BOOKING UNION VENUES FOR YOUR EVENT

Modified on Fri, 31 Jul at 2:30 PM

Booking Union Venues for Your Event

What's Available and Why It Matters

As a student group leader, you can book fantastic Union venues for everything from big parties to smaller socials. There’s a space for every type of event.

Choose from three venues: Metric, Union Bar, and Reynolds. Each offers its own style and setup, so you can pick what works best for your group.

Quick link: Start your booking now with the Venue Hire Enquiry Form. Read on for details on costs, cancellations, equipment hire, etc.

Our Three Union Venues

Metric, South Kensington

Big, bold, and super versatile: Metric is the go-to for larger events.

Fully stocked bar with outdoor beer garden (non-alcoholic options always available)
Great for: parties, gigs, awards nights, summer BBQs
Capacity: 400 standing / 150 seated

Union Bar, South Kensington

A classic pub feel with real Imperial history. Check out the pewter tankards!

Intimate and welcoming atmosphere
Great for: smaller gatherings, chill socials, casual meetups
Capacity: 60 standing / 40 seated

Reynolds, Charing Cross

Freshly refurbished and perfect for lively events with a buzz.

Great for: club nights, gigs, big socials
Capacity: 400 standing / 200 seated

NOTE: All venues display the Union's Code of Conduct. Everyone using the space is expected to treat it and each other with respect. You can read the full Code of Conduct on the Union website.

How Much Does It Cost?

The Union uses a minimum spend model for venue bookings. Rather than paying a flat hire fee, you simply commit to meeting a minimum spend at the bar, which covers staffing, security, and running costs. It's designed to make events more affordable and straightforward for clubs and societies.

Minimum Spend Guide

Venue	Capacity	4-Hour Minimum Spend	Extta Hour
Metric / Reynolds	Up to 200	£680	£100
Metric / Reynolds	Up to 400	£970	£150
Union Bar	Flat rate	£250	£50

NOTE: Extras like tech staff, equipment, or catering are not included in the minimum spend and will be quoted separately. Got a unique event? Email the ICU Events Team at icu.events@imperial.ac.uk to discuss your needs.

How to Meet Your Minimum Spend

You can hit your minimum spend through:

Bar sales on the night (the easiest option!)
Buying drinks vouchers ahead of time
Using ticket income to cover the cost

If you don't quite reach the target, you'll pay the difference afterward via internal transfer.

Don't Want to Use the Spend Model?

No problem. You can still book venues without it:

Union Bar (Dry Hire): Free to use the space, with drinks available from FiveSixEight
Metric (Dry Hire): Free to use; if you expect 80+ attendees, a security fee may apply
Reynolds: Free to book a section on public bar nights (Wednesday to Friday)

Equipment, Add-Ons & Drinks

Free equipment you can book alongside your venue:

Portable PA system
Microphones
Screen / Projector

Catering is also available at a cost, from BBQs to canapés. Ask the Events Team for options.

Drinks tokens/vouchers: For full details on providing drinks for your guests, see our Drinks Tokens article.

Budgeting for Your Event

When creating your event budget, use these budget codes:

Venue minimum spend = "Ground Hire (710)"
Drinks vouchers = "Hospitality (730)"

Both are VAT-free and handled via internal transfer.

Key Terms & Conditions

Before you book, make sure you're aware of the following:

Stick to your agreed start and end times.
Leave the venue tidy after your event.
Do not go backstage or into staff-only areas.
Only ICU-trained staff can operate technical equipment
You will be charged for any damage or lost items
Cancellation charges apply if you cancel late, especially within 7 days of the event

IMPORTANT: Late cancellations within 7 days of your event may incur charges. Make sure your event is confirmed before submitting your booking.

How to Book

Complete the Venue Hire Enquiry Form. Submit it at least 2 weeks before your event.
Wait for confirmation. The Events Team will get in touch to help you plan and confirm your booking.
Plan your budget using the minimum spend guide and correct budget codes.

Next Steps

Ready to get started? Fill out the Venue Hire Enquiry Form at least two weeks before your event date.

Have questions before booking? Email the ICU Events Team at icu.events@imperial.ac.uk.They're happy to help you find the right space and set up your event for success.

Still have questions? Check out the rest of our Knowledge Base articles or submit a ticket to the Activities Team.