Most Asked Questions
CAN MY TICKET BE EXCHANGED, MODIFIED OR REFUNDED?
We consider all bookings to be confirmed and final at the time they are made. Tickets are fully refundable up to seven days in advance of the entry date and time. Transaction/Booking fees are non-refundable. Tickets are non-refundable if the event entry time and date is less than seven days at the time of request.
Ticket transfers and exchanges to other event dates are not possible however should your request to do this be up to seven days before the original event time and date, a full refund will be offered so you may book into your preferred event. For any other ticketing enquiries, please email support@universe.com.
I HAVE NOT RECEIVED MY EMAIL CONFIRMATION WITH MY TICKET. WHAT SHOULD I DO?
Your email confirmation with your ticket will be sent by email contact@caffeineandmachine.com. Please ensure this email is saved as a safe email address and you have not unsubscribed from receiving emails from us. Please also ensure that your email address is entered in correctly during the ticket buying process.
If you have not received your email confirmation with your ticket, please ensure you check your spam/junk inboxes in case your email provider has filtered the email there. If your email confirmation is not there, please email bowltickets@caffeineandmachine.com where one of the team will be able to help you.
IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE: THE BOWL ACCESSIBLE WITH A STROLLER OR WHEELCHAIR?
Yes – there is one level entrance to The Bowl and the ground floor is all on one level.
Please email thebowl@caffeineandmachine.com if you have any specific queries.
ARE ANY TICKET CONCESSIONS AVAILABLE?
Concessions are not available at this time. All tickets purchased are fully redeemable during your visit to The Bowl.
IS MY TICKET VALID FOR ANOTHER DAY?
Because tickets are purchased for a specific day and time slot, they will not be valid for entry on another day or time. This is to ensure we manage the number of visitors within The Bowl and to make the experience as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. We cannot guarantee access to the experience outside the entry time indicated on your ticket.
HOW MUCH TIME DO I NEED TO ENJOY THE CAFFEINE&MACHINE EXPERIENCE?
That’s really up to you! We encourage you to enjoy your visit to The Bowl at your own pace. You’re welcome to stay as long as you like but please be aware that your ticket is only valid for your original arrival time. Once scanned, your ticket will not be valid should you wish to leave and return again later on the same day.
IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?
Parental guidance is advised, and children must be accompanied by an adult during their visit. For the enjoyment of everyone, we ask that you always supervise your children to ensure their behaviour is considerate of other visitors and that they remain safe at all times due to the consistent movement of vehicles in and around The Bowl.
Tickets
DO I NEED TO PURCHASE A TICKET IN ADVANCE?
To guarantee your entry to The Bowl, we strongly recommend you book your vehicle ticket online in advance. There is a booking fee per ticket. You will then be able to redeem the full value of your ticket (less the booking fee) during your visit with us.
Should you not wish to pre-book a ticket, you are welcome to simply arrive on the day however please be aware that if we are at capacity at the time of your arrival, we will regretfully not be able to permit you entry.
WHERE CAN I BUY MY TICKETS?
Tickets are available through the Caffeine&Machine website. Our official ticketing partner is Universe.
CAN I BUY TICKETS AT THE VENUE?
No. Tickets are not available to buy at The Bowl. You are welcome to arrive without a ticket but to avoid disappointment, we strongly advise pre-booking a ticket. We also recommend checking our What’s On web page to make sure that we are open and not sold out for when you want to visit.
WHAT ARE THE TICKET OPTIONS?
Tickets are per vehicle to visit The Bowl rather than per person, unless specified. Each vehicle ticket covers the driver and all passengers within the vehicle. Each vehicle ticket permits entry on the booked event date and at the specific arrival time. Tickets can be purchased directly through our website. All prices are subject to change depending on availability and demand.
HOW DOES THE ARRIVAL SLOT SYSTEM WORK AND WHEN SHOULD I TURN UP?
When you purchase your ticket for your visit to The Bowl, you must also select a preferred time slot to arrive. This is to ensure we manage the number of visitors within the venue and make the experience as enjoyable and comfortable as possible by regulating the flow of guests at any one time.
The time slot you select in your booking is your arrival time to The Bowl; however you can enjoy Caffeine&Machine at your leisure. Stay as long as you like! You can arrive any time within 30-minutes either side of your arrival time slot. If you arrive very early for your booked time slot you may not be given entry. If you arrive late, our marshal team will do their best to fit you in, but this is not guaranteed.
ARE ANY TICKET CONCESSIONS AVAILABLE?
Concessions are not available at this time. All tickets purchased are fully redeemable during your visit to The Bowl.
DO YOU OFFER A DISCOUNT FOR DISABLED VISITORS OR THEIR CARERS?
