Toni, Author at EDGE Venues

18th December 20233rd January 2024

6 International MICE Industry Events You Can Reach Within 24 Hours By Train in 2024

Berlin for ITB Berlin, 5-7th March 2024

ITB, the travel industry conference, offers three days of keynotes, panel discussions, best practice examples and expert interviews. It brings you awards on areas such as travel technology, marketing, future travel, sustainability, social responsibility, future work, and more.

At ITB, top speakers from global travel discuss international trends and new topics, and provide guidance and clear perspectives.

The fastest trains from London to Berlin takes around 8 hours and 50 minutes. It covers a distance of approximately 930 kilometres.

Frankfurt for IMEX Frankfurt, 14-16th May 2024

IMEX Frankfurt is where the global meetings, events, and incentive travel industry comes together. It’s largest annual trade show of its kind in Europe. 3,800-plus global meeting planners connect with 2,900 suppliers from across the world, building powerful working relationships.

You can walk through the world in a day at IMEX. Immerse yourself in new industry developments and ideas, and find yourself at the heart of the global business events community.

The fastest trains from London to Frankfurt am Main take around 5 hours and 15 minutes, covering a distance of approximately 636 kilometres.

Lisbon for m&i Forum, 25-28th August 2024

From 1-2-1 meetings and destinations to a jam-packed social schedule, this is a chance to meet top buyers and global suppliers.

M&I chose Lisbon as it brings a touch of class to the MICE industry. Lisbon’s Congress Centre, with 29,000 sq. m of event space is in beautiful Belém, an iconic neighbourhood. It also conveniently sits 7km from the nearest international airport.

Faster trains from London to Lisbon take around 21 hours and 59 minutes, covering approximately 1,590 kilometres.

Prague for ALTS MICE Prague 2024, 24th October 2024

ALTS MICE Prague 2024 will have the most influential travel designers specialising in the MICE industry. Unlike a regular 2-day ALTS event with structured networking sessions, ALTS MICE is a one-evening-only event with 15+ free-flow meetings. The event promises a genuine and relaxed way to enjoy upscale meetings.

It’s easy to travel from London to Prague by train. From 25th March 2024 you can take an afternoon Eurostar from London to Brussels, then the European Sleeper direct from Brussels to Prague. Imagine yourself in a cosy couchette or sleeper!

Venice for MICE Trade Show, 13-15th November 2024

The MICE Trade Show caters to B2B meetings in the MICE industry. It is more than a traditional workshop and more personalised than a normal trade show. The event allows buyers and sellers to meet on a more in-depth and effective level.

The 2024 show will take place in The St Regis Venice Hotel, Hotel Monaco & Grand Central and Hotel Metropole.

The fastest trains from London to Venice take around 12 hours and 50 minutes. Travellers on the route will cover a distance of approximately 1,137 kilometres.

Barcelona for IBTM, 19th-21st November 2024

IBTM World is the leading global event for the meetings, incentives, conferences, and events industry, taking place annually in Barcelona. The event’s main goal is to inspire the events world to deliver exceptional experiences for their customers.

The event brings together global meetings industry people with a common purpose – creating better results for their organisation.

Attendees can make face-to-face connections with the right people, gain key industry insight and network over three days.

The fastest trains from London to Barcelona take around 9 hours and 54 minutes. You cover a distance of approximately 1,141 kilometres on these trains.

Ready to plan your next event? Search from thousands of venues right here at EDGE Venues.

13th November 202313th November 2023

Venues with private dining experiences

Join us as we look at our favourite venues with private dining experiences. From intimate candlelit affairs to grand banquets, these venues with private dining experiences promise to leave guests amazed and desperate to return!

Venues with private dining: our picks

So, let’s run down our top picks for venue restaurants and private dining experiences:

30 Euston Square

30 Euston Square makes an ideal venue for those wanting to explore London – either by walking or hiring a bike from the nearby docking stations. A wide variety of attractions are nearby including the Bloomsbury Theatre and Regent’s Park, home of London Zoo, Camden Market, Madame Tussauds, and Oxford Circus are all within a 20-minute walk of the venue.

Their flexible spaces are perfect for varying styles of dining events. Whether you are hosting an awards dinner for one hundred or a client dinner of eight, their spaces are perfectly suited to banquets, birthdays, and celebrations alike.

30 Euston Square’s experienced Searcys chefs strive to uphold the standards as one of London’s leading hospitality providers. They update dining menus monthly and use only the freshest seasonal ingredients.

Brooklands Hotel

Brooklands Hotel is within the legendary Brooklands motor racing circuit, adjacent to Mercedes Benz World. The A3, the M3 and M25 are all minutes away. The hotel has the world’s most historic motor racing track running through the reception. The conference facilities are contemporary and enhanced by food from a critically acclaimed chef.

In addition to its award-winning 1907 restaurant, bar, and grill, Brooklands Hotel is home to a collection of nine private dining rooms with fantastic banqueting facilities. Their event space has a private entrance as well as a spacious bar and lobby area, and the team can cater for up to two hundred guests for a drink reception.

Treehouse London

True to its iconic location, Treehouse London is the gateway to everything British. Take in the landscape of London Town from above at their rooftop oasis offering world-class views of the London Eye, The Shard, Canary Wharf, and Regent’s Park.

This is the perfect place for private meetings of up to twenty, receptions for up to three hundred guests, or banqueting for up to 120.

Belton Woods

Near Grantham, Belton Woods is a beautifully appointed hotel set in 475 acres of tranquil Lincolnshire countryside. With ten purpose-built conference and meeting rooms, the hotel can accommodate 10-245 guests.

