Posts

Posted on

Power of events report, beam annual forum, mia Student Membership, & more

This Monday’s Insights (03 July 2023) feature brings you the latest news including the power of events report, beam’s annual forum, mia’s Student Membership, and more.

Headlines

The Power of Events is limitless but the industry needs to spread the word, according to a new report.

The report from ICC Wales , called Event Power: A Force for Good, ‘looks beyond the traditional measures of event impact – economic value, job creation, increased destination profiling – and focuses on the far-reaching benefits that events bring to communities and supply chains, as well as on matters such as sustainability and future-building’.

The report – details shared by M&IT – includes forewords from Rt. Hon Theresa Villiers MP, chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group for Events, and Chris Skeith OBE, chair of UK Events, alongside expert industry contributions from The Business of Events, the Association of Event Venues, the Meetings Industry Association, the Association of British Professional Conference Organisers, and the BestCities Global Alliance.

Launched at The Meetings Show 2023 at ExCel London, the power of events document concludes: “The events industry is an unsung hero. Many people believe events just happen… they have no idea of what goes on behind the scenes.

“Events are a force for good and we need to get this vitally important message across to those who are not in our community, so that the remarkable power of events is truly recognised.” 

Read M&IT’s insights and access the download link, here.

Northstar Travel Group has launched The Meetings Show Asia Pacific.

Northstar Travel Group, the leading B-to-B information, events and marketing solutions company in the travel industry, has announced the launch of the hosted buyer led tradeshow for the Asia Pacific meetings industry.

The Meetings Show Asia Pacific (www.themeetingsshow-apac.com), supported by Singapore Tourism Board, will take place from 17-18 April 2024 at Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore, welcoming global exhibitors and an audience of pre-qualified and hosted buyers.

Singapore is a Global-Asia node for MICE and business. As a gateway to the fast-growing Asia Pacific region and home to a vibrant business community, Singapore was chosen as the host destination for the debut of The Meetings Show Asia Pacific, offering access to new partnerships and business ideas.

Featuring Asian and international destinations, venues, hotels and other key suppliers, the event will be supported by an exclusive hosted buyer programme, bringing senior meetings, conventions, events and incentives buyers to a bustling tradeshow floor. A unique prescheduled meetings platform will provide an intimate platform to do business, as well as a conference providing a thought-provoking education programme and a series of high-quality networking events.

The Meetings Show Asia Pacific is an extension of the long standing ‘The Meetings Show’ brand, which takes place annually in London, and will further complement Northstar Meetings Group’s global portfolio of media, events, information & marketing solutions.

Jason Young, CEO, Northstar Travel Group, said: “With our continued commitment to greater serve the APAC region, our depth of industry knowledge and the experienced meetings professionals who work in our UK, Singapore and US offices, it became apparent there was an opportunity to bring our world class experiences to the Asia Pacific meetings market under the established and successful brand of The Meetings Show.”

beam’s new style Annual Forum will prepare members for current and future challenges across their businesses.

Industry 4.0 – Collaborations, Connections & Community, is the title of beam’s upcoming annual forum, which has been created by the beam events action group. The event, with headline sponsors Open Audience and Song Division, will bring beam members together from across the UK at the Hilton Bournemouth on 6 & 7 July and is also open to non-members of the association.

“This year the Forum will be more of a hands-on business event, featuring engaging and inspiring speakers and generating tangible takeaways,” says Beckie Towle, events director of beam.

The keynote will be presented by Matt Lindley. Matt is a serving airline pilot and former RAF pilot who applies his experiences in leadership, accountability and culture to the business world.

Before taking his commercial flying job, he was a Royal Air Force Fast Jet pilot and later became a Captain on the Queens Flight, flying Her Majesty The Queen, members of the Royal Family, the Prime Minister and Cabinet worldwide for over 10 years.

Among the many outstanding and fascinating speakers sharing valuable insights will be Paul Martin of Events Air, Sam McNeill of Song Division, Helen Moon of EventWell, Leslie Robertson of Open Audience, Neil Thompson of The Delegate Wranglers, Peter Heath of Venue Performance and many more.

Beckie Towle continues “Industry 4.0 – Collaborations, Connections & Community is about preparing and supporting our members with what is coming next. The format will be a mix of plenary and educational breakout sessions.

“The content will cover a broad range of significant industry subject areas, including AI and ChatGPT, data, ESG, and leadership skills.

“There will also be follow-up sessions on recent beam events such as the Sustainability Forum, Finance Forum, and the Instant Book Summit. We’ll be joined by guest speakers from across the industry as well as experts covering the themes. There will be a lot of engaging content that is valuable to everyone.”

The beam Annual Forum is also well known as one of the industry’s best social events of the year. Throughout the two days, there will be plenty of opportunities to catch up with colleagues and get to know new contacts. The event will also be supporting and raising money for Meeting Needs through a variety of activities.

Sian Sayward, chair of beam, says: “We have been working hard on creating an event that offers real benefits for everyone. The program is designed with audience involvement as a priority, as well as delivering fresh, relevant and thought-provoking content. It will be a Forum that’s not to be missed.”

Contact membership@beam-org.uk for information or visit https://www.cognitoforms.com/Beam9/Beams2023AnnualForum2 to register.

The Meetings Industry Association (mia) has launched a student membership.

According to a feature on Event Industry News, the new membership is ‘designed to inspire the sector’s next generation of talent, the membership will present aspiring event professionals with exclusive educational and career opportunities and provide a platform for Continuing Professional Development (CPD).’

Find out more via https://www.mia-uk.org/Student-Membership or Event Industry News.

Senior leaders from across Northern Ireland came together at an event hosted by ICC Belfast on 29 June, to reaffirm their commitment to delivering economic impact for the city.

