The Lock Hospitality Critic Review
Introduction
The Lock is a premium restaurant in Twickenham new East Stand, where the menu and cuisine are overseen by Michelin-starred chef, Tom Kerridge. This large facility, with a capacity of some 1,200 guests, is split into two restaurants, Lock 4 & Lock 5, with a central kitchen dividing the two.
Location
The restaurant is situated on Level 3 of the new East Stand. It is a more open restaurant than the East Wing, which sits above it. It can therefore easily accommodate large round tables, often associated with more traditional corporate entertaining. The restaurant enjoys twin aspect views, with Twickenham’s pitch on one side and the west London skyline on the other, however, the main dining area does not overlook the pitch. The restaurant is flooded with natural light as it is dominated by glass windows the entire length of the restaurant.
Facility/Décor
Décor is more in line with a traditional hospitality suite and there are several ornate chandeliers, which hide the industrial ceiling (heating & air-conditioning ducts), which seems to be a fashionable design feature nowadays. There is parquet flooring, which gives it an elegant and luxurious feel, and the fixed bars are also an attractive feature in both Lock restaurants.
Private Tables & Private Suites
Private tables are available for 2-12 guests. Expect to pay a significant surcharge if you want to overlook Twickenham’s hallowed turf, which comes in the form of semi-private booths (separated by delicate voile curtains). Whilst in the main restaurant your views will be of the West London skyline.
Extras
A souvenir match programme is included.
Sample food on offer
Admission
The tickets provided within The Lock are very good, situated in the East Lower Stand between the Try Line and the 22m. You have direct access to the seats from the restaurant.
Catering
The facility opens 3.5 hrs before kick-off. You will enjoy a 4-course English inspired menu, designed in conjunction with 2-Michelin starred chef, Tom Kerridge. Twickenham Tea is served post-match.
Drinks
There is a complimentary bar, which includes Champagne & cocktails throughout the day. Real ales, Guinness and premium lager & spirits are available, and the wines are selected by the sommelier. Half-time drinks are able to be served in the restaurant due to its close proximity to the match seats. The bar closes 90 minutes after the match has ended.
Service
There is a hostess service, which enhances the drinks service.
Entertainment
In the main dining area, you will be entertained by a Q&A with previous rugby legends. It is not practical to have a speaker in the pitch-facing booths, where a rugby ambassador will walk around the tables.
Audio-Visual
There are a few TV screens in the restaurant to view other matches but certainly not enough that all guests have a view.
Car Parking
There are no car park passes included in this package, which means guests will have to use public transport, taxis, or source parking themselves in the Twickenham area.
Ratings
Understand our scoring
77 / 100
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| Total | 77/100 |
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Paul Terry (62)
Hospitality Critic Reviewer
