Assembly Rooms

Purpose-built as a function space for the grandees of Bath back in 1771, the Assembly Rooms has been hosting elegant soirées for more than two centuries. It remains the largest banqueting venue in Bath thanks to its centrepiece Ball Room, a dazzling space hung with five Whitefriars crystal chandeliers. There is space for 500 guests to enjoy Champagne and canapés. Adjoining the Ball Room is the famous Octagon Room, one of the most popular civil ceremony venues in Bath, with original portraits by Gainsborough. The pillared Tea Room has space for 300 standing, while the narrow yet stylish Card Room, a south-facing space with views over one of Bath’s Georgian gardens, makes a delightful bar. Don’t expect it all to be too Jane Austen though – menus are bang on trend and service is slick and professional. Prices are surprisingly reasonable too. The Assembly Rooms is managed by Searcys.