It is estimated that events, such as conferences and conventions, deliver approximately £209m in direct economic impact, with up to 2,000 new jobs targeted by 2030 as a result. Check out all the details via the Conference News feature, link below.

https://www.conference-news.co.uk/news/belfast-leaders-commit-to-delivering-economic-impact-for-the-city/
Posted on

Venues in Nottingham – the home of Robin Hood

The fascinating city of Nottingham has rich and captivating culture and a long list of venues. This thriving city is home to so much more than men in tights! And it might be the perfect place for your next event!

Here are some of the reasons why event profs love the city, and a selection of venues in Nottingham:

A Captivating Culture

Well-known for the famous legend of Robin Hood, Nottingham is known worldwide for the part it played in historical culture. Overlooking this beautiful city, situated high on a cliff is Nottingham Castle.

Having recently undergone a £30 million transformation, this thrilling castle is a major tourist attraction for the city and brings in thousands of visitors each year.

Further down in the city, there is a vast cave network at the City of Caves which can be explored during your time in the city!

Nottingham is home to a thriving culture of literature and art. With an array of history museums and art galleries, this beautiful city is bound to grab your attention, with something for an array of interests.

The Nottingham Playhouse displays a selection of performances throughout the year, including live concerts, musicals, and operas for visitors to enjoy. For contemporary art lovers, the art gallery has a range of exhibitions and showcases to be enjoyed.

It’s a Food and Drink Haven.

Nottingham is a haven for food and drink lovers, with something for everyone’s tastes and preferences. The city offers a selection of bars, cafes, pubs and restaurants, from delicious traditional dishes to unique contemporary cocktails, this city has it all.

Kushi Ya is a delicious Japanese restaurant creating a range of traditional delicacies to try! It was even included in the Michelin Guide last year so it’s not one to be missed!

Located in the Island Quarter, The Cleaver and Wake brings a lovely splash of fine dining to the city, with a variety of dishes from lobster to mouth-watering steaks. For a chilled-out atmosphere, visit the Bar Iberico for 5-star tapas dishes- a favourite amongst locals.

For a cold drink, visit the Pitcher and Piano, a bustling chain bar set in a beautifully decorated 19th-century church in the city centre, this bar and restaurant is full of charm. For a fruity cocktail, the Tilt bar provides a selection of creative cocktails with a selection of live blues music every night!

Venues in Nottingham

There is a wide choice of venues in Nottingham. Here we share a selection, all bookable on EDGE Venues:

The East Midlands Conference Centre
The East Midlands Conference Centre is a premier venue located two miles from central Nottingham. Situated beautifully amongst 330 acres of picturesque parkland this venue is a must for a memorable event.

Boasting 202 bedrooms and 25 spacious meeting rooms, the conference centre is a sought-after location for a selection of conferences and meetings. There is on-site parking f for 20 cars as well as a restaurant and a mini gym for guests to enjoy. This venue and its peaceful location are perfect for an unforgettable event.

Delta By Marriott Nottingham Belfry

Delta By Marriott Nottingham Belfry is 15 minutes outside the centre of Nottingham, easily accessible from the main M1 road. The airport and railway station are also close to the hotel, providing an ideal location for a large conference.

Providing both comfort and convenience for guests, the 120 bedrooms and ten large meeting rooms offer space for large groups of delegates. It offers a selection of facilities for guests, including a gym, swimming pool and restaurant.

Radisson Blu Hotel East Midlands
The Radisson Blu Hotel East Midlands is near to East Midlands Airport. The hotel boasts 218 modern stylish rooms and a selection of facilities available for guests including an indoor swimming pool, spa, bar and restaurant, providing everything guests could need during their stay. There are nine spacious, versatile meeting rooms available for hire – perfect spaces for conferences and meetings.

Burleigh Court
Burleigh Court is a prestigious hotel and conference centre located in Loughborough, Leicestershire. With 185 bedrooms and 26 meeting rooms, this venue has ample space for any event. It is set in the stunning countryside, providing a relaxed and sedate atmosphere for guests. During their stay, delegates can enjoy the amenities and range of facilities available such as a gym, swimming pool and on-site restaurant.

The beautiful city of Nottingham has a wide selection of activities for visitors to enjoy. From a vast selection of tasty restaurants and bars to art museums and underground caves, the vibrant city is ideal for event profs and truly has something for everyone!

To find out more, check out EDGEVenues.com

Posted on

How to get involved with the Trinity EDGE Challenge

The auction is live!… View and bid on the auction lots.

Our Trinity Triple Challenge, now rebranded as Trinity EDGE Challenge is back!

Over the years we’ve raised more than £200K, supporting local charities that are close to our heart. Now we’re delighted to bring this back for 2023.

How does it work?

  • Our team are tasked with visiting 100 different venues each year.
  • As part of those venue visits, the team will be reaching out for donations that will be added as prizes for the auction. The auction will go live in October.
  • We will be running a social media campaign through July, August and September. This will promote the different prizes that have been donated with a big drive in October during the live bidding.
  • Depending on number of prizes donated, there will be approximately 5 weeks of Lots that will launch at the beginning of October. During this time we will be encouraging our network to be making generous donations for the chance to win one of the amazing prizes.

What’s in it for hotels and venues?

  • The opportunity to support our local charities
  • The opportunity to develop our team product knowledge on your venue
  • Brand awareness and exposure of your venue to our extensive network of our Trinity Corporate Clients and subscriber base of EDGE Venues
  • Social media and email campaign exposure about your venue

What does a star prize look like?

If you want to get a little added exposure, with a few extra shout outs, why not offer us a Star Prize. That might be a weekend away in an overseas destination or premium theatre tickets with dinner and overnight accommodation…

If we feel it’s worthy of a Star, we’ll give it star promotion.

Our Commitment

Trinity EDGE Solutions will cover all employee travel to ensure all proceeds go to charity. Our employees will source the most sustainable options to carry out their site visits and will only attend inspections that are relevant to their own product knowledge.