Discounts are not available at this time. All tickets purchased are fully redeemable during your visit to The Bowl.
IS THERE A CLUB TICKET AVAILABLE?
If you’re planning to make a booking for a large group or club, please email clubtakeovers@caffeineandmachine.com to discuss your requirements.
CAN MY TICKET BE EXCHANGED, MODIFIED OR REFUNDED?
We consider all bookings to be confirmed and final at the time they are made. Tickets are fully refundable up to seven days in advance of the entry date and time. Transaction/Booking fees are non-refundable. Tickets are non-refundable if the event entry time and date is less than seven days at the time of request.
Ticket transfers and exchanges to other event dates are not possible however should your request to do this be up to seven days before the original event time and date, a full refund will be offered so you may book into your preferred event. For any other ticketing enquiries, please email support@universe.com.
IS MY TICKET VALID FOR ANOTHER DAY?
Because tickets are purchased for a specific day and time slot, they will not be valid for entry on another day or time. This is to ensure we manage the number of visitors within The Bowl and to make the experience as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. We cannot guarantee access to the experience outside the entry time indicated on your ticket.
HOW DO I REDEEM THE VALUE OF MY TICKET?
Within your ticket booking confirmation email, will be an e-voucher QR code. This e-voucher can be spent in three ways:
- Inside our restaurant, please present your QR code to a team member who will scan this for you. The money will be deducted from your food and drink bill.
- Outside in our Yard, please scan the table QR code to order your food. At checkout, please type in the e-voucher code within your email to add this credit to your total to pay.
- Inside our COM store, please present your QR code to a team member who will scan this for you. The money will be deducted from your total to pay for your COM items.
Your e-voucher is only valid during your booked visit to The Bowl and cannot be used thereafter.
WHEN WILL TICKETS BE RELEASED FOR FUTURE EVENTS?
Events are released at regular intervals on our website. Please sign up to our newsletter HERE to be the first to hear when future dates are released.
CAN I BOOK IF I AM NOT IN THE UK?
Yes, you can book tickets to visit The Bowl from outside the UK from our What’s On webpage.
Your Visit
WHERE IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE: THE BOWL?
The Bowl is located around an hour north of London, just outside an incredibly pretty little Bedfordshire town called Ampthill.
OUR ADDRESS:
Caffeine&Machine: The Bowl
Ampthill Road
Houghton Conquest
Bedfordshire MK45 3JP
This is the what3words address for The Bowl:
///known.plodding.piston
WHAT ARE THE BOWL’S OPENING TIMES?
For The Bowl’s up to date opening times, please visit our website.
HOW MUCH TIME DO I NEED TO ENJOY THE CAFFEINE&MACHINE EXPERIENCE?
That’s really up to you! We encourage you to enjoy your visit to The Bowl at your own pace. You’re welcome to stay as long as you like but please be aware that your ticket is only valid for your original arrival time. Once scanned, your ticket will not be valid should you wish to leave and return again later on the same day.
IS THERE SEATING AT CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Yes, there are plenty of seating options available. We have a large restaurant dining area and a lounge area inside The Bowl to choose from as well as plenty of picnic bench options outside too!
CAN I EAT OR DRINK AT CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Yes, we have a delicious range of dishes available to purchase from our Breakfast, All Day, Cadets (children under 12) and Yard Snacks menu. We offer a wide range of hot drinks (and iced version too!) and we have two fully stocked bars at The Bowl serving a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Please note, no outside food or drink is permitted to be consumed at Caffeine&Machine.
CAN I BOOK A TABLE IN THE RESTAURANT?
Yes, absolutely. Please click HERE to reserve your table with us.
IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?
Parental guidance is advised, and children must be accompanied by an adult during their visit. For the enjoyment of everyone, we ask that you always supervise your children to ensure their behaviour is considerate of other visitors and that they remain safe at all times due to the consistent movement of vehicles in and around The Bowl.
IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE: THE BOWL ACCESSIBLE WITH A STROLLER OR WHEELCHAIR?
Yes – there is one level entrance to The Bowl and the ground floor is all on one level.
Please email thebowl@caffeineandmachine.com if you have any specific queries.
IS STROBE LIGHTING USED?
No, we don’t use strobe lighting in any area of The Bowl. We often have multi-coloured spotlights switched on but these do not flash or strobe.
IS THERE LOUD MUSIC PLAYING?
There will be music playing at The Bowl and the genres of music depend on the theme of the event, but the music is played at an ambient volume designed to be background music unless otherwise specified.
CAN I TAKE PHOTOS AND VIDEOS?
As long as you don’t intend to use them for commercial use, you’re welcome to take as many photos and videos during your visit to Caffeine&Machine as you wish. We do ask, however, that you show consideration for other visitors when you’re taking them. If you’re posting images and comments on social media, please tag us @caffeineandmachine or use the hashtag #caffeineandmachine.
