October 2002

From: Conference & Incentive Travel October 2002

CIT takes a look at eight of the capital's biggest venues and asks buyers how they rate them for capacity, accessibility, value formoney, service, staff and catering. Stephanie Roberts reports

Church House Conference Centre Assembly Hall

Church House Conference Centre

Built in the 1930s, this listed building affords panoramic views of the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Hall.

The conference centre as it now stands was opened in 1990. Several of its 13 meeting rooms are currently undergoing a programme of refurbishment, including the Harvey Goodwin suite, which has a theatre-style capacity of 200.

The function areas range in size from the debating chamber Assembly Hall. which seats 670, to the Bishop Partridge Hall. where 180 delegates can mingle over a cocktail reception while overlooking Westminster Abbey.

Agencies agreed overall that the Church House Conference Centre worked well for smaller meetings. although one buyer commented that the main auditorium is limited by its circular design.

However, its accessibility and location was commended, particularly for clients who do not wish to hold a conference in the City of London or the West End.

Value for money was considered excellent compared to similar sized venues in the capital, and the catering was regarded as very good. Staff were deemed informative and helpful on both the operational and research side.

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