Our Charities

  • Don’t Lose Hope. A charity that offers a professional counselling service for all members of the community from age 4 upwards.  This is a free service for families/individuals receiving certain state benefits and affordable to all others and now proud to be able to offer their online shop.
  • Second Helpings. A project run in partnership with Stamford Methodist Church and the whole community. Their aim is to ‘feed bellies not bins’ and they are passionate about reducing food waste and working with the community to reduce environmental impact.
  • Bumps and Beyond. Founded in 2009 by Alice Scott in a small cupboard on the Stamford Hospital site. Ten years on and it is now a fully-fledged charity in its own right and has helped thousands of parents and care-givers!
  • Three Counties Dog Rescue – Bourne, Lincolnshire. Three Counties Dog Rescue has successfully re-homed over 7000 dogs and cats since its formation in 1971. All the animals are neutered, vaccinated and micro-chipped before re-homing. All work involving rehoming, is done entirely by voluntary and unpaid helpers.

How to Donate

If you’d like to support our Trinity EDGE Challenge with a donation, please email details of your prize to info@edgevenues.com. Include your terms and conditions that will be added to the auction site.

Posted on

Non-alcoholic drinks at events, ABPCO new board members, The Meetings Show, & more

This Monday’s Insights (26 June 2023) feature brings you the latest news including Non-alcoholic drinks at events, ABPCO new board members, The Meetings Show, and more.

Headlines

Non-alcoholic drinks at events – have your say

Cameron Roberts, editor of Conference News, has launched a new survey that aims to delve into how events organisers are catering for the increasing number of delegates that are choosing not to drink.

As part of a feature to launch the survey into non-alcoholic drinks at events, Roberts writes in Conference News: “For as long as I can remember alcohol at events has been the norm, with many a delegate and organisers alike unwinding with a beer or wine in hand. But over the last year or so, the number of people who don’t drink, or who choose to not drink, has become more visible to me.

Read more about the reasoning behind the new research and have your say via the survey link in the Conference News feature.

The Association of British Professional Conference Organisers (ABPCO) has confirmed the appointment of six industry figures to its executive board.

Announced during its virtual AGM attended by more than 50 members, the new board members introduced are:
Madalina Marincas – Opening Doors and Venues
Katie Bolton – MCI UK
Sarvjit Wunsch – Association of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery
Sammy Connell – NASUWT – The Teachers’ Union
Sarah Vaughan – The Chartered Institute of Trade Mark Attorneys
Kate Sargent – Bioscientifica Ltd

The AGM also shared the outline of ABPCO’s plans for the upcoming year including significant opportunities for growth.

Heather Lishman, ABPCO’s association director, said: “As these dedicated individuals join ABPCO’s executive board, the association looks ahead to another successful year, driven by the passion of our members. We look forward to capitalising on past achievements and embracing new opportunities for growth, innovation, and professional development.”

The Tourism Alliance has confirmed that Susan Tanner, CEO of the National Outdoor Events Association and UKEVENTS Vice Chair, has joined its 2023/24 board as the UKEVENTS representative.

Tanner takes the place of Michael Hirst OBE, UKEVENTS’ Immediate Past Chair, who has sat on the board since 2013.

The Tourism Alliance is an umbrella organisation representing the collective interests of the tourism industry and visitor economy in the UK.

UKEVENTS, itself an umbrella organisation, plays a crucial role in advocating and promoting the value of the events industry within the broader tourism sector. It brings together various stakeholders, including trade associations, event organisers, venues, and destination management organisations, to collaborate and work towards a common goal of supporting and growing the sector.

Outlining the role of the events industry in the wider visitor economy, Tanner said: “Naturally, I am delighted to be appointed to the Tourism Alliance Board for 2023/24. Approximately 50% of the tourism and visitor economy can be attributed to events, according to the UK Events Report of 2019. It’s a crucial component, not just from a fiscal point of view, but in the positioning of ‘Brand Britain’ as a whole; everything from Glastonbury and agricultural shows to the Coronation of King Charles III to The Ashes.

“Owing to the vast contributions made by events to the hospitality, tourism, and creative industries, it is important that we use the strong collective voice of the Tourism Alliance to ensure our sector is fairly represented and that our challenges are heard.”

The Meetings Show is nearly upon us

In a bid to share the benefits of the industry event, which takes place at ExCeL London on 28-29 June, Meetings and Incentive Travel magazine (M&IT) has shared ’10 reasons to attend The Meetings Show 2023′.

From pre-show experiences to learning with a difference, and lots more, check out the highlights planned for this year’s show

Posted on

What Belfast can offer for meetings and events

Our destination features are always popular, but we don’t pretend to always know absolutely everything about every city. There will always be hidden nuggets that others will know. With that in mind, we reached out to the team at ICC Belfast for their insight into one of Ireland’s most exciting cities.

With historical significance on every corner, unique dining experiences, bustling tourist hotspots and iconic hotels, Belfast provides a truly unique backdrop for event planners to create a world-class experience. Head of Sales and Marketing for ICC Belfast, Marie-Claire McGreevy reveals all…

Sustainable city 

Following the 2021 launch of Belfast’s first resilience strategy and climate plan, an ambitious goal ‘to transition to an inclusive, zero emissions economy in a generation.’ has been set comprising 30 transformational programmes to future-proof the city. In partnership with Visit Belfast and Belfast City Council, ICC Belfast has committed to the development of a sustainable tourism plan as one of the resilience strategy transformational programmes.

Visit Belfast have a dedicated sustainability and impact manager to support and collaborate with event profs on bespoke initiatives to deliver on specific SDGs. In addition to being ranked 8th worldwide in the Global Destinations Sustainability Index, Visit Belfast is tackling food poverty and homelessness in Northern Ireland through its social impact project, Changing the Menu. For Good., which received the 2022 GDS-Movement’s Innovation Award.