In addition, a wide range of corporate entertainment is available, from casinos to quad biking and team-building events. Corporate entertainment is also available, from quad biking to archery and team-building events.

Belton Woods has elegant rooms and a selection of mouth-watering menus to choose from for private dining. It offers a large terrace that opens in the summer months for eating, drinking, and relaxing. And delegates can do all that while taking in panoramic views of the stunning golf courses – a great spot for a memorable dining experience.

The Dilly

Located in the heart of central London, The Dilly on Piccadilly offers everything you may want to do in London. With a rich history dating back to Edwardian times, this venue offers, not only urban chic but the historical references.

Stylishly furnished, the luxurious rooms at The Dilly feature private bathrooms with bathrobes and cosy slippers. The Dilly is just a 10-minute walk from the shops of Oxford Street and Bond Street, while Piccadilly Circus is less than a 5-minute walk.

Forest Pines Hotel, Spa & Golf

Forest Pines is a luxury 4-star golf and country club hotel set within its own 190 acres of woodland. The hotel is one of the region’s premier hotels with extensive facilities. It has 188 luxury ensuite bedrooms and nine conference suites which can cater for up to 375 delegates. The hotel has an 18-metre swimming pool, gymnasium, and spa, and a 27-hole Championship golf course.

If you have a special business occasion to celebrate or an important meeting to organise, Forest Pines Hotel, Spa & Golf Resort has the resources to deliver an exceptional event in their one AA rosette Eighteen 57 Restaurant. Choose from an extensive range of event spaces to make sure that you and your guests are satisfied.

Lea Marston Hotel

Lea Marston is a delightful modern 4-star hotel. The location, coupled with its extensive conference and event facilities, makes it a perfect central meeting point.

With twelve adaptable conference and event rooms to choose from – 7 conference rooms and four syndicate rooms – along with substantial breakout space, they have room to accommodate from 2-120 delegates.

The hotel offers onsite team-building opportunities – from the driving range, pitch, and putt or a competitive 9-hole course for golf lovers. And it has outdoor spaces available for hire. The hotel offers eighty-four contemporary-style bedrooms for residential guests, all with plasma screen televisions and free Wi-Fi access.

The Adderley Restaurant offers a stylish contemporary dining atmosphere, whilst Hathaway’s is a gastro-style pub in a rustic setting with exposed beams and open fireplaces.

Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa

Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf, and Spa are set in 1,065 acres of parkland. The hotel is a mile from the M1 (J10A) and thirty miles from central London. It is a 10-minute car journey from Luton International Airport. There is complimentary parking available onsite.

Warren Weir, the hotel’s stunning waterside events village, is the ideal setting for a private banquet, celebration, wedding, or corporate event for up to three hundred guests.

The function building includes five dedicated event suites, a bar, leisure facilities including a gym, swimming pool, and snooker room as well as eighty-four bedrooms. Surrounded by a vast area of parkland, you have an array of options available for your event. The team at Warren Weir has a selection of great external suppliers that can cater to Asian, Kosher, Greek, and much more.

With exclusive use of the function suites and kitchens, you have everything you need at Luton Hoo.

Moonfleet Manor

Moonfleet Manor benefits from excellent corporate facilities making it one of the finest of conference hotels in Weymouth. It has a range of training rooms from larger rooms to accommodate sixty delegates, to a small, intimate meeting room for eight delegates. Once the business is over, take advantage of the hotel’s thirty-six bedrooms, restaurant, and spa.

For a more intimate experience, why not try The Swan, Moonfleet’s private dining room? Whether it is an intimate private dining experience or a lunchtime meeting, the team will help create a memorable experience. The Swan overlooks the gorgeous Chesil Beach and can host ten delegates.

Oatlands Park

The Oatlands Park Hotel is a privately owned historic country house that became a hotel in 1856. It is set within acres of picturesque parkland, overlooking Broadwater Lake.

The hotel comprises 144 individually furnished luxurious bedrooms, with a choice of five standards of room. Conference facilities are available in any one of seven rooms and suites. The largest has capacity for up to four hundred delegates theatre style.

With sweeping lawns, high ceilings, and delicious menus, Oatlands Park is a breathtaking setting for special occasions, parties, and private dinners in Surrey.

From Champagne receptions to tasty three-course meals, the team can help to plan your perfect party menu. The talented Head Chef can suggest an array of menus. Or you can go bespoke, rest assured that all the dishes use the finest locally sourced ingredients.

Interested in the above venues with private dining for your meeting or event? Follow the links in the feature to book.

To find out more, check out EDGEVenues.com

13th October 202313th October 2023

Meetings in Glasgow: Our top venue picks

If you’ve thought about hosting events or meetings in Glasgow, we’d like to share more about the city, plus our top venue picks.

Like many cities, at the centre of Glasgow is a river. From its source in Leadhills to the southeast, the Clyde flows down through the old mill towns of Lanarkshire, widening as it flows past the sites of the shipyards which put Glasgow on the map.

A sharp turn and the Clyde is on its final stretch past the quaintly pretty seaside towns of Largs, Dunoon, and Rothesay where Glaswegians go to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Clyde is a huge part of Glasgow’s history and the reason why it is such a popular city. Looking forward to the modern day, Glasgow has held many mega-events such as the 2014 Commonwealth Games, and COP26 in 2021.