CAN I TOUCH THE VEHICLES?
Please do not touch the vehicles at The Bowl during your visit. The vehicles belong to other visiting guests or are display vehicles loaned to Caffeine&Machine for your enjoyment.
CAN I SMOKE AT CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Caffeine&Machine is a no smoking venue throughout the inside of the building. This includes e-cigarettes/vapes. You are permitted to smoke outside in the Yard but please be mindful of the safety and comfort of other visitors.
CAN I BRING MY DOG TO CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Absolutely! We welcome all well-behaved animals both throughout the entire grounds of The Bowl as well as throughout the ground floor inside of the building as well. We offer puppuccinos and a range of doggy treats and accessories within our COM retail store.
CAN I STAY OVERNIGHT AT CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Yes, you can! The Bowl does not have any accommodation options however Caffeine&Machine: The Hill in Warwickshire has seven cosy and warmly decorated bedrooms to choose from. Please visit our Stay With Us webpage HERE. You are guaranteed entry to all events taking place at The Bowl during your stay too, without the need to book any tickets.
CAN I BE DROPPED OFF BY TAXI?
Yes – Licensed taxis may drop off outside the entrance of The Bowl. A ticket is not required if the taxi drops you off and leaves straight away.
Accessibility
IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE: THE BOWL ACCESSIBLE WITH A STROLLER OR WHEELCHAIR?
Yes – there is one level entrance to The Bowl and the ground floor is all on one level.
Please email thebowl@caffeineandmachine.com if you have any specific queries.
WHAT FACILITIES DO YOU PROVIDE?
Accessible Toilet – We have fully accessible toilet which is located adjacent to the restaurant and can be accessed from either the bar or restaurant areas at The Bowl. These toilets also offer plenty of room for carers.
Baby Changing Facilities – We have baby changing facilities within the accessible toilet room, which is fully all accessible with a pushchair or stroller.
DO YOU HAVE HOISTS OR CHANGING BEDS AVAILABLE?
While our accessible toilets are step-free and designed for wheelchair users, please note that we do not currently have hoists or changing beds on site.
WHERE IS THE CLOSEST DISABLED PARKING BAY?
Upon arrival to The Bowl, please do let a marshal know if you have specific parking requirements and they will do everything they can to park you appropriately for your needs.
DO YOU OFFER A DISCOUNT FOR DISABLED VISITORS OR THEIR CARERS?
Discounts are not available at this time. All tickets purchased are fully redeemable during your visit to The Bowl.
DOES CAFFEINE&MACHINE HAVE AN AGE LIMIT?
No however parental guidance is advised, and children must be accompanied by an adult during their visit. For the enjoyment of everyone, we ask that you always supervise your children to ensure their behaviour is considerate of other visitors and that they remain safe at all times due to the consistent movement of vehicles in and around The Bowl.
CAN I BRING MY DOG TO CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Absolutely! We welcome all well-behaved animals both throughout the entire grounds of The Bowl as well as throughout the ground floor inside of the building as well. We offer puppuccinos and a range of doggy treats and accessories within our COM retail store.
ARE THERE TIMES WHEN CAFFEINE&MACHINE WILL BE LESS BUSY AS I DON'T LIKE LARGE GROUPS OF PEOPLE?
Day time during the weekdays and the later entry times during the weekends are likely to be the quietest, but can still get quite busy at times, especially during the holiday periods.
WILL THERE BE STAFF ON HAND TO ASSIST ME?
Yes – The Bowl team will be on hand if you need assistance. Do just let them know what you might need, and they will do all they can to assist you. Should you have any questions or enquiries before your visit, please email thebowl@caffeineandmachine.com
Family
IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE SUITABLE FOR CHILDREN?
Parental guidance is advised, and children must be accompanied by an adult during their visit. For the enjoyment of everyone, we ask that you always supervise your children to ensure their behaviour is considerate of other visitors and that they remain safe at all times due to the consistent movement of vehicles in and around The Bowl.
IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE: THE BOWL ACCESSIBLE WITH A STROLLER OR WHEELCHAIR?
Yes – there is one level entrance to The Bowl and the ground floor is all on one level.
Please email thebowl@caffeineandmachine.com if you have any specific queries.
DO YOU HAVE BABY CHANGING FACILITIES?
We have baby changing facilities within the accessible toilet room, which is fully all accessible with a pushchair or stroller.
IS STROBE LIGHTING USED?
No, we don’t use strobe lighting in any area of The Bowl. We often have multi-coloured spotlights switched on but these do not flash or strobe.
IS THERE LOUD MUSIC PLAYING?
