The OAH Story
French hospitality
French hospitality
in Tunbridge Wells
OAH brings together generous cooking, thoughtful service and ingredients inspired by the historic regions of France.
Founded
In the heart of Kent
The Venue
A house built for gathering
Once a place where people gathered for auctions, Old Auction House has long been at the centre of bringing people together. Today, it's home to our Brasserie & Bar, serving French-inspired comfort classics in a warm and welcoming setting — from relaxed dining to drinks, celebrations and private events.
Our Core Values
Simple, warm, seasonal
French-inspired comfort classics, good wines and a relaxed atmosphere — for daytime visits. Mon–Fri 8:30 am – 5 pm · Sat–Sun 9 am – 5 pm. Evening events are private, by prior arrangement only.
The Provenance
Imported from France
Cheese, charcuterie, wines and pantry favourites are selected to keep the restaurant rooted in French flavour.
Our Heritage
A family of artisans
Old Auction House is built on a passion for quality food and French artisan tradition.
Founders Florent Gacon and Roberto Espinoza, originally from the Franche-Comté region of France, come from families of farmers and craftsmen where food has always been at the heart of their life.
Over 15 years ago, they began their journey at Borough Market in London, introducing carefully selected French delicacies to the UK. Today, their import business The French Comté supplies restaurants, hotels, and markets across the country.
The Houses
From market stall to dining room
In 2021, they opened the Old Auction House in Tunbridge Wells, bringing together UK favourites and exceptional French ingredients, from cheeses and charcuterie to wines, all sourced directly from France.
That same year, they launched La Petite France, now with three locations across Wadhurst and Tunbridge Wells, offering everything from artisan breads and pastries to cheeses, meats, and wines to enjoy at home or in a relaxed café setting.
Above all, Old Auction House is a welcoming, family-friendly space, a place to gather, celebrate, and enjoy great food together.
The Kitchen
Seasonal French cooking using the finest local and imported produce.
The Floor
Friendly, attentive service that makes every guest feel like family.
The Events
Private hire and celebrations tailored to your unique requirements.
The Team
The faces behind OAH
TonyWaiter
CallumWaiter
MatisseWaiter
ArnorWaiter
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
All the answers in one place, across food, drinks, private celebrations, kids party, catering and private hire.
What are the restaurant opening hours? ▾
Mon–Fri 8:30 am – 5 pm · Sat–Sun 9 am – 5 pm. Please contact us for kitchen service times. Evenings are reserved for private events, by prior arrangement.
Do you cater for dietary requirements? ▾
Absolutely. We offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Please confirm any dietary requirements at least two weeks before your event. For private hire, all food, drinks and additional services must be confirmed at least four weeks before the event; discuss and agree dietary needs in advance.
Can we bring our own food? ▾
We do not allow personal catering, however feel free to share any bespoke requests with us, we will do our best to accommodate your needs. Birthday cakes are welcome. For private hire, all food and drinks must be supplied by OAH; a wedding or birthday cake requires prior approval.
Where do you source your ingredients? ▾
Key ingredients are imported directly from France, cheeses, charcuterie, wines and seasonal produce, with local suppliers for the rest.
Is the menu seasonal? ▾
Yes, the menu evolves with the seasons, with a strong French regional influence.
Do you have a wine list? ▾
Yes, an extensive list featuring imports from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne and more.
Can I bring my own wine? ▾
A corkage policy applies. Contact us for details before bringing your own bottle. For private hire, all drinks must be supplied by OAH; outside bottles are not permitted.
Do you offer non-alcoholic options? ▾
A full range of mocktails, soft drinks, fresh juices and hot drinks is available.
Are evening events open to the public? ▾
Evenings are reserved for private events, by prior arrangement.
How can I arrange a private celebration? ▾
Contact OAH to discuss your occasion and date, with at least one month's notice. An enquiry does not reserve a date. See our Private Hire page for venue hire information.
Which terms apply? ▾
Private Hire Terms & Conditions apply to private hire, with separate terms for birthdays under 25. Read the full Private Hire terms.
What is the minimum age? ▾
Our kids party packages are designed for children aged 3 and above.
Can we bring our own cake? ▾
Yes, plates and cutlery provided. Let us know in advance.