These events brought masses of important people to Glasgow and increased its profile as an event destination. So, here are some of our favourite venues in Glasgow:

Venues for Events and Meetings in Glasgow

Voco Grand Central Glasgow

Right in the heart of Glasgow is the outstanding voco Grand Central Glasgow. It offers a stunning setting for an intimate private dining experience or an extravagant party for up to 400 guests. Each space offers its character and style – simply choose what works best for you. The Grand Room is one example of a true showstopper space! It blends rich architecture with 21st-century touches.

voco Grand Central Glasgow offers a warm, unstuffy, and modern place for you to host your meeting. It allows you to focus on the big picture, while the venue team takes care of the details. Your guests will enjoy getting to know each other and learning in an unpretentious and inspirational setting.

thestudioglasgow

The Studio is in central Glasgow. It’s less than one minute’s walk from Glasgow Central Station and within easy reach of the public transport network. There is direct road access to the venue and the venue has preferential rates with the two nearest NCP car parks.

thestudioglasgow has 6 vibrant spaces and panoramic views on offer in their 8th and 9th-floor venue. The 9th floor is an exclusive use space for up to 260 guests. A fantastic spacious private area to dine, exhibit, or network!

Radisson Blu Glasgow

Radisson Blu Glasgow is in the heart of the city, minutes from the Financial District. Facilities include 247 stylish bedrooms. The rooms include 20 business class, 12 spacious junior suites, three luxurious corner suites, and the apartment. Room styles vary between Nordic, City and Modern styles. All rooms have individual climate control and personal bars, iron, and ironing board, personal safe, bathrobe and slippers.

The hotel boasts Collage Restaurant and two bars – Atrium and Collage Corner Bar. There’s a health club with 15m indoor pool, fitness and spin studios, gym, sauna, and Jacuzzi, plus treatment rooms. The property also has 17 rooms for events and meetings in Glasgow. The largest measures up at 582m2. An additional 14 breakout rooms are also available for any smaller meetings.

DoubleTree by Hilton Glasgow Westerwood

The Doubletree by Hilton Glasgow Westerwood Hotel sits on 400 acres of beautiful countryside by the Campsie Hills, 12 miles north of Glasgow’s centre.

Aside from the stunning backdrop and enviable 18-hole golf course, the Westerwood is an ideal conference and meeting venue. Its self-contained conference centre holds up to 400 for a conference and 300 for a dinner dance. And the hotel has 148 contemporary-styled bedrooms.

Interested in the above hotels for events or meetings in Glasgow? Follow the links in the feature to book.

To find out more, check out EDGEVenues.com

12th September 202312th September 2023

Spa venues for meetings and events

We’ve curated a list of our favourite spa venues in the UK with innovative treatments and a chill vibe. Spa hotels and venues are perfect places to host a meeting or event.

Delegates will appreciate taking some wellness time in a state-of-the-art spa after a long day. So have a look at our spectacular spa spots:

Spa venues

Cottons Hotel & Spa

Cottons Hotel is just minutes from the M6 and M56, with Manchester, Liverpool, Chester and Manchester Airport, making it a very easily accessible venue. Also close by is Tatton Park, Chester Zoo or the Blue Planet Aquarium, perfect for day trips.

The hotel has 13 meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 200 delegates, all with access to high-speed Wi-Fi. In addition, there are 138 guest bedrooms, a business centre, gym, and plenty of complimentary car parking spaces on site.

The Cottons Hotel Spa has everything guests need to relax. From their warming sauna to bubbling outdoor hot tub, a steam room for deep breathing, and finally, swimming pool for a refreshing dip.

The hotel proudly works with Caudalie for their spa treatments. Caudalie is a French skincare brand by Mathilde and Bertrand Thomas in Bordeaux. It makes all products using natural ingredients from the vine and grapes of the family vineyard.

Buxton Crescent Spa Hotel

High up on the edge of The Peak District National Park, guests will find Buxton Crescent Spa Hotel. This architecturally significant Grade I listed building has woven modern facilities and a luxurious décor, accompanied by exceptional guest service. The hotel is great for meetings and events, with 7 meeting rooms – the largest fitting 186 delegates.

The Crescent is a sanctuary of natural health resources and spa bathing rituals. The Buxton Crescent Spa Hotel is the first UK property from Europe’s largest health spa operator – Ensana.

The luxury hotel comprises of 81 rooms and the spa is home to three pools and eight treatment rooms, with water wellness at the forefront of the hotel’s spa offering. The treatments continue to draw from nature as the spa has a salt cave that can accommodate 6 people, 3 individual mud treatment rooms, 3 individual thermal mineral baths and CO2 baths.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Edinburgh City Centre

Radisson Blu Hotel Edinburgh sits on the historic Royal Mile in Edinburgh. It is a short walk from Waverley Station and close to public transport links to Edinburgh International Airport.

The hotel is a 4* venue offering 238 bedrooms and eight meeting rooms, all with natural daylight and air conditioning. It can cater a range of events up to 240 delegates. The hotel boasts two restaurants and full leisure facilities with three treatment rooms. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel.

The hotel has the rejuvenating Melrose Spa and Health Club on site, complete with indoor heated swimming pool (child friendly), sauna, steam room, Spa Treatment Rooms and gym equipment. Every hotel stay includes Health Club access. The Spa offers a range of treatments, from relaxing massages to manicures and pedicures for guests to relax and rewind.

Aztec Hotel & Spa

Aztec Hotel & Spa is a modern, purpose-built hotel in Almondsbury, Bristol and is ideal for a exploring Bristol and the surrounding area. Its signature rooms provide a comfy retreat after a day of meetings in the West Country. The junior suites offer extra space for solo business travellers looking to up the comfort factor.

