An elegant, dignified funeral wake at the Empress Ballroom



Organising a funeral is a very difficult time for most people, with the process of preparing to say goodbye to a loved one amongst the toughest things many people will go through, but the wake is often the time when the bereaved will take an opportunity to celebrate the life of their lost loved one in an uplifting and joyous manner.

With our grand stage and PA system, plus projector and big screen, you and your guests are welcome to share memories in the form of pictures and videos, as well as via speeches.

The function should run as smoothly as possible during an obviously very emotional time, so our team will endeavour to cover every aspect of the wake for you, including providing hot or cold food for your guests, managing the day in a sensitive manner, to enable you to focus on reminiscing and sharing memories with your loved ones.

The Empress Ballroom is a large function space with ornate décor and original features from when the building was first built in the 1920s. It is capable of hosting up to 350 guests, with tables and chairs supplied as part of your booking, and a series of packages available, including:

Room Only – We will provide you with a space to do as you wish, whether you choose to bring buffet food or simply wish to use the space to gather and remember your loved one. We will open our fully licensed bar, to ensure your guests are refreshed throughout, and the PA and Projector are available for your use.

Room & Buffet – We will furnish the space and provide a hot or cold buffet of your choice according to the quantity of guests you expect. The licensed bar will be open for use throughout, and PA & Projector are available for use. This package is reserved for a minimum of 50 paid heads.

Room & Hot Meal – Our specialist team of caterers will provide you and your guests with a full sit-down meal, which will be served at a pre-agreed time and will also include table wine. The licensed bar will be open for service throughout, and the PA & Projector are available for use. This package is reserved for a minimum of 50 paid heads.

Our facilities include:

Licensed bar with reasonably prices drinks. White Linen tablecloths

Stage ideal for memorial tributes

Free Guest WI-FI

4m Big Screen with projector

PA sound and microphone

Dedicated disabled toilets

Baby change facility

Please contact our team to enquire about room availability on the date of the funeral as soon as you know the date, as the venue is in high demand and we would hate for you to be disappointed.

Download more information on catering and drinks packages:



Enquire Now