69% of all hotel bedrooms in Belfast City Centre are Green tourism accredited. ICC Belfast, the city’s convention centre has achieved a Silver Green Meetings Award and was the first venue on the island of Ireland to be awarded this accreditation.

Sustainable Belfast

Award-winning

The city rivals competitors with aplomb. Further investment through the Belfast City Region Deal in tourism-led projects such as Belfast Stories illustrates the growing confidence in NI following the 2016 unveiling of the convention centre’s £29.5M extended facilities.

Securing the top spot for ‘Best Conference Destination’ for 2022 at the highly influential Conference & Incentive Travel (C&IT) Awards in London for a second year in a row, Belfast sidestepped the global competition yet again as an ambitious destination that continues to exceed industry expectations.

Northern Ireland’s premier conference venue, ICC Belfast, was also shortlisted as the UK’s ‘Best Venue’ for events for 2022 for a fifth consecutive year, confirming a leading industry reputation for high calibre staff, cutting-edge innovation and a driving focus on sustainability. ICC Belfast has also held prestigious titles such as the Conference and Event Awards Best Large-Scale Event Venue and Event Technology Awards’ Most Innovative and Tech-Friendly Venue.

Accreditations and affiliations

Compact without compromise

Belfast is a compact city meaning it is often possible to walk between hotels and venues or key attractions. However, for guests who travel slightly further, there are over 70 hydrogen buses and gliders servicing public transport routes across Belfast and the national transport provider has set an ambitious target to reach Net Zero in 2030.

The city has also introduced various accessibility enhancements across to support increased participation, and deliver on its promise of being a destination that celebrates diversity and champions inclusivity.

In partnership with The Harkin Institute for Public Policy & Citizen Engagement and the Department for Communities as lead sponsor, Belfast welcomed delegates to positively reframe the narrative on approaching, supporting and enabling persons with disabilities to achieve their career goals when it hosted the Harkin Summit in June 2022.

Transformational change

To ensure a successful set up and event, Belfast underwent leading transformational change before, during and post Summit to be an accessible diverse and inclusive host destination. This included over 80% of ICC Belfast staff and 100% of Visit Belfast visitor servicing staff completing JAM Card training which allows customers to communicate their accessibility needs discreetly, highlighting that they may need a little extra time and patience during their visit.

To allow maximum space and comfort for delegates, a permanent Changing Place was also installed by SYNC Living in the Riverside Foyer area of ICC Belfast, which includes a peninsular toilet, grab rails and a changing bench for visitors requiring additional support.

Over 260 hospitality and tourism professionals in Belfast are now trained in inclusion. The training video, curated by Visit Belfast and NOW Group, was developed specifically for the Harkin Summit and will be rolled out across the city’s tourism and hospitality sector to improve inclusion across the wider industry.

A further legacy initiative of Harkin Belfast was the development of a Social Narrative Access Video to support delegates in navigating their surroundings at ICC Belfast. The video, which covers arrival and complete access to the venue was produced by disabled-led arts charity, University of Atypical.

Harkin Belfast legacy

Under the Northern Ireland Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey’s direction, the Harkin Belfast legacy initiatives also include 300 ring-fenced employment opportunities for young disabled people, 100 mentoring sessions delivered during the Summit, an eight-week Entrepreneurship Course for young people with disabilities in collaboration with the British Council and a Dragons’ Den for disability led enterprises sponsored by Ulster Bank.

Belfast City Council, as part of the new Belfast tourism strategy, will also be rolling out an accessible tourism programme to build capacity and skills within the tourism sector.

The City of Belfast will continue to utilise the Harkin Summit to learn from global best practice, as a catalyst for further progress and to inform future policy work and initiatives in this area.

Harkin Belfast case study

Sectoral excellence

Northern Ireland is a powerhouse of innovation and talent. World-leading in cyber security, advanced manufacturing, fintech, life and health sciences and creative industries; Belfast is now ranked in the top 100 international meeting destinations globally. (International Congress and Conventions Association 2023).

The region’s compact size is its strength – home to a dynamic eco-system of SMEs, start-ups and 1,200 global corporations who all come together to welcome business events and meetings to Northern Ireland.

Cyber Security Hub

Belfast is fast becoming a global cyber security hub making ICC Belfast the obvious host venue choice for the National Cyber Security Centre’s (NCSC) flagship conference, CYBERUK.

In April 2023, Northern Ireland celebrated the 25th Anniversary of the Belfast Good Friday Agreement. Events marking this historic event across the region highlighted how the foundations of the Peace Process accelerated the prosperous Northern Ireland economy and opened up opportunities for hosting global events like CYBERUK. Belfast’s remarkable business transformation is a testament to the promises made by British, Irish and International Leaders when they signed the agreement in 1998. The city is now considered a centre of excellence for cyber security with prime investment from US firms alongside world-class research at Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University.

David Crozier, Head of Strategic Partnerships and Engagement at the Centre for Secure Information Technologies (CSIT) at Queen’s University Belfast spoke recently about how Belfast is playing a pivotal part in the UK’s cyber journey:

“In 2009 when Belfast set out to incubate and grow a world-leading cyber security ecosystem, few people took it seriously. In that time, CSIT led the foundation of a research-led cyber security community that has brought on partners from government, industry, entrepreneurship, and the venture capital community to create a vibrant ecosystem that is driving societal and economic impact regionally, nationally, and internationally.”

David Crozier thought leadership

Hybrid hero

With large-scale hybrid conferences now the norm, ICC Belfast is well established as a market leader with a reputation for innovation thanks to Tourism Northern Ireland’s Experience Development Programme.