The hotel has its own Chef’s Table, laden with seafood, cured meats, pies, and cheese, all made by local suppliers. The chef prepares menus with seasonal ingredients, so you won’t find yourself ordering the same meals repeatedly but instead trying new tasty dishes. Guests can stop by for their daily afternoon tea or get together with fellow delegates for a traditional Sunday lunch with all the trimmings during weekend events.

The property’s state-of-the-art spa has a special Treatment of the Month on offer for guests to pamper themselves with. The hotel works with Amethyst Trust to deliver their treatments. Amethyst is a charitable trust providing massage, relaxation and pampering therapies for people who have had cancer treatment. Its fully-trained therapists provide professional massage therapy safely to ensure wellness.

Crewe Hall Hotel & Spa

Crewe Hall is a Grade I listed building located in extensive grounds and has attracted refined guests since the 17th century. It has 17 conference and meeting rooms – historic, original meeting rooms in the old house are ideal for the board to set a strategy, and the modern suites in the new events centre create perfect learning environments or a stunning setting for that grand product launch or annual conference.

Crewe Hall’s Spa has luxurious ELEMIS products and treatments. The selection leaves skin feeling nourished and glowing, whether guests enjoy a soothing facial or invigorating deep-tissue massage.

Once the treatment finishes in one of their six treatment rooms, guests can keep that feeling of calm going a bit longer with a dip in their indoor heated pool, a sauna or steam room session or even a drink on one of the poolside loungers.

Mottram Hall Hotel

The 4* Mottram Hall is a stylishly furnished elegant 18th Century Georgian hotel. It retains many original features and combines them with modern facilities and accommodation to create an appealing experience in a unique setting.

There are 131 bedrooms including executive doubles and four posters, some enjoying views of the ornamental lake or golf course. The hotel has three dining options to choose from Nathaniel’s, which offers traditional dining; guests can enjoy the more informal atmosphere of the Terrace Café Bar and the Brasserie in the clubhouse with its stunning balcony and superb views over the golf course.

There is conference space to suit meetings from 5 – 200 across eight meeting rooms, and the grandest room is the St Andrews Suite that can hold up to 120 for a dinner dance.

Good Spa Guide awarded Champneys Mottram Hall their highest rating of 5 Bubble Luxury, paying tribute to its ‘striking design, fantastic facilities and lip-smacking food’, plus the vast treatment menu and new outside area. The spa is home to monsoon showers, a 20m indoor pool, hydro pool, panoramic gym, and stylish poolside cabanas. It is a perfect place to relax.

Interested in the above spa venues for an event or meeting? Follow the links in the feature to check out the full venue profile pages, and to book.

5th September 20231st November 2023

Event room layout: Choosing the right one

One of the most crucial factors for your meeting or event is the best room layout for your content and delegates.

Everyone needs enough space, a table for writing notes, a clear view of your speakers, and a screen if you are sharing any media. If the room is set up correctly, it supports your session objectives, and maximises the experience of your delegates.

So, for those who haven’t come across all of the various standard event styles yet, below is an overview of your room layout options.

And, we’ve provided a handy downloadable guide as a round-up and reminder for you.

Room layout options

Theatre style

Theatre-style seating is an arrangement of chairs in rows, arcs or circles that all face the same direction in the venue space. There are no tables, desks, or additional furniture used in theatre-style seating. This style is appropriate for large groups and short lectures that do not require extensive note-taking. This is a convenient set-up to use before breaking into discussion groups or for role-playing because chairs can be moved.

Considerations:

Will water be available for delegates during the meeting?
How and where will refreshments be served?

Classroom style

Classroom-style seating is ideal for sessions that are presentation and speaker-led. They allow guests to focus all their attention directly on the presentation or speaker leading the session. This style is the most desirable set-up for medium to large-sized meetings.

However, this style requires a relatively large room. The tables provide attendees with space for spreading out materials and taking notes.

Considerations:

How large is the group and what are they doing? A two-day training course for 20 people will have different needs to a 2-hour presentation for 150 people.

Boardroom style

Boardroom and conference seating offer one long, rectangular table for guests to sit facing each other. It is appropriate for interactive discussions and note-taking sessions for fewer than 25 people.

Many hotels have elegant boardrooms with fixed boardroom tables and ergonomic chairs. This style can also be used for private dining.

Considerations:

Think carefully about how many people will be attending and whether a microphone will be needed by the speakers.

U-shape style

U-shaped or horseshoe seating features a group of tables in the shape of a box with a hollow centre and one open end. This style is good for attendees who are familiar with each other or are working together as it is a close-knit seating style.

It is appropriate for groups with fewer than 40 people. Maximum interaction is ensured with the leader seated at the head of the set-up. Audio-visual equipment is usually best placed at the open end of the seating.

Considerations:

How much interaction is there between the delegates and the speakers?
Will there be discussions between the delegates themselves?
Do the attendees need to split into smaller groups?
Will people be moving around and does the room suit this?

Cabaret style

Research has found that physically being closer to someone makes you feel emotionally closer to them too, which could explain why cabaret-style seating at events helps build relationships. Whether you choose cocktail tables for your entire space or mix them in with other seating types, make sure to place the chairs in a U-shape around them with an opening that faces a chosen focal point, such as a stage or dancefloor. This style is useful if you need smaller groups around one table, but audio-visual equipment is being used at the front of the room. This set-up allows all delegates to see without having to turn around.

