The Lord Leycester, in the center of Warwick, is a medieval timber-framed complex founded in 1571 by Robert Dudley and run by a charity that is a home for veterans. It hires out several spaces for private and corporate dining, black-tie dinners, wedding receptions, blessings and celebrations. The Great Hall seats 65, the Guildhall 60 and the Master's Dining Room 14, with drinks for 100 in the courtyard or garden.
Seminars and company events
The venue page welcomes enquiries for private and corporate dining, concerts, drinks receptions and other private functions. The Great Hall is the principal space for private dining and larger events, suited to formal dinners, black-tie events, corporate hospitality and special celebrations. The Master's Dining Room, in the historic Master's House, serves executive dining and small celebrations for up to 14.
The Guildhall, a 14th-century timber-framed room once used as a meeting place, holds up to 60 guests and has a lift. Spaces can be hired individually or combined, and a medieval courtyard or the Master's Garden can open an event with a drinks reception before guests move indoors for dinner.
Weddings and receptions
Wedding receptions, wedding breakfasts and blessings are listed. The Great Hall suits a wedding breakfast for up to 65 seated, and the Chapel of St James, dating from the 12th century and standing above Warwick's West Gate, offers an intimate setting. The courtyard works well as the start of a larger event, and the garden for summer gatherings, with a wet-weather option advised.
Rooms and capacities
Great Hall: up to 65 seated, fully accessible, with timber roof. Master's Dining Room: up to 14 seated, limited accessibility. Guildhall: up to 60, lift access. Medieval courtyard: up to 100 for drinks, paved areas. Master's Garden: up to 100 for drinks, step-free access. Chapel of St James: intimate, 12th century.
Accommodation
The pages provided list no accommodation. Guests stay in Warwick.
Catering
Catering is provided exclusively by the in-house team, with menus from drinks and canapes to formal seated dinners, charged separately from venue hire. The Great Hall can be dressed with tablecloths, cloth napkins, chair covers, candelabras and candles for an additional fee.
History and setting
The Lord Leycester Hospital was founded by Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester, in 1571. The Brethren, who are veterans, lead guided tours. The Great Hall has a magnificent timber roof and a long history of hospitality.
Getting there
The site is in the heart of Warwick, with a Getting Here page on the website. The Chapel of St James stands above Warwick's West Gate.