Following a successful application, ICC Belfast’s technical infrastructure has expanded significantly, and the convention centre is now fully hybrid by design. Technological enhancements made include 4K PTZ BirdDog P400 cameras in every meeting space as well as a suite of encoders and decoders to allow connectivity between video sources and NDI installation across the venue controlled by a central ‘gallery control’ allowing full vision mixing and streaming of spaces.

The interactivity of conferences has increased exponentially too, with remote and in-person delegates using a hybrid delegate platform to influence discussions and content themes through live Q & A sessions, polls and gamification.

Hybrid events

A Giant welcome

From sea to sky Northern Ireland offers something special. Exceptional giant coastlines meet sublime mountains with eight Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty on its doorstep.

Belfast City Centre offers plenty to see and do from the iconic Titanic Belfast to lush Botanical Gardens and history on every corner.

From Michelin Star restaurants to St. George’s Market and artisan cafes, Belfast’s food scene has something to delight even the most discerning palate.

Beyond the city visitors can embrace Northern Ireland’s Giant Spirit too by taking a drive along the Causeway Coastal Route. Or, if you’re a fan of the hit TV show why not become an honorary Derry Girl and visit all the main filming locations?

Attractions

For more on Belfast and other venues available for meetings and events, check out our Belfast profile.

Posted on

Grand spaces – venues that make a statement

EDGE Venues has located some of the most beautiful, picturesque grand spaces with glorious features to catch your eye.

From bold magnificent lighting to flowing sculptures and architecture, these venues will leave you spoilt for choice!

Church House Westminster

The Church House Westminster is a beautiful venue located in central London and has 19 spacious meeting rooms. The grade II listed venue boasts a statement exterior with large architectural features and flows through to a large stone lobby with bright lighting and beautiful original features.

Church House Westminster

The large meeting rooms have space for up to 664 delegates and provide a mixture of flexible spaces for all kinds of event sizes, from conferences and big group gatherings to small teambuilding exercises and intimate group gatherings.

The main meeting space within the venue is a spectacular dome-shaped structure with arched glass windows and streams of natural light. The flexible space has a creative light feature allowing brands to adapt the lighting colour within the space to match their colour palate, adding a unique focal point to each event.

The Castle Hotel Windsor

The Castle Hotel Windsor is a glamorous historic hotel with a stylish atmosphere. The beautiful venue boasts a traditional, glamorous exterior and accommodates up to 400 guests. Despite being slightly smaller than some of the other grand venues, the event spaces are flexible, dynamic, and modern, providing adequate space for a selection of events.

The Castle Hotel Windsor

The sought-after venue boasts salubrious spaces including a restaurant, bar, and sophisticated lounge area for guests. Each of the hotel’s grand spaces has a distinct character and a mix of traditional features with a modern décor displayed throughout. It truly is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Windsor.

De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms

The De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms is one of London’s most superior and in-demand locations. Boasting over 30 large meeting rooms, the selection of spaces is unmatched by other venues. The unique venue offers distinct architecture and a range of different spaces, each with a different desired vibe.

De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms

Upon entering the hotel, the foyer has charming stone pillars and a beautifully tiled floor. The main event space is truly breath-taking, with magnificent, mirrored walls, intricate ceiling designs and numerous chandeliers lining the length of the space. The DeVere Grand Connaught is a very special venue and has endless amounts of wow factor!

BMA House

This leading London venue is full of character. The bold original features offer a unique element to a traditional space. Surrounding a beautiful courtyard, the venue boasts 21 large meeting spaces, each with a unique layout and décor, creating a strong personality throughout the space.

BMA House

With glass arched doors and bright lighting provided by original lighting features, the venue is incredibly versatile and spacious providing an ideal setting for any event.

Glaziers Hall

The Glaziers Hall London is a magnificent venue. Accommodating up to 450 guests with 7 spacious meeting rooms, this venue offers unique spaces for everyone to enjoy.

London Bridge Arches

One of the main event spaces named the London Bridge Arches is situated in the basement of the venue. It has an effortless brickwork finish, providing a rustic atmosphere and picturesque finish for a memorable event. The upstairs spaces have magnificent windows with 360 views of the river Thames. They offer room for flexible events as they can be used in conjunction and separately.

The Royal Horseguards and One Whitehall Place

The Royal Horseguards and One Whitehall Place is an endearing historic venue with effortlessly high ceilings throughout and a grand traditional décor. One of the grand event spaces oozes charm and elegance with floor-to-ceiling length bookshelves surrounding the room and spectacular light features in the centre of the room.

The Royal Horseguards and One Whitehall Place

There are smaller, more intimate meeting rooms, one being situated in the basement of the building, giving a wine cellar setting. With 16 meeting rooms, such a selection of spaces is bound to please delegates!

Dunston Hall

Dunston Hall, located in Norfolk has a grand entrance with a turning circle driveway outside. The hotel sits very proudly, showing off its beautiful red brick exterior and vast garden and greenery. The meeting rooms are airy and bright with maximised lighting throughout as well as panelling on some of the walls, providing a traditional atmosphere.

Dunston Hall

The venue boasts a homely bar and lounge with wooden features and the bedrooms boast magnificent four-poster beds. The main focal point of this venue is the jaw-dropping exterior and large green spaces as well as a driving range.

De Vere Tortworth Court

This venue is truly spectacular! Set amongst 30 acres, the Victorian-style mansion boasts luxury from the second you walk in. The foyer is home to a grand wooden staircase, curling around the walls. The décor is a perfect combination of traditional and modern, historical and stylish. The ceiling height throughout the mansion is amazing. It truly feels as though the outside is brought into this bright, spacious venue.

De Vere Tortworth Court

With 14 glorious event spaces, guests are spoiled for choice! One of the most eye-catching spaces is the Orangery located on the ground floor of the mansion. The orangery has traditional stone walls, showcasing an entire glass roof to capture the natural light and the essence of the surrounding nature. This venue will undoubtedly create an unforgettable event.