Dinner layout

Generally used for meals and sessions involving small group discussions. A five-foot round table seats eight people comfortably. A six-foot round table seats 10-12 people. A dance floor can be incorporated when required, although this does reduce the number of tables that can be accommodated.

Considerations:

If you are organising a dinner, think about staging, whether there is a top table, microphones, speakers and presentations.
If back projection is needed, then it will reduce the usable space for attendees.
Ten or 11 people around the table is ideal, when 12 are seated it can be quite squashed.

Buffet reception style

This style is ideal for shorter events where eating and socialising are required. Your guests will usually stand and serve themselves at the buffet.

They would normally not sit down to eat, choosing instead to stand at poser tables, tall cocktail tables or circulate the room. It’s for this reason that the food you serve should be ‘finger food’ and/or ‘fork food’.

Considerations:

What sort of food will be served?
Is it a finger buffet or will attendees need to put drinks down while they are holding forks and plates?

Here you can find our handy visual guide of the pros and cons of each room layout:

Don’t forget that you use the ‘Advanced Search’ option on EDGEVenues.com to find the right layout for you at your selected venue.

30th August 202325th August 2023

Meeting in Madrid

Madrid won the World’s Best Meetings & Conference Destination Award at the 2022 World Travel Awards for the fourth year running. Safe to say that if your delegates are meeting in Madrid, your destination knows a thing or two about hosting.

As the most important city in Spain’s financial and industrial sectors and home to 10 universities, let’s find out more about meeting in Madrid.

Madrid in Statistics

Winner of the World’s Best Meetings & Conference Destination Award at the 2022 World Travel Awards
5th Place in the International Congress & Convention Association
2nd Safest European capital city
2nd City in the World With the Most Green Spaces
Over 2,000 multi-national companies in the city and 303 hotels
Connected to 172 destinations with direct flights

Classic Spanish Culture

The culture of Madrid is inspired by its long, historic role in European history. Yet nowadays it has a dominant position in the art and international food scenes, and is known for its fiestas.

The city’s location in the centre of the Iberian Peninsula means it is a hotspot for popular festivals and events. And in the centre of Madrid is the Museo del Prado – widely considered one of the world’s best art museums. Art by renowned Franciso Goya, Hieronymus Bosch, and Diego Velázquez, can all be found here.

Madrid’s Must-Sees

As well as visiting Museo del Prado, business travellers in Madrid must also see Gran Via. This is the main tourist and shopping artery in the city centre, home to some great entertainment spots. Visitors have to stop by El Retiro Park, a 118-hectare park with well-manicured greenery, beautiful sculptures, and a rose garden.

Madrid is also home to some fantastic flea markets that can’t be missed. Every Sunday at Plaza Cascorro is El Rastro Market with stalls selling practically everything one could imagine. Locals grab a pint at the local neighbourhood of La Latina after a hard morning’s shopping at the market.

Meeting in Madrid Venues:

ME Madrid Reina Victoria

In the central Plaza de Santa Ana, this hotel has 192 bedrooms and is set in an old 19th-century palace. The venue is in the ME by Melia brand and is a 4-star property. It has a rooftop bar with stunning views over Madrid. And the bar serves delicious Mediterranean dishes before transforming into an evening live music spot.

ME Madrid Reina Victoria is located in central Madrid, close to the Museum del Prado and La Puerta del Sol. It is a 20-minute journey to Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD).

Hotel Urban

Hotel Urban is a five-star Gran Luxe hotel located in the financial, political, cultural and commercial centre of Madrid. It sits at the heart of the “Golden Triangle” formed of Prado Museum, Thyssen-Bornemisza and Fundación Reina Sofia. So, Madrid’s main attractions are certainly within reach. Think the Paseo del Prado, Puerta del Sol, Plaza Mayor and the Retiro Park!

The hotel is only 17 minutes from the nearest airport and a few minutes’ walk from the Sol train station.

Hotel Santo Domingo

Hotel Santo Domingo is a 4-star hotel. It is located in the heart of the city, between the Gran Vía, the Royal Palace and the Plaza Mayor. It is close to the Puerta del Sol, La Latina and Chueca districts. It’s also close to the biggest museums, including El Prado and the Thyssen, and the best shopping area in Madrid.

They offer different multipurpose rooms, perfectly equipped for the organisation of MICE-style events. They have 12 meeting rooms of different sizes, characteristics and capacities. In addition, the 200 rooms available means the guests can stay on-site.

Hotel Villa Real

Hotel Villa Real is an exquisite 5-star luxury hotel in the heart of Madrid – the Plaza de las Cortes. It lies in front of the Congress of Deputies, a few minutes from the Puerta del Sol. It’s an ideal setting for exploring the ‘Madrid of the Austrians’, and perfect for business stays in the city.

There are 9 meeting rooms with a maximum capacity of 200 cocktail-style. They also have a range of rooms varying from real suites to superior rooms.

The Westin Palace

Ideally positioned at the centre of the Spanish capital, The Westin Palace, Madrid is located at The Art Walk. It’s only steps away from some of the most prestigious museums in Europe. And it sits in a cultural and artistic area combining literature, entertainment, and some of the city’s best food.

The magnificent building of The Westin Palace is highlighted by an enormous stained-glass dome. And it has long been a centre of Spanish society. The hotel offers 27,447sq. ft of event space to accommodate up to 700 delegates in one of 20 event rooms.

Check out previous winners of the World Travel Awards, here.

Interested in the above hotels for an event of meeting in Madrid? Follow the links in the feature to book.