There will be music playing at The Bowl and the genres of music depend on the theme of the event, but the music is played at an ambient volume designed to be background music unless otherwise specified.
What to Expect
WHAT IS CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Caffeine&Machine exists, first and foremost, as a brand that caters to everyone with a love for things that move. From first cars to hyper cars, spotless classics to superbikes, microcars to trucks, there’s a place for it at Caffeine&Machine. We seek to break down barriers, encourage conversation and discovery, and above all else, worship at the altar of the Cult of Machine (COM) – the amazing community that we’ve built up and that continues to grow every day.
Our physical spaces are designed to be all things to all people – they’re a place to enjoy wonderful food and drink, soak up an ever-eclectic display of brilliant machinery, and above all else, come be around friends, whether they’re ones you’ve known for years or ones you didn’t know you had yet.
Everything we do is driven by four key things: community, conversation, inclusion and adventure. We want our community to be respectful, open-minded, and always willing to explore new ideas and subcultures. As long as you ascribe to these values, there’s a place for you at Caffeine&Machine, and in the Cult of Machine.
Restaurant and COM Retail Store
WHAT ELSE IS AT CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Everything we do at Caffeine&Machine is about making your day as enjoyable as possible. So, as well as the vast grounds of The Bowl filled with all things machinery, there’s a restaurant where you can enjoy a rest and refreshment. Definitely come hungry! Two fully stocked bars serving a vast range of alcoholic and soft drinks and also an array of hot drinks (as well as iced too!). There’s also a Cult of Machine (COM) retail store within The Bowl with a specially curated range of Caffeine&Machine and Cult of Machine clothing, accessories, gifts and art that is currently only available to purchase either in person at the venue or via our website.
WHAT FOOD IS AVAILABLE IN THE RESTAURANT AT CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Our restaurant opens first thing, serving a delicious choice of breakfasts and coffees. Our all-day menu kicks in from 11am with something tasty for everyone. We have a Cadets menu for our drivers under 12, and a Yard Snacks and Drinks menu showcasing a tempting range of snacks, cocktails, mocktails, refreshing drinks and of course our hot drinks too. The full menu range is available on the Food and Drink page of our website.
HOW DOES CAFFEINE&MACHINE DEAL WITH ALLERGIES?
All our food is prepared in a kitchen where nuts, gluten and other known allergens may be present. If you have a food allergy, intolerance, or a coeliac disease, please speak to a team member about the ingredients in your food and drink before you order. Where possible we will cater to individual dietary requirements, so when you arrive, please ensure you mention your requirements to our team.
CAN I ORDER FOOD AND DRINKS ONLINE?
Yes! You will be able to choose from a variety of food options by scanning the QR code on each outside table at The Bowl. Remember that once you have pre-booked your vehicle ticket to visit us, an e-voucher will be emailed to you along with your Caffeine&Machine ticket, loaded with the face value of your ticket (less booking fees). You can then use this e-voucher to discount your online food order by entering the code during the checkout process. Please note that our kitchen closes one hour prior to The Bowl closing each night.
CAN I EAT OR DRINK AT CAFFEINE&MACHINE?
Yes, we have a delicious range of dishes available to purchase from our Breakfast, All Day, Cadets (children under 12) and Yard Snacks menu. We offer a wide range of hot drinks (and iced version too!) and we have two fully stocked bars at The Bowl serving a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Please note, no outside food or drink is permitted to be consumed at Caffeine&Machine.
IS THE COM RETAIL STORE ACCESSIBLE?
The COM store is accessible for wheelchair users via the main entrance of The Bowl. Please do speak to a member of the team should you have any requirements or email thebowl@caffeineandmachine.com
CAN I PURCHASE FROM THE COM RETAIL STORE ONLINE?
Absolutely! Please click HERE to visit our online store.
WHAT IS THE COM RETAIL STORE REFUND POLICY?
Our Refund Policy can be found HERE.
Other
CAN CAFFEINE&MACHINE BE HIRED FOR A PRIVATE EVENT?
It sure can! Please visit our dedicated web page for more details HERE.
CAN I PURCHASE A CAFFEINE&MACHINE GIFT CARD?
Yes, Caffeine&Machine gift cards can be purchased by clicking HERE. Whether stopping by for a morning coffee to soak in the atmosphere, a road-trip feast, or a delicious cocktail, our gift cards can be spent at any of our Caffeine&Machine venues and also online HERE.
WHO DO I CONTACT FOR HELP OR TO GIVE FEEDBACK ON THE SERVICE THAT I HAVE RECEIVED?
Please send an email to contact@caffeineandmachine.com for any help or feedback relating to your visit to The Bowl or call us on 0207 555 4240.
PARTNERSHIP ENQUIRIES
For all partnership enquiries, please submit an enquiry on our Partnerships page HERE.