What add-ons can I rent? ▾
Red carpet, photo booth, floral arrangements and more. Ask our team for the full list.
What is the minimum number of guests? ▾
Best suited to medium and large events, contact us and we will advise based on your date, menu and location.
How far will you travel? ▾
Tunbridge Wells and nearby areas. Travel further afield may be available for an additional charge.
How far in advance should I book? ▾
We recommend at least 4–6 weeks in advance, especially for weddings and large corporate events.
These FAQs summarise our Private Hire Terms & Conditions. Birthdays under 25 are excluded and are subject to separate terms. Read the full Private Hire Terms & Conditions.
Can I hire the whole venue, and what does it cost? ▾
Yes. Exclusive private hire costs £750 from 6 pm until midnight, plus a minimum £500 food spend. It includes the entire venue and outside terrace, lounge seating, tables and chairs, guest facilities, access to the bar and catering services, venue preparation, the agreed room layout and cleaning afterwards.
How is my booking confirmed? ▾
An enquiry does not reserve or guarantee a date. OAH must confirm availability in writing, and you must pay the full, non-refundable £750 venue hire fee to secure the booking. The terms are provided before confirmation and payment; confirming and paying means you agree to them.
Is there a minimum food or drinks spend? ▾
A minimum £500 food spend applies to every private hire booking, in addition to the £750 venue hire fee, regardless of guest numbers. There is no minimum drinks spend.
When must pre-orders and balances be confirmed and paid? ▾
All food, drinks and additional services arranged through OAH must be confirmed at least 4 weeks before the event. The outstanding balance for pre-ordered food and additional services must be paid in full at least 3 weeks before the event.
What time can we arrive, and when does the event finish? ▾
Private hire runs from 6 pm until midnight. Earlier access from 5 pm for preparation may be arranged. Bar last orders and loud music finish at 11 pm; OAH provides background music until midnight. All guests must leave by midnight. Alternative timings may be discussed in advance and may incur additional charges.
What sound, lighting and screens are included? ▾
The hire fee includes the professional PA sound system, microphones and mixing table, professional lighting and lasers, smoke machine and disco ball. You can use our 5 large TV screens for slideshows, quizzes, presentations or themed images. Supply and agree all content and technical requirements in advance so OAH can support set-up.
Is professional security included? ▾
Yes. Professional security staff are included in the venue hire fee to help keep guests safe and the event running smoothly.
Can I bring my own DJ? ▾
No. All DJs must be booked through Old Auction House. Please contact OAH to discuss your requirements.
Can I arrange my own live band or performers? ▾
Only with OAH’s prior written approval. Live performances are permitted between 8 pm and 10 pm only. Bands and performers may use their own sound equipment, but it must be connected to OAH’s dB controller (sound limiter). All entertainment must meet OAH’s technical requirements, licensing conditions and agreed timings. OAH may adjust or pause it for safety, licensing compliance or the proper running of the event.
Can we play our own playlists or Spotify? ▾
Yes, through OAH’s in-house sound system. Playback and volume must be controlled using the remote control and dB controller supplied by OAH, within the agreed timings, technical requirements and licensing conditions.
Can we bring our own decorations? ▾
All major decorations, installations and event styling must be organised and hired through OAH. Smaller personal decorations, photographs and sentimental items need OAH’s prior approval. Share your ideas, colours, themes and inspiration images for a tailored styling proposal, with pricing agreed in advance.
Can we bring food, drinks or a cake? ▾
All food and drinks served or consumed at the event must be supplied by OAH. A wedding or birthday cake may be brought with OAH’s prior approval. Discuss and agree catering requirements, dietary needs and special arrangements with OAH in advance.
Can I postpone my event? ▾
The non-refundable venue hire payment may be transferred if OAH receives at least 3 months’ written notice before the original date. A transfer is allowed once only, subject to availability and OAH’s written confirmation. The new event must take place within 12 months of the original date, and you must pay any difference in venue hire pricing.
What happens to my payments if I cancel? ▾
The £750 venue hire payment is non-refundable. Any £500 food payment already made is refunded in full if OAH receives written cancellation notice at least 14 days before the event. With less than 14 days’ notice, the food payment is forfeited.