The Dilly

The Dilly, London is a glamorous venue with a contemporary style throughout. The main entrance comprises a turning door and bold dark blue walls captivating guests and creating a sensual atmosphere.

The Dilly

The top floor accommodates a large lounge space with glass window features and an abundance of natural light and down below, the elegant large event spaces give a sense of royalty with chandeliers and wooden carved-out walls. There is also a bar area overlooking the foyer, offering guests a wide selection of spaces to accommodate all their needs!

These are some of our favourite grand venues, certain to create that wow factor for the right event! Each with unique features and quirks, these venues make an incredible statement and add character and personality to your event!

Posted on

Coventry – the young and diverse city

Coventry

This beautiful historical city in the West Midlands is an area known for its bustling atmosphere. With stunning architecture and deep history, Coventry is a captivating location for global event profs and delegates.

Here are some reasons why.

Diversity

Coventry is a diverse city with a relatively young population. According to coventry.gov.uk, the city’s median age is 35 years compared to the UK average of 40 years.

What’s more, the city’s population has grown, particularly amongst younger adults, alongside the growth and success of the city’s two universities. The educational settings are attracting students locally and internationally, alongside better-paid jobs in certain sectors of the local economy.

coventry.gov.uk also tells us that the city has become increasingly ethnically diverse in the last decade, with ‘just under half of its school-aged population from an ethnic minority background in 2021; up from around one-third of the city’s population from an ethnic minority background at the 2011 census.’

Heritage to learn from

Coventry, a city in the West Midlands, is rich in history and heritage. In Roman times, Coventry was one of the country’s main medieval market towns, visited by many.

Its most significant chapter unfolded during World War II when the city suffered heavy bombing, destroying its iconic cathedral. Enemy bombs also hit a medieval church, central library and many public buildings. 

The city has resurrected many of its once-demolished buildings, but the memory remains. Visitors can learn more about Coventry and its heritage at The Herbert Art Gallery and the war memorial park.

Lovely restaurants & bars

Coventry has a wide selection of restaurants and bars for people looking to wine and dine in the city. Queens Road Mediterranean Kitchen is one of the city’s favourite Mediterranean restaurants. Specialising in local products, the restaurant provides a welcoming environment for all guests and even has a sophisticated lounge bar.

The Bull’s Head is a traditional bar and grill in the city and is well known for providing mouth-watering pub food on a budget! With a stylish revamped modern interior, this pub is the perfect place to unwind after a busy week.

If you’re after a cold refreshing cocktail, Coventry is home to a selection of cocktail bars, from chains such as Slug and Lettuce to traditional places such as The Cosy Club, Coventry has something for everyone!

A fantastic selection of venues

Coventry Conferences Techno Centre

The Coventry Conference Techno Centre is a well-known venue for conferences, meetings, and events. Set in the centre of Coventry, the venue offers modern, stylish venues to accommodate varying group sizes. With its modern vibe and close transport links, the Technocentre provides the perfect experience for delegates looking for an incredible venue in this beautiful city.

Best Western Plus Windmill Village Hotel, Golf Club & Spa

Located on the A45, The Best Western Windmill Village Hotel is perfect for delegates to easily access and come together for conferences, team-building events, and small intimate gatherings. With 105 bedrooms and 7 meeting rooms complete with a selection of amenities, the hotel also boasts free on-site parking, two restaurants, a golf course and more to keep guests entertained!

MTC Conferences & Events

The MTC Conferences and Events is located on the outskirts of Coventry, just a few minutes from the M6. This venue offers a selection of versatile event spaces for delegates to use and state-of-the-art facilities. The venue is set in stunning architectural surroundings, providing the perfect backdrop for events of all sizes. The MTC is 6 miles outside the centre of Coventry which has excellent transport facilities and an airport only 20 minutes away. The venue also boasts an onsite restaurant and car park.

Lea Marston Hotel

The Lea Marston Hotel has a selection of easily accessible transport links, with the airport and M6 Toll under 15 minutes away. The hotel boasts 12 spacious meeting rooms and 119 bedrooms for delegates. Set beautifully in 50 acres of countryside the Lea Marston Hotel is a stunning venue with excellent on-site facilities.

Coventry is a fantastic choice of event location, with its range of hotel facilities and friendly atmosphere. The city’s prime location provides easy access for attendees from across the country to reach. There is a wide selection of state-of-the-art venues which ensure that Coventry stands out amongst the competition for providing memorable events!

To find out more, check out our Coventry destination page.

Posted on

Meeting in the North East? Try Newcastle

Newcastle is a popular city in the north east of England. This vibrant location is known for its friendly atmosphere, captivating charm, prevalent football culture, and many historical landmarks. It is beautifully situated on the River Tyne and offers a selection of restaurants, bars, venues and activities for business travellers to experience.

Here, we share more reasons to meet in Newcastle!

Abundance of North East nature

From the small, peaceful Leazes Park to the Exhibition Park, Newcastle’s green spaces are vital to ensure city-goers can enjoy the outdoors, alongside a bustling city life.

Newcastle is beautiful and blessed with a selection of parklands and open green spaces to enjoy. The Northumberland National Park is right on the city’s doorstep and provides the perfect opportunity for a walking meeting or some post-conference fresh air.

The city is also home to the beautiful Jesmond Dene Park. This picturesque little park is sprinkled with paths, water features and picnic spots.

Culture

From art galleries to industrial buildings, Newcastle’s culture helps visitors to get a feel for the heritage of the beautiful city. One of the city’s leading attractions is the Baltic Centre. Opening in 2002, this Exhibition Centre offers visitors insight into the city’s contemporary art.

