Flexible Graduation Ceremonies: From 500-2,000 Graduates at Central Hall Westminster
As graduates climb the iconic grand staircase to reach the Great Hall, they’ll be greeted by Grade II-listed building prestige, setting the tone for the grandeur that awaits.
Surrounded by awe-inspiring architecture, Central Hall Westminster provides an impressive setting for graduation ceremonies of any size. Assisted by our experienced events team, in-house production partner White Light, and catering team Green & Fortune, we’ll ensure that every aspect of your event is memorable.
Each year, we welcome over 100,000 graduates, with previous clients including:
- Brunel University
- Hult International Business School
- College of Optometrists
- Royal Veterinary College
Since experiencing a 64% increase in graduation events over the last six years, we now dedicate 24 days every year, often holding two or three ceremonies in one day.
Explore how our Central London graduation venue can host a variety of ceremony sizes, ranging from 500 to 2,000 graduates.
Multiple Graduation Ceremony Room Options
We have several spaces suitable for graduation ceremonies, as well as smaller spaces which can be used for graduates to change into their ceremonial caps and gowns.
Popular ceremony spaces include the Great Hall, Lecture Hall, and Library, which are favoured for their grand surroundings, expansive capacities and state-of-the-art AV facilities.
Post-ceremony, choose from our fantastic spaces for holding big receptions, or opt for a special private dining experience with delicious catering.
Large-Scale Ceremonies
Our flagship room is the Great Hall, perfect for large-scale graduation ceremonies of over 2,000 guests. This space is filled with stunning period features, including a self-supporting domed ceiling, original 4731-pipe Arthur Hill and Son organ, and a VIP balcony overlooking Westminster Abbey. The stage area is adaptable and can be extended to 60ft, with plenty of space for graduates to receive their awards. The Great Hall is blind-spot free, so no matter where guests are seated, they won’t miss seeing their fellow graduates picking up their diplomas.
Key features: Unique architecture • Self-supporting domed ceiling • Capacity of over 2,000 guests • Adaptable stage • Backstage dressing room • PA system
The Lecture Hall and Library are a great alternative for graduation ceremonies of up to 800 guests. These spaces can be used as one or divided into three interconnected rooms to accommodate simultaneous smaller graduation ceremonies. With customisable lighting, a built-in stage, natural daylight, and easy access from the foyer, the Lecture Room and Library provide a contemporary backdrop for ceremonies. They also work well for a post-ceremony reception, providing ample space for graduates to celebrate with their family, friends, and fellow graduates.
Key features: Capacity of up to 900 guests reception style • Advanced AV • Built-in stage • Natural daylight • Customisable lighting • Flexible wall partitions
Exceptional AV Facilities
To make sure graduates never miss out on any of the special moments, the Great Hall, Lecture Hall, and Library are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology. This includes a state-of-the-art PA system for exceptional sound, and floating screens and projectors for unobstructed views. Our production partner White Light can also offer exclusive lighting and stage options to complement each universities branding and personality. If some of your guests are unable to make it on the day, White Light offer seamless live-streaming options so they can still be involved in the celebrations.
Graduation Ceremony Catering
Each year, our onsite catering partner Green & Fortune prepares around 83,000 cups of post-graduation tea and over 110,000 reception nibbles, so you know you’ll be in safe hands. Green & Fortune provide an extensive range of catering options for the post-graduation reception. Choose from delicate nibbles and elegant canapés to hearty bowl food dishes and standing lunch options. Or, to celebrate in style, select a seasonal seated dinner option from our curated menus or build your own to mark this once-in-a-lifetime occasion. Complement your dining choices with refreshing mocktails, soft drinks, and wines sourced from independent suppliers.
Prime Westminster Location
Situated in one of the most prestigious locations in Central London, reaching Central Hall Westminster couldn’t be easier for your graduates.
Overlooking Westminster Abbey, Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, your graduation ceremony will be surrounded by historical architecture, certain to create a lasting impression. We are just a short walk from several underground and rail stations:
- Westminster station (Jubilee, Circle, and District lines) – 3-minute walk
- St James’ Park station (Circle and District lines) – 3-minute walk
- Victoria station (Victoria, Circle, and District lines) – 13-minute walk
- Victoria rail: 13-minute walk
- Charing Cross rail: 14-minute walk
- Waterloo rail: 18-minute walk
We are covered by several bus routes, with many of them passing directly outside our building. There are several public car parks located nearby on Abingdon Street, Horseferry Road, Rochester Row, and Semley Place. We can also be easily accessed from all London airports via express shuttle and rail services that travel into Central London.
Learn more about our graduation ceremony venue
To find out more about how Central Hall Westminster can accommodate your graduation event, reach out to our friendly team on 020 7222 8010 or fill in our enquiry form here.