What conduct is expected of guests? ▾
OAH provides a safe, welcoming environment. Anyone behaving abusively, threateningly or in an unlawfully disruptive manner, or putting others’ safety at risk, may be refused entry or required to leave.
Who is responsible for damage? ▾
The client is responsible for reasonable costs of deliberate or negligent damage caused by them or their guests to furniture, fixtures, equipment or other venue property. Fair wear and tear is excluded. OAH will reasonably assess and document any damage for which payment is sought.
What if OAH cancels the booking? ▾
If OAH cancels for reasons within its control, all payments received, including any deposit, will be refunded, or you may choose another mutually agreed available date.
What if circumstances beyond OAH’s control affect the event? ▾
OAH is not liable for failures or delays genuinely beyond its reasonable control that could not have been avoided through reasonable care, such as severe weather, fire or government restrictions. OAH will notify you as soon as reasonably practicable and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Opening hours
Restaurant opening hours
Book a table
Monday8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Tuesday8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Thursday8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Friday8:30 am – 5:00 pm
Saturday9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sunday9:00 am – 5:00 pm
Evenings are reserved for private events, by prior arrangement. Please contact us for kitchen service times.
Come taste our story
French imports · Authentic flavours · Warm atmosphere
Book a Table
✕
Coming with a group?
Adults and children are welcome, including drinks-only visits. Guests may order food individually, and dishes need not arrive together.
For larger groups, please contact OAH to discuss seating and whether pre-orders are needed. Tell us about allergies, the number of adults, children and infants, and any requests for high chairs or space for prams. Availability must be discussed with our team.
FAQ
Book a Table
Frequently asked questions
✕
🍽 Food
🍷 Drinks
🎭 Private Celebrations
🎈 Kids Party
🥘 Catering
🏛 Private Hire
What are the restaurant opening hours? ▾
Mon–Fri 8:30 am – 5 pm · Sat–Sun 9 am – 5 pm. Please contact us for kitchen service times. Evenings are reserved for private events, by prior arrangement.
Do you cater for dietary requirements? ▾
Absolutely. We offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options. Please mention any allergies or dietary needs when booking.
Where do you source your ingredients? ▾
We import key ingredients directly from France, cheeses, charcuterie, wines and seasonal produce. Everything else is sourced from trusted local suppliers.
Is the menu seasonal? ▾
Yes, our menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest produce available, with a strong influence from French regional cuisine.
Do you have a wine list? ▾
Yes, we have an extensive wine list featuring French imports from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Champagne and more.
Can I bring my own wine? ▾
We have a corkage policy in place. Please contact us for details and pricing before bringing your own bottle. For private hire, all drinks must be supplied by OAH; outside bottles are not permitted.
Do you offer non-alcoholic options? ▾
Absolutely. We have a full range of mocktails, soft drinks, fresh juices, and hot drinks on our menu.
Are evening events open to the public? ▾
Evenings are reserved for private events, by prior arrangement.
How can I arrange a private celebration? ▾
Contact OAH to discuss your occasion and date, with at least one month's notice. An enquiry does not reserve a date. See our Private Hire page for venue hire information.
Which terms apply? ▾
Private Hire Terms & Conditions apply to private hire, with separate terms for birthdays under 25. Read the full Private Hire terms.
What is the minimum age? ▾
Our kids party packages are designed for children aged 3 and above.
Can we bring our own cake? ▾
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own cake. We can provide plates and cutlery for serving. Let us know in advance.
What add-ons can I rent? ▾
We offer red carpet, photo booth, floral arrangements, and more. Ask our team for a full list when booking.
What is the minimum number of guests? ▾
Our catering service is best suited to medium and large events. Contact us and we will advise based on your date, menu and location.
How far will you travel? ▾
We cover Tunbridge Wells and nearby areas. Travel outside Tunbridge Wells may be available with an additional charge.
How far in advance should I book? ▾
We recommend booking at least 4–6 weeks in advance, especially for weddings and large corporate events.
These FAQs summarise our Private Hire Terms & Conditions. Birthdays under 25 are excluded and are subject to separate terms. Read the full Private Hire Terms & Conditions.
Can I hire the whole venue, and what does it cost? ▾
Yes. Exclusive private hire costs £750 from 6 pm until midnight, plus a minimum £500 food spend. It includes the entire venue and outside terrace, lounge seating, tables and chairs, guest facilities, access to the bar and catering services, venue preparation, the agreed room layout and cleaning afterwards.