The Discovery Centre is another perfect way for visitors to understand the Newcastle’s history and the story of its industrial revolution. Culture has played a key role in the city’s growth over the years, and by being known as the social hub of the North East, Newcastle has transformed itself into one of the UK’s most popular locations.

The food and drink scene!

Newcastle has a wide selection of food and drink locations. From pubs to 5-star restaurants and famous cocktail bars, this English city has something for everyone’s taste!

House of Tides is one of the city’s most popular dinner destinations. Located in an old historic building, this Michelin-star restaurant provides fine dining food with a tasting menu to die for!

If you’re looking for more classic and traditional food, 21 and the Broad Chare provides some pub staples and the meals you’ve been craving! For a taste of Newcastle, the Saltwater Fish Company offers some of the city’s most beautiful seafood and is not one to be missed!

Jalou, Aveika and Central Oven & Shaker are all amazing, unique cocktail bars to visit in Newcastle during your stay, and if your delegates fancy more of a traditional pub environment then the brewpub and eatery, Bridge Tavern sat under the North East’s iconic The Tyne Bridge, is the place!

Gorgeous venues

Royal Station Hotel

As in the name, the Royal Station Hotel is located next to the central station in the city. With 145 bedrooms and 10 grand meeting rooms, this venue is ideal for large groups of delegates, with plenty of spaces to choose from.

The hotel has excellent transport links with the nearest airport being only a 20-minute drive away, on top of this, its central location provides a perfect base for guests to discover the city. The Royal Station Hotel boasts its elegant Victorian-style structure and provides an ideal space for meetings and conferences.

Hilton Newcastle Gateshead

The Hilton Newcastle Gateshead is a sophisticated hotel providing comfort to guests throughout their stay. Situated on the banks of the notorious quayside, the hotel provides beautiful views of the river and a relaxed atmosphere for guests.

The hotel has a central location allowing guests to have access to local bars restaurants and entertainment centres throughout their stay! With 254 bedrooms, 13 large meeting rooms, a swimming pool, steam room and sauna on-site, guests will always be amused!

Grand Hotel Gosforth Park Newcastle

The Grand Hotel Gosforth Park is a large venue located on the outskirts of the city. Situated near Gosforth Park and Gosforth golf club, it is surrounded by green spaces and areas of nature to enjoy.

The Grand Hotel is 11 minutes away from the nearest airport and is equipped with a restaurant, gym, swimming pool and squash court on-site to entertain guests! The hotel has 232 bedrooms and 14 spacious meeting rooms which are perfect for any event from large conferences to small intimate team meetings!

Newcastle is a beautiful city that will capture your heart, providing the perfect location for delegates to get together! From its range of venues and picturesque green spaces to luxury cocktail bars and culture, Newcastle has something for everyone!

Posted on

Why consider Cardiff for your next event…

Cardiff

If you fancy planning a meeting a little off the beaten track, the beautiful city of Cardiff should be high on your list of destinations. The Welsh capital is a bustling city with an abundance of culture and historical values as well as a range of activities to keep visitors busy!

From castle tours to white-water rafting, the list of must-sees and do’s for considering this city as a destination is endless! Keep reading to find out some of the reasons to you should consider Cardiff for your next event!

Delicious Cuisine 

Cardiff is known for its immaculate cuisine, with a selection of delicious dining and drinking options, the city has something to offer everyone – Whether you’re a cocktail lover or a pub diner enthusiast.

For an unforgettable culinary experience, look no further than the Pasture Restaurant. This chic, 5-star restaurant is in the heart of Cardiff and provides a relaxed atmosphere for guests. The Pasture offers an enticing menu serving mouth-watering charcoal grilled steaks as well as craft beer and tasteful cocktails.

If you’re looking for traditional Welsh cuisine, look no further than the Potted Pig. Located underground in former bank vaults beneath the city, this restaurant and gin bar create an unforgettable experience for guests. Serving a mix of traditional and modern food, the potted pig is loved by locals and tourists alike.

If you are a craft beer lover, don’t miss out on the Tiny Rebel Cardiff. This craft brewery opened in 2013 and provides service second to none in the city. With a tasteful brickwork interior and regular live music performances alongside a selection of delicious beers and bar food, this bar is a great choice. Don’t miss their award-winning catch red ale, a true Welsh gem!

Lastly, if you’re after a delicious fruity cocktail, the Cocktail Club Cardiff is the place to be! Set across three floors, the well-known cocktail bar has something for everyone’s taste! The bar also serves a bottomless brunch including bingo, entertainment, and a selection of prizes to be won! The cocktail club is the perfect place to let your hair down in the city!

These are just a few options to consider if you wanted to take your event out of the main venue for evening entertainment.

Cultural Attractions

The vibrant city has endless cultural attractions to see, from a visit to the glorious castle, to a walk along the river Taff. If you want to build some tourist attractions into your event then Cardiff has you covered.

For those who are curious about Welsh history, St Fagan’s – The National History Museum – is the ideal location to explore the history, architecture, culture and traditions of the Welsh. This is a beautiful open aired museum spread across acres of parkland, also including a farm, old fashioned shops and a pottery making class for tourists!

Lovely Beaches

Barry Island is located very close to the city centre, only a short train ride away. This is a big tourist attraction in the area, featuring a large promenade and a beautiful sandy beach in Whitmore Bay. The area includes obligatory amusement arcades and 24 vibrantly coloured beach huts available for daily hire as well as a climbing wall and various events through the year!

The famous UK television show Gavin and Stacey was filmed in Barry Island so some fans may eagerly recognise it!

Let’s not forget the Venues!

ICC Wales

The ICC Wales is in Newport and is a top contender for one the best meeting facilities in Cardiff! The venue is a popular choice for conferences, exhibitions, and events. It provides a flowing, positive experience for attendees due to its state-of-the-art advanced technology, cutting-edge facilities and versatile spaces.

