Frequently Asked Questions
Hall hire from 6pm until midnight (although we usually have it available much earlier in the day)
Tables & chairs, as required
A composite stage (sections of 1m x 2m) which is 3m by 8m at its full extent.
A splendid music system
Full use of the terraces and terrace furniture
If you would like a catered event, we can offer our professional kitchens and we can provide plates, cutlery, glasses and tablecloths. We can also provide a well-stocked, staffed bar. There are additional (but very reasonable) charges for these extras.
At a push, the hall can seat a maximum of 150 guests although we find that 80-120 is far more comfortable. Guests can be seated at 5’ round tables with 8 to a table. You can seat 10 to a table if you are not planning to have serving platters or large centrepieces. You are welcome to hire trestles or other furniture if you prefer – we can provide you with details of a reliable local supplier.
That’s entirely up to you! Our well-equipped kitchen is available for use by whoever you choose to provide the catering and you are welcome to use the terraces to stage a hog roast or pizza oven. You are also welcome to make use of the kitchens yourself or we can recommend a number of local caterers who offer a diverse range of menus.
We work closely with a local wine merchant to provide a wide selection of wines and we pride ourselves on our sensible pricing: we do not charge ‘event’ prices. We have a well-stocked, fully-licensed bar which can be staffed for your party if you wish or we can arrange and chill selected wines and beer barrels for self-service. Have a favourite beer or spirit? No problem, we can handle special requests although some extra charges may be incurred with unusual beers.
The basic hall hire rate does not include cleaning after the event. If you are on a tight budget it may suit you to take responsibility for cleaning the hall and public areas yourself, although if you employ a caterer it is normal practise for them to leave the kitchens as they find them. We can usually allow you the whole of the following day to undertake this, but will give you plenty of advance warning if this is not the case. We are happy to undertake the clean-up and can provide you with very reasonable quotes if you’d prefer to allocate the chore!
Absolutely! The hall has a multitude of hooks tucked at strategic points to allow for easy bunting-hanging and decoration. We can recommend local florists along with a range of event hire companies which specialise in all manner of table dressings, centre pieces, chair sashes, decorations, vintage china etc. We have a portfolio of photographs from previous Cliff House functions which illustrate the versatility of the hall and may provide you with some inspiration if you need any!
We cannot allow candles in the hall - battery operated candles are a good alternative. We have found that jam jars and glass candle holders can also prove a hazard outside and we would much prefer they were not used, particularly on the wall.
In order to protect our coastal environment, we do not permit the release of balloons or fire lanterns from the terraces.
This will depend largely on other bookings but we endeavour to have the hall available from lunchtime on the day, although often from lunchtime the day before.
Of course! There is ample room in the hall for a ‘designated’ dance area for parties with up to 80-100 guests. For larger events, you will want to remove a few tables at an appropriate moment to create space for dancing. Our licence permits music until 11:45pm.
Yes indeed - Cliff House has a lift from street level and a disabled toilet.
We do not have designated parking at Cliff House but there are 2 hour parking bays on the road.
We can provide you with details of a local coach company who can transport your guests from the park and ride at the top of town or collect them from other accommodation and return them at the end of the evening. We also have a list of local taxi firms and strongly advise your guests to pre-book them.
We do not allow fireworks at Cliff House, (apart from sparklers on the terrace!) If you wish to have a firework display you will need to consult with the Harbour Office about setting them off from a boat. Tel 01548 843791. And just to warn you… the beach opposite is privately owned and you would need to ask permission before using it.
To secure a confirmed booking you need to fill in and return our booking form and provide a 25% non-refundable deposit. The balance is due 8 weeks prior to your event. We may also require a £75 security deposit.
Of course! We would be delighted to show you around and discuss your requirements. Just call or email to make an appointment with one of our team.