Searcys adds Gray’s Inn to its London portfolio

Searcys, one of the UK’s oldest event caterers, has welcomed Gray’s Inn to its portfolio of London venues.

The group will be providing its catering services as a partner at The Honourable Society of Gray’s Inn from January 2025.

Gray’s Inn has a rich history dating back to the 14th Century. The inn has been home to lawyers since before 1388 and is today one of the four Inns of Court responsible for the education and training of barristers before and after their Call to the Bar.

During the 16th Century, Queen Elizabeth I herself was a patron and William Shakespeare played in Gray’s Inn Hall where his patron, Lord Southampton, was also a member.

Gray’s Inn is situated just off Chancery Lane in Holborn, and offers event spaces, available for a wide range of corporate and private events all year round.

The venue hosts a wide array of guests, from student, barrister and judicial members to benchers (the Inn’s senior members), and commercial private and corporate event clients.

Searcys have considered its offers and experiences that will “appeal to such a wide group of customers”.

The new menus are carefully curated by Searcys executive chef Richard Oxley, respectful of the purpose of each event and the anticipated audience from education events to guest nights.

They have been designed with Searcy’s belief and standard of “Food with Finesse”, a celebration of fresh British ingredients and reimagined classic dishes, cakes, sandwiches and salads.

Dishes include Smoked Salmon from London Smoke and Cure, its own label English sparkling wine from Greyfriars Vineyard and Notes Coffee, roasted by a boutique company in East London.
Additionally, Hall Lunches are an integral part in bringing the membership of Gray’s Inn together. Searcys will provide catering for the Hall Lunches in a traditional buffet style with a range of hot dishes.

The Bridge Bar is also set to become a hub of activity with a refreshed menu featuring “value-driven” offers and tailored menus and a new drinks selection.

It will also feature events hosted by Searcys’ head of Champagne and Wine and Searcys’ executive chefs, with English sparkling wine and Cocktail evenings.

During the summer months, Searcys will fully embrace the potential of Gray’s Inn’s outdoor marque, with the launch of a seasonal party menu. It will also look to leverage the venue’s outdoor space as a growth opportunity for hosting summer parties, weddings and other special occasions.

Paul Jackson, managing director at Searcys, said: “We are proud to partner with Gray’s Inn and are excited to introduce Searcy’s hospitality to Chancery Lane. We look forward to welcoming you in the New Year.”