rates including room hire, AV and catering.

Our dedicated team are on hand to make sure you have everything you need to get the most out of your day. Choose from three rates all of which include, room hire, AV and a catering offer tailored to suit a range of budgets and requirements.

We can also offer bespoke inclusive rates for specific events. For more information please discuss with your event manager.

How early and late can I book the venue?

7am – 10pm is our normal time for events. However we are able to extend our opening hours on special request. 

Can I arrange a tour for my guests?

Yes. Engage your delegates with a tour of the building by our Curator or a talk demonstrating how Ri scientists helped shape the modern world. These can be as in-depth as you like and tailored to your occasion. Our expert Curators can delve into our archives and find a connection to enhance your corporate event.

We can also go one step further for you and host an exciting live science demonstration for you and your guests. Using famous inventions that were created at the Ri, our presenters  use a variety of chemicals and demonstrations to explain how they work; from the use of fireballs to show how miners were kept safe, to the use of liquid nitrogen to show how the vacuum flask was invented.

Our demonstrations are unique, fun, high octane and very Instagram-friendly. If you are interested in adding a tour or a demonstration to your event get in touch with your event manager for further information.

Is it possible for the venue to provide additional AV equipment?

Yes. The Ri has a wide range of AV equipment that can be hired separately. Please get in touch with your event manager for further details. 

Is it possible to have extra time in the venue to set up?

We allot up to one hour before and after your event as standard. If you require additional time please get in touch with your event manager. 

Can I deliver event collateral prior to my event?

Small deliveries can be accepted by arrangement with your event manager. As we have very limited storage space we are unable accept deliveries further than 24 hours before your event. Unfortunately, we do not have space to store items after your event.