29th August 202325th September 2023

Academic Venues to Make Any Event Grade A+

What better space to hold an informative and educational event than at an academic venue? From Nottingham to London, and lots more, there are plenty of academic venues in the UK in which to host meetings and events.

Here’s a selection for you to check out on EDGE Venues:

Academic Venues

Nottingham Venues – East Midlands Conference Centre & The Orchard Hotel

Set in 330 acres of landscaped parkland two miles from central Nottingham and just a few short miles from the M1 motorway. Nottingham Venues East Midlands Conference Centre is a modern venue with inspirational surroundings. It is only a 10-minute taxi or car journey from Nottingham station, 7 miles from Nottingham East Midlands Airport and 5 miles from the M1. They have parking available for 220 cars free of charge.

The Orchard Hotel & Restaurant is an eco-friendly venue consisting of 202 bedrooms, 6 meeting rooms, a brasserie and is located next to the East Midlands Conference Centre. Their stunning green setting means that guests can enjoy a peaceful walk in the surrounding parkland, whilst overnight guests can take advantage of the gym facilities within the David Ross Sports Village.

The Orchard hotel & Restaurant is an eco-friendly venue consisting of 202 bedrooms, 6 meeting rooms, a brasserie and is located next to the East Midlands Conference Centre.

Its stunning green setting means guests can enjoy a peaceful walk in the surrounding parkland, whilst overnight guests can take advantage of the gym facilities within the David Ross Sports Village.

Warwick Conferences – Radcliffe, Central Campus Venue and The Slate

The 700-acre University of Warwick campus has plenty to experience. Beautiful countryside is all around, and there is also plenty to explore close to Warwick Conference’s central location. Coventry is rich in culture and heritage with attractions, popular cafes, bars and quirky restaurants.

At the Central Campus Venue, you can build your ideal event with a range of tailor-made spaces. They have capacity to host 12 up to 1,200 delegates in eclectic and extraordinary spaces. Their Conference Park offers meeting, sleeping and eating spaces, all available within the University of Warwick.

Radcliffe is a sophisticated, refined and thought-provoking event venue. From a small meeting with colleagues to a large conference of delegates, they have rooms that can deliver whatever sized space you’re looking for. Their audio and visual conferencing solution includes all the equipment you’ll need to effectively connect and collaborate remotely, whilst maximising the experience, output and interaction of your session.

The Slate is a venue for conferences that have no barriers- a meeting room venue that’s completely flexible. The Slate has a lakeside view, BREEAM Architecture and has a glass façade. When it comes to exclusive venue hire, the experience at The Slate is truly unique.

Coventry Conferences – Technocentre

CoventryConferences Technocentre is within easy walking distance of Coventry railway station, which is less than 12 minutes from Birmingham International station. It is also accessible by car via the extensive Midlands motorway network.

With a variety of meeting spaces, this venue offers meeting and event organisers a solution for events from 2 to 200 delegates. All of the rooms have wireless broadband internet connectivity.

The rooms offer natural daylight, air conditioning, and have ceiling mounted Sony LCD projectors, large wall mounted screens, water coolers, direct dial telephones through to the Duty Officer and flipcharts.

Millennium Point

Millennium Point is in the Eastside district of Birmingham, close to Moor Street train station and New Street station. The venue offers several spaces for hire from small office spaces to large auditorium which can accommodate 350. Millennium Point also offers a variety of add-ons to each event from bespoke catering, to hybrid and virtual packages.

Owned by Millennium Point Charitable Trust, everything it does as an events venue – meeting place and facilitator – feeds back into its charity. The charity supports science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) related projects, initiatives, organisations and individuals across the West Midlands.

Burleigh Court

Burleigh Court has a fantastic central location in the heart of England. Located on Loughborough University’s campus in the East Midlands, Burleigh Court is easily accessible by road, rail and air. It sits one mile from junction 23 of the M1, three miles from Loughborough’s intercity railway station and eight miles from East Midlands Airport.

Burleigh Court is one of the largest 4-star conference venues in the Midlands with 26 training rooms offering a maximum capacity of 240 delegates, equipped with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment, a flexible exhibition area.

The venue’s restaurant and bar provides a wide variety of cuisine, made with locally sourced produce and will cater to all guests. Guests can enjoy their spa facilities, with a well-equipped gym, swimming pool, steam room and sauna.

Chicago Booth London Conference Centre

Located in one of the world’s leading centres for banking, finance, and tech, Chicago Booth has some amazing events spaces. The spaces include two-tiered classrooms with state-of-the-art technology.

Its space spans three floors of the new One Bartholomew Close, and includes an abundance of options customisable to your needs. Occupying a total of 43,796 square feet there is a plethora of space for a range of different events.

Elm Grove Conference Centre

Elm Grove Conference Centre is located just outside of Central London between Richmond Park and Wimbledon. The site has easy access by car, train or bus as it sits just off the A3/M4.

Elm Grove Conference Centre offering two floors of meeting and event space. The Oak Suite can be split into three separate rooms. Each boasts 98” plasma screens, touch screen controls for sound, and floor-to-ceiling windows with views over gardens and courtyards.

Sat either side of the Oak Suite are two boardrooms hosting up to 10 delegates. These are perfect for smaller meetings or breakout spaces. Moving up to the top floor, the Lime Tree Suite enables guests to look out over SW15 and the City of London. This makes it a perfect space for catering, networking or exhibitions.

Within the centre they also offer overnight accommodation with 31 bedrooms on site. During the summer and weekends you can also use the Grove House – Grade II listed building with plentiful grounds and spaces.