With its 15 spacious, elegant meeting rooms and a selection of onsite amenities including a coffee shop, an adventure golf centre, tree trekking facilities and more! The ICC Wales attracts global gatherings, ensuring a successful and memorable event.

Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre

With an excellent location in the centre of the vibrant city, Holiday Inn Cardiff is located perfectly for sightseeing and exploring what the city has to offer! The hotel boasts 157 comfortable and relaxing rooms to accommodate guests as well as 11 spacious meeting rooms. Perfect for conferences, group meetings and team building events in the city.

The hotel is known for its friendly staff and reliable reputation amongst guests who can make use of the selection of amenities available including the on-site restaurant, the stylish bar, and the onsite gym. Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre is a comfortable hotel providing a pleasant and enjoyable stay for visitors.

The Parkgate Hotel

The Parkgate Hotel Cardiff is Cardiff’s finest hotel, a unique boutique hotel situated in the bustling city centre. With its stylish eye-catching interior and luxurious atmosphere, this hotel is ideal for travellers looking for a unique experience during their stay!

The elegant hotel has beautifully designed rooms with glamorous furnishings throughout to add to the sophisticated vibe! With 169 modern bedrooms and 2 spacious meeting rooms the hotel boats plenty of space for both meetings and conferences. Bringing elegance into historical buildings, the Parkgate Hotel is a classy venue, providing a bar, restaurant, and thermal suites for guests to indulge in.

Radisson Blu Hotel Cardiff

The Radisson Blu Hotel Cardiff is in the heart of the Welsh city. Having such a central location makes this venue ideal for hosting events and conferences as it is easily accessible for delegates staying in various locations across the city. The hotel is in close proximity to many major tourist attractions, shopping centres, and entertainment venues, providing a thrilling stay for guests.

The hotel features 215 modern rooms as well as 6 large meeting spaces, ideal for group training events, conferences, and small group gatherings. The hotel boasts an on-site restaurant, bar, and fitness centre for guests to enjoy during their stay.

Cardiff is a truly vibrant city with a grand selection of venues and activities to try out during your stay! Endless entertainment and a selection of beautiful hotels will leave you eager to return to this beautiful city!

Posted on

Are you ready to start thinking about Christmas parties?

Christmas Parties

We’ve had the Coronation of the King, Eurovision and the BAFTAs, all in the last couple of weeks. Now it’s time to start thinking about Christmas parties.

Yes, we know it’s only May, but we also know that Christmas always creeps up on us. Therefore, getting your Christmas party venue organised early is vital, especially if you have your eye on a popular venue.

Things to consider when planning for Christmas Parties

With everyone having hectic schedules, getting a date in the diary is a must!

When looking at options for your venue, there are a few key factors which you should consider. These factors include the layout and size of the venue, it’s location, accessibility, availability and of course the cost of the venue. By carefully considering all of your options, you can create select the perfect venue to ensure that the event is a huge success.

We’ve put together a list of some of our favourite venues which would be ideal for a festive Christmas party. Please note this list is by no means exhaustive, and our friendly Venue Procurement Team are on hand to help.

The Grand Hotel York

The Grand Hotel York is a stunning 5-star hotel in the heart of the historical city. This beautiful Edwardian building offers luxurious accommodation and a range of dining options. With its elegant interiors, the Grand Hotel York provides the perfect setting for a Christmas party that will impress your guests.

The hotel offers festive packages such as exclusive party nights. With its central location and exceptional facilities, the Grand Hotel York is a great choice for a memorable Christmas celebration.

Ellenborough Park

Ellenborough Park is country estate situated in the beautiful Cotswolds countryside. The hotel boasts stunning views, luxurious accommodations, and excellent dining options. With it’s beautiful scenery, impeccable service and attention to detail, Ellenborough Park is sure to provide a magical Christmas celebration for your guests.

Pavilions of Harrogate

Pavilions of Harrogate is a stylish venue located in the heart of Harrogate. The venue boasts modern and flexible event spaces, perfect for hosting Christmas parties of all sizes. With its stunning scenic surroundings, Pavilions of Harrogate offers a unique and memorable setting for your Christmas celebration.

With established catering services available, Pavilions of Harrogate is the perfect choice for a fun and festive Christmas party that your guests will love.

BMA House

BMA House is a stunning building located in central London. It is a prestigious venue for Christmas parties with flexible event spaces for all group sizes. With its beautiful architecture, the venue provides the perfect setting for any festive event. BMA has an expert in-house catering team, creating delicious meals over the festive period. BMA House truly is an ideal choice for a memorable and magical Christmas celebration.

Wychwood Park

Wychwood Park is a modern venue set in the stunning Cheshire countryside, offering a unique and picturesque location for a Christmas party. The venue boasts a selection of spaces, including a grand ballroom and private dining rooms. With its expert service, Wychwood Park is the perfect choice for a festive celebration with friends, family, or colleagues.

Wyboston Lakes

Wyboston Lakes is a versatile and modern conference venue, set in 380 acres of stunning countryside on the outskirts of Cambridgeshire. The venue boasts a variety of event spaces, from large conference halls to smaller meeting rooms and private dining areas. Their festive packages include Christmas party nights, festive afternoon tea, and private dining options, catering for groups of all sizes. With excellent dining options and a range of activities available, Wyboston Lakes is the perfect choice for a fun Christmas celebration.

Woodland Grange

Woodland Grange is a stylish conference venue set in the picturesque Warwickshire countryside. The venue offers a range of versatile event spaces, making it an ideal choice for a Christmas party of any size. With its beautiful surroundings and excellent facilities, Woodland Grange provides the perfect setting for a perfect and memorable Christmas celebration.

Getting organised in advance for the venue of your Christmas celebration can save a lot of stress further down the line! Each of these venues have unique features that will create a magical festive vibe and bring your vision to life.