How is my booking confirmed? ▾
An enquiry does not reserve or guarantee a date. OAH must confirm availability in writing, and you must pay the full, non-refundable £750 venue hire fee to secure the booking. The terms are provided before confirmation and payment; confirming and paying means you agree to them.
Is there a minimum food or drinks spend? ▾
A minimum £500 food spend applies to every private hire booking, in addition to the £750 venue hire fee, regardless of guest numbers. There is no minimum drinks spend.
When must pre-orders and balances be confirmed and paid? ▾
All food, drinks and additional services arranged through OAH must be confirmed at least 4 weeks before the event. The outstanding balance for pre-ordered food and additional services must be paid in full at least 3 weeks before the event.
What time can we arrive, and when does the event finish? ▾
Private hire runs from 6 pm until midnight. Earlier access from 5 pm for preparation may be arranged. Bar last orders and loud music finish at 11 pm; OAH provides background music until midnight. All guests must leave by midnight. Alternative timings may be discussed in advance and may incur additional charges.
What sound, lighting and screens are included? ▾
The hire fee includes the professional PA sound system, microphones and mixing table, professional lighting and lasers, smoke machine and disco ball. You can use our 5 large TV screens for slideshows, quizzes, presentations or themed images. Supply and agree all content and technical requirements in advance so OAH can support set-up.
Is professional security included? ▾
Yes. Professional security staff are included in the venue hire fee to help keep guests safe and the event running smoothly.
Can I bring my own DJ? ▾
No. All DJs must be booked through Old Auction House. Please contact OAH to discuss your requirements.
Can I arrange my own live band or performers? ▾
Only with OAH’s prior written approval. Live performances are permitted between 8 pm and 10 pm only. Bands and performers may use their own sound equipment, but it must be connected to OAH’s dB controller (sound limiter). All entertainment must meet OAH’s technical requirements, licensing conditions and agreed timings. OAH may adjust or pause it for safety, licensing compliance or the proper running of the event.
Can we play our own playlists or Spotify? ▾
Yes, through OAH’s in-house sound system. Playback and volume must be controlled using the remote control and dB controller supplied by OAH, within the agreed timings, technical requirements and licensing conditions.
Can we bring our own decorations? ▾
All major decorations, installations and event styling must be organised and hired through OAH. Smaller personal decorations, photographs and sentimental items need OAH’s prior approval. Share your ideas, colours, themes and inspiration images for a tailored styling proposal, with pricing agreed in advance.
Can we bring food, drinks or a cake? ▾
All food and drinks served or consumed at the event must be supplied by OAH. A wedding or birthday cake may be brought with OAH’s prior approval. Discuss and agree catering requirements, dietary needs and special arrangements with OAH in advance.
Can I postpone my event? ▾
The non-refundable venue hire payment may be transferred if OAH receives at least 3 months’ written notice before the original date. A transfer is allowed once only, subject to availability and OAH’s written confirmation. The new event must take place within 12 months of the original date, and you must pay any difference in venue hire pricing.
What happens to my payments if I cancel? ▾
The £750 venue hire payment is non-refundable. Any £500 food payment already made is refunded in full if OAH receives written cancellation notice at least 14 days before the event. With less than 14 days’ notice, the food payment is forfeited.
What conduct is expected of guests? ▾
OAH provides a safe, welcoming environment. Anyone behaving abusively, threateningly or in an unlawfully disruptive manner, or putting others’ safety at risk, may be refused entry or required to leave.
Who is responsible for damage? ▾
The client is responsible for reasonable costs of deliberate or negligent damage caused by them or their guests to furniture, fixtures, equipment or other venue property. Fair wear and tear is excluded. OAH will reasonably assess and document any damage for which payment is sought.
What if OAH cancels the booking? ▾
If OAH cancels for reasons within its control, all payments received, including any deposit, will be refunded, or you may choose another mutually agreed available date.
What if circumstances beyond OAH’s control affect the event? ▾
OAH is not liable for failures or delays genuinely beyond its reasonable control that could not have been avoided through reasonable care, such as severe weather, fire or government restrictions. OAH will notify you as soon as reasonably practicable and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
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