Interested in the above academic venues for an event or meeting? Follow the links in the feature to book, or get in touch.

22nd August 20237th February 2024

Team Building for Business

What are you waiting for?

Team building is a perfect way to bring employees together in a post-pandemic era. While some employers have stuck with flexibility around homeworking, others have welcomed many employees new to their industry.

Both of those scenarios can lead to disjointed teams which could benefit from the boost of a brilliant team build. The event are a great way to get to know individual strengths and weaknesses and develop skills people can use to support each other and your business.

Did you know that team building can also be a continual process to reinforce the company’s culture, rather than a one-off exercise with a particular training goal?

Here are some of the questions to ask yourself before planning your team building.

What does the team or organisation need?

Do you need a continual process to reinforce the company’s culture or one-off exercises with a particular training goal?
Does the team work well together and communicate well?
Do individuals work to their own goals or together to achieve success?
Do the team members know each other’s strengths and weaknesses?
Are individuals adaptable or resistant to change?
Are there conflicts between certain people that are creating divisions within the team?

Now you are armed with some answers to the questions above, how can you achieve your goals? Let’s take a look:

Methods to achieve the goals

Social events are a great way to get to know people and build relationships. These will also improve morale.
A team building exercise can target training needs, using the different abilities of the team members to develop skills in others. This can bring out the knowledge of individuals and staff will know who to turn to when they need help.
Keeping people connected is important, so an activity that builds relationships and brings people together can work with individuals who don’t usually work in the same location.
When employees work to a shared goal, an activity that leads to successful completion will increase confidence. It will also increase productivity by helping them to work more successfully together.
Improving communication – a relaxed, fun activity will help people get to know each other. These activities will break down barriers and improve trust between employees.

You can, of course, engage a team building company to run an event, such as Off Limits. Many venues also run the events themselves or partner with a preferred team building company. Here a couple of great options:

There are also exercises that can be done in-house with little or no budget. Consider the options and objectives as well as time, budget and desired outcome to find what suits you best.

Engaging your team and investing in them will mean a happier and healthier workforce, and people working to their full potential. And for employees who prefer to change jobs regularly, team building is another way of retaining talent through investment in their progress.

Interested in experiencing great team building for your team? Find the perfect location and venue on EGDEVenues.com, or contact our colleagues at Trinity Event Solutions for more support.

21st August 20237th February 2024

Site Inspection Checklist: What to Look Out For

A site inspection is your opportunity to understand how your event will work at the venue, so arm yourself with our site inspection checklist to make sure nothing is missed.

We’ve compiled a list of our most important questions to ask yourself, or the venue when conducting a site visit.

Remember to ask searching questions until you get the answers you need. After all you’ll be paying the bill! Here are some of the things you need to consider:

Site Inspection checklist

Event Location

Is the venue easy to find? Is the signage clear?

How far away is the nearest airport and railway station by taxi or bus?

Is there sufficient parking?

Is it in a safe area? If security is required, can the venue meet these needs?

The Venue

Does the venue look welcoming, attractive and clean?

Are there plenty of staff in the reception area to check-in or help and direct guests?

Is it clear where the meeting rooms are and how will they be signed?

Registration Area

Where will this be located and is there adequate storage?

Is there enough space for staff and attendees? Is it a private area or will people attending other events be passing through?

Do you need a telephone, power points and internet connection?

The Meeting Room(s)

Which floor is it on and how will attendees get there?

Does it meet the size and layout requirements?

Are the breakout rooms close to the main meeting room?

What equipment is in the room and is there space for additional production equipment to be brought in?

How easy is the access to bring equipment into the meeting rooms?

Are the chairs comfortable, what size are the tables?

Is water provided for the delegates and what is included in the package?

Where do attendees leave their coats and bags?

Where are the nearest toilets?

Is the venue fully accessible for disabled delegates?

Check extra facilities such as lighting, soundproofing, air conditioning, power supply, wi-fi, ceiling height, door aperture and if there are any pillars to get in the way.

Catering

How many tea/coffee breaks are there and where will they be served?

Where will lunch be served and how easy is it for the attendees to get there?

Are the corridors an adequate size for the delegates to move around?

Is the standard of food good, is there a choice of menu? (Top Tip: Have a meal and try different dishes before committing to a delicious dish for the event)

What options are there for special diets?

Can the restaurant accommodate special dietary requirements?

Are drinks included in the menu price or extra?

Are there plenty of staff to serve the food quickly?

How many food stations will there be?

Bedrooms

How many are there and what sizing options are on offer??

Are they clean and well-maintained? Is there disabled access?

Are there designated smoking and non-smoking rooms?

What time can attendees check in and out?

Are the lifts, fire exits, and stairs all in order?

Technology

Is the Wi-Fi able to cope with everyone bringing 2-3 devices with them?

Will the speakers do any live streaming and what do you need to make sure you have a fast, reliable connection?

Other

Are the staff friendly and helpful?

When were the venue/meeting room/bedrooms last renovated?

Are there any refurbishments due?

Have any of your competitors booked a meeting at the venue on the same date?

Is there a gym/swimming pool/golf course or other leisure facilities and are there additional charges to use them?

Is there a business centre and what other services are available for guests?

Who is trained in First Aid and where are the nearest medical and dental facilities?

What are the venue’s insurance and crisis management procedures? Take a look at our article on Security and Risk for more information.

What are the venue’s standards of service? (Top Tip: make sure that these are incorporated in the contract)

Remember the venue represents your organisation and you need to make sure it upholds your standards and reputation. A well-run and enjoyable event can only enhance your company’s image. Ensuring you have done all of these checks before booking will streamline your event’s planning process, and save you time overall.

