Private Dining in Cambridge

Private Dining and Special Occasion Venues in Cambridge

Meet Cambridge offers you an incredible collection of the most unique event venues in Cambridge, perfect for private dining, gala dinners and special occasions. From grand Tudor halls to oak-beamed parlours, contemporary dining rooms, function suites, pavilions and garden settings for groups of 8 to 800.

With impeccable service, award-winning chefs and creative cuisine, private dining in Cambridge is an incredible experience for those who choose to dine and celebrate in our venues.

Private Dining in a Cambridge College

Exclusive, fine dining in a Cambridge College is a unique and memorable way to entertain key clients, reward staff or simply to celebrate in style. Bespoke menus are created by in-house teams and offered with fine wines from the College cellars. Guests are waited on by experienced butlers in ancient, majestic halls, some lit only by candlelight, or in historic dining rooms with warming open fires. Whatever the size of your group, we have venues that can offer you small intimate dining rooms as well as incredible options for gala dinners.

In Spring and Summer organisers can make the most of a selection of impeccably manicured gardens for drinks and canapès, tea parties or informal hog roasts in riverside or country locations.

Parties and Private Functions in Cambridge

Our unique portfolio offers a range of options for parties and celebrations in Cambridge. Whether you need a room to celebrate an anniversary, a milestone birthday, family gathering, reunion or a charity fundraiser, we'd be delighted to help. The occasion can include canapés, lunches, afternoon tea, buffets, dinners or simply a few drinks and some dancing!

Submit an enquiry today and we’ll take the leg work out of finding a venue for an event with our free, venue-finding service. Our experienced team will check availability quickly and get back to you with your options and then it’s over to you to choose!

We save you time with your search and help you to find the perfect location quickly.

FAQ's

What food is Cambridge famous for?

Cambridge is famous for a variety of foods some of which may be surprising! Top of the list is Cambridge Pudding – a sweet dessert made with cream, eggs, yeast, sugar and raisins. It is also sometimes known as ‘College Pudding’ as it is dish associated with Cambridge University students. Another University favourite is Cambridge Burnt Cream, a pastry version of crème brulee. Other foods you may also find on a menu are:

Duke of Cambridge Tart, a baked pastry tart filled with a custard mix of egg yolks, sugar and candied fruit; served with a generous helping of fresh cream. Pre-dating the famous Bakewell Tart, the Duke of Cambridge Tart is presumed to be the oldest tart in England!
Fitzbillies Chelsea Buns, a favourite of alumnus Stephen Fry, are super sticky sweet buns. Cut into a distinctive spiral, the bun dough is rolled in a mixture of currants, brown sugar and spices. They ooze a silky syrup and have a satisfying crunch when bitten into.
Said to have originated from the region, Maris Piper potatoes can be found on many venues in and around Cambridge.

How does private dining work?

Private dining is exclusive hiring of a venue’s dining room / college hall. Menus are usually pre-selected at least 2 weeks before the dinner takes place. Check out our tips for private conference dining here.

What is the basic rule for formal dining?

Formal dining is where food is served to guests straight from the kitchen; guests do not touch or handle any platters. In addition, neither serving dishes nor utensils are placed on the table. The number of courses can vary but are typically 3 courses with the possibility of adding a cheese and port course at the end.

Dress codes tend to be formal no leisurewear.

Is Trinity Hall the same as Trinity College?

No. Both are separate entities in their own right. Trinity Hall is older than Trinity College.

What is CU known for?

Cambridge University is known for its academic reputation globally. Famous alumni include Newton, Babbage, Gloria Carpenter and Rosalind Franklin. To see some of the key sectors, read more here.

How many acres of ground are there at Madingley Hall?

Madingley Hall boasts 12 acres of ground, landscaped by the famous Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown. Read more here.

What is a gala dinner?

A gala dinner is a large formal dining event that includes a drinks reception, a served sit-down meal and usually, dancing. It also includes typically a form of presentation, speech, awards ceremony, or announcement between dinner and dancing.

What’s the difference between a gala and a ball?

A gala event is a more formal gathering of people and usually, includes speeches. A ball is an informal social gathering and tends to be more celebratory in mood.

What is gala etiquette?

Gala etiquette varies depending on the culture, location, and nature of the gala. If you are unsure, erring on the side of politeness and respect is always a good approach.