The Old Library at The Charterhouse
About this space
Discover the dignified embrace of The Old Library, a stately room that exudes history and elegance. Ideal for meetings, dinners, and receptions, this timeless space showcases the rich heritage of Charterhouse, proudly bearing the marks of its storied past.
Originally Lord North's parlour chamber, the Old Library has served various roles throughout its history, ranging from an auditors' hall to the lively school dining room bustling with boisterous boys. It acquired its current title in the late 19th century, establishing itself as a haven for intellectual pursuits and refined gatherings.
The scars from the Blitz serve as poignant reminders of the resilience and endurance of this historic space. Portraits of Archbishops and Bishops of London, dating back to the 18th century, grace the walls, lending a tranquil and dignified ambience to every occasion. Each brushstroke and scar tells a story, creating an atmosphere that seamlessly blends the past with the present.
Whether hosting a meeting, an intimate dinner, or a lively reception, The Old Library offers a setting that transcends time. It is a space where history, elegance, and the spirit of Charterhouse converge to create an unforgettable experience.
Prices
- We provide various event packages that are thoroughly discussed directly when booking your event.
- There is a £700 + VAT fee for bringing external caterers in.
- There is a £10 +VAT corkage charge per person
- In case of booking for the wedding ceremony only, a photography session on-site is charged £350 +VAT.
- The Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday. It can be closed especially for an event, which incurs a £2,000 + VAT charge for the whole day or £400+ VAT per hour.
- The rates can be revised on a case-by-case basis.
- Minimum of 30 guests.
- The deposit required to secure the date is 50% of the quoted price.
- We provide various event packages that are thoroughly discussed directly when booking your event.
- There is a £700 + VAT fee for bringing external caterers in.
- There is a £10 +VAT corkage charge per person
- In case of booking for the wedding ceremony only, a photography session on-site is charged £350 +VAT.
- The Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday. It can be closed especially for an event, which incurs a £2,000 + VAT charge for the whole day or £400+ VAT per hour.
- The rates can be revised on a case-by-case basis.
- Minimum of 30 guests.
- The deposit required to secure the date is 50% of the quoted price.
- We provide various event packages that are thoroughly discussed directly when booking your event.
- There is a £700 + VAT fee for bringing external caterers in.
- There is a £10 +VAT corkage charge per person
- In case of booking for the wedding ceremony only, a photography session on-site is charged £350 +VAT.
- The Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday. It can be closed especially for an event, which incurs a £2,000 + VAT charge for the whole day or £400+ VAT per hour.
- The rates can be revised on a case-by-case basis.
- Minimum of 30 guests.
- The deposit required to secure the date is 50% of the quoted price.
- We provide various event packages that are thoroughly discussed directly when booking your event.
- There is a £700 + VAT fee for bringing external caterers in.
- There is a £10 +VAT corkage charge per person
- In case of booking for the wedding ceremony only, a photography session on-site is charged £350 +VAT.
- The Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday. It can be closed especially for an event, which incurs a £2,000 + VAT charge for the whole day or £400+ VAT per hour.
- The rates can be revised on a case-by-case basis.
- Minimum of 30 guests.
- The deposit required to secure the date is 50% of the quoted price.
- We provide various event packages that are thoroughly discussed directly when booking your event.
- There is a £700 + VAT fee for bringing external caterers in.
- There is a £10 +VAT corkage charge per person
- In case of booking for the wedding ceremony only, a photography session on-site is charged £350 +VAT.
- The Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday. It can be closed especially for an event, which incurs a £2,000 + VAT charge for the whole day or £400+ VAT per hour.
- The rates can be revised on a case-by-case basis.
- Minimum of 30 guests.
- The deposit required to secure the date is 50% of the quoted price.
- We provide various event packages that are thoroughly discussed directly when booking your event.
- There is a £700 + VAT fee for bringing external caterers in.
- There is a £10 +VAT corkage charge per person
- In case of booking for the wedding ceremony only, a photography session on-site is charged £350 +VAT.
- The Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday. It can be closed especially for an event, which incurs a £2,000 + VAT charge for the whole day or £400+ VAT per hour.
- The rates can be revised on a case-by-case basis.
- Minimum of 30 guests.
- The deposit required to secure the date is 50% of the quoted price.
- We provide various event packages that are thoroughly discussed directly when booking your event.
- There is a £700 + VAT fee for bringing external caterers in.
- There is a £10 +VAT corkage charge per person
- In case of booking for the wedding ceremony only, a photography session on-site is charged £350 +VAT.
- The Museum is open to the public Tuesday-Saturday. It can be closed especially for an event, which incurs a £2,000 + VAT charge for the whole day or £400+ VAT per hour.
- The rates can be revised on a case-by-case basis.
- Minimum of 30 guests.
- The deposit required to secure the date is 50% of the quoted price.
Capacity
Catering and drinks
Facilities
Music & sound equipment
Accessibility
Rules of the space
Allowed events
Host rules
- Due to the special nature of the Charterhouse as an almshouse for a community of older men and women, events can only take place between 8.00am and 10.00pm.
- The Brothers who live here permanently will be on-site during your event. They will be made aware of your event, and will respect the areas designated for you and your guests.
- The Chapel and Cloister are parts of our public museum. Unless opting for the museum closure option, we cannot guarantee there will not be the possibility of people walking into the chapel.
- We cannot hold civil ceremonies in our outside spaces.
- The Chapel and Chapel Cloister cannot be used for weddings – but you can have your blessing there.
- Confetti is allowed outside as long as it is biodegradable.
- Candles can be used both inside and outside, but they have to be smokeless.
- DJs and dancing is allowed in the Norfolk Cloister and Old Library [up to 9.30pm]. In other areas we can have live music but not as loud.
- All children under 14 need to be supervised by designated adults at all times during your event.
- We allow guide dogs on the premises, but no other animals. Outside we can also consider well-behaved dogs on leads, and horses.
- No smoking anywhere on site (including outdoor spaces).
About The Charterhouse
Welcome to The Charterhouse, a living testament to centuries of history, nestled between Barbican and Smithfield Market, just north of the iconic Charterhouse Square. Once a Carthusian monastery, this grand site has transformed over time into a private mansion, a boys' school, and, today, an almshouse—a role it continues to fulfill with grace.
The Charterhouse is more than just a venue; it is a journey through time, a story told with grand scales and intricate details. Whether you seek a location that embodies a specific historical period or provides an atmospheric backdrop for a shoot or event, The Charterhouse offers a diverse range of styles, architecture, lighting, and authentic period details.
With its unique advantage in the market, The Charterhouse is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Many guests are likely to find this location new, unexpected, and stunning - a venue that stands out in the heart of London. The indoor and outdoor spaces, each with its own unique character, provide countless opportunities for innovative formats and designs.
As The Charterhouse undergoes redevelopment, its main event spaces are now among the most prestigious venues in central London. The vision extends beyond hosting events; it is about creating a permanent and vital entity that contributes to charity and leaves a lasting legacy. The Charterhouse embraces a progressive attitude towards environmental sustainability and fair, ethical work practices.
By choosing one of our highly adaptable and characterful spaces for your event, you directly support this 400-year-old charity and contribute to the preservation of the site for future generations.
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