We’re always happy to help with venue procurement and advice to make your event a success, so contact us.

10th August 202310th August 2023

Historic venues

If you’re looking for historic venues for meetings and events, you’ve come to the perfect place. The UK has an intriguing history from the Romans all the way up to Victorian times. In amongst this, buildings were built to reflect the period, some of which still stand today. These lavish manors and regal castles make perfect venues to host meetings and events.

Hosting an event at a historic venue will add an element of luxury and uniqueness. So, we’re looking at some of our favourite historic venues perfect for events. From Stonehenge’s neighbour to a former WW2 hospital, we have them covered!

Our favourite historic venues

Slaley Hall, Hexham

Slaley Hall is a 4* former hunting lodge in 1,000 acres of Northumberland countryside. Surrounded by forest and moors, the estate offers a wealth of history, previously acting as a hospital during WW2.

On site, guests can find two PGA championship golf courses, an activity centre and a luxurious spa. The hotel has ten meeting rooms catering for two – 350 people and event spaces for up to 500, theatre-style. Also, private dining is available on request.

The hotel is only 30 minutes from Newcastle Station and Newcastle International Airport. From the A68 link road, guests arrive at the courtyard reception. Cars can also be valet parked from here, in one of 400 complimentary car and coach parking spaces.

Norton Park, Nr. Winchester

Norton Park is in a great location with fantastic facilities. The hotel is located 8 miles outside Winchester. The closest airport, London Heathrow, is 45 miles away. There is free parking for up to 220 cars.

The house was originally probably built in the 16th century for the St John family. It was tastefully restored and enlarged by Mr Hampton at the beginning of the 20th century. Norton Farm lay close to the Manor and any park area would have abutted farmland. From there, the residents built a walled garden, glasshouses, and a small parkland, making up the hotel guests can visit today.

In the hotel, there are 16 meeting rooms with natural daylight, state-of-the art meeting facilities and catering for up to 340 delegates in the main conference room, the Norton Suite. Coupled with 54 acres of stunning grounds, Norton Park is a motivational learning environment for training, a secure, self-contained venue to hire exclusively.

The Crown Hotel, Harrogate

This hotel has a history of over 300 years and an enviable location close to many of Harrogate’s popular sites! So it combines beautiful surroundings, a storied past and luxurious facilities, making it ideal for business and leisure trips.

The name ‘Crown’ may have been adopted around the time of Charles II’s restoration of the monarchy in 1660. During this time, a much smaller inn overlooked the Sulphur Well to the west. Since then, the Crown thrived, reaching ‘gigantic proportions’ by the time Lord Byron was a guests in 1806. Not forgetting his ‘string of horses, dogs and mistresses’!

The Crown boasts individually-styled accommodation across its 115 guestrooms, modern amenities, and ornate dining, all set within the charming old town of Harrogate itself, within easy reach of Betty’s Tea Rooms and the Harrogate Convention Centre.

The Crown Hotel is easily accessible from the A1(M). The town’s train station is a 10 minute walk from the venue. And the closest airport, Leeds Bradford International, is a 30 minute drive, approximately 13 miles.

This large hotel offers 114 en-suite bedrooms and suites and can host events for up to 700 attendees. There are a variety of rooms available for conferences. The smallest capacity room is suitable for 25 delegates and the largest capacity room catering for up to 400.

Lainston House Hotel, Winchester

Lainston House Hotel’s history dates back to when King Charles II visited the property with his mistress Louise de Keroulle. The building itself dates from the 1600’s and you may describe it as pretty rather than grand.

However, the history of the estate clearly goes back far further than the 17th century. Evidence for this comes in the form of a 13th century chapel in the hotel’s grounds.

Lainston House Hotel is close to the M3 Motorway and only 60 minutes from central London.

The hotel is a truly memorable place to host important meetings and events. For a residential conference the hotel has 50 individually designed bedrooms and beautifully appointed rooms for private dining.

The hotel discreetly combines traditional style and great food with modern needs, friendly faces and copious space. All meeting rooms receive an abundance of natural daylight. Many have elegant garden terraces and state-of-the-art technology such as Wi-Fi and broadband.

Handmade mattresses and pillow menus set the scene for a good nights’ sleep, ensuring guests a comfortable stay.

Lainston House Hotel is just under an hour from London by train, followed by a short taxi ride from Winchester. The hotel has plenty of onsite parking for guests who choose to drive and a helipad for anyone travelling in style.

The Stones Hotel, Salisbury

Wiltshire has been a special place for a long time, and their World Heritage Site stands testament to the ages. The ancient standing stones at Stonehenge and Avebury have a magnetism that has drawn people to them for centuries.

Romans, Normans and Saxons have all left their mark on our countryside and towns. Walk through time on your visit to Wiltshire! Touch and feel the past as it inspires you with what it offers from the past to present day!

The Stones Hotel sits on the outskirts of the Cathedral City of Salisbury in the rolling Wiltshire landscape. It’s a short distance from the World Heritage site of Stonehenge and 15 miles from New Forest National Park. So, it’s the perfect country side retreat.

Rated silver with Green Tourism and demonstrates best practise measures by way of being green and sustainable as a hotel. The Stones Hotel is committed to sustaining eco-friendly and renewable resources. One example is its environmentally friendly water filtered on site from the water table beneath the hotel.

Find out more about any of these venues by getting in touch with us, or visiting our website.