Tag: event venues

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The dos and don’ts of booking last-minute meeting space

Last-minute meetings are often inevitable. Whether it’s an unexpected client pitch or an impromptu team gathering, securing the right meeting space at the last minute can be daunting.

To help you navigate this challenge, here are some crucial dos and don’ts for booking last-minute meeting space.

The Dos

Have a flexible schedule

Flexibility can be your greatest advantage for last-minute meeting space bookings. Openness to different times of day or even alternative dates can increase your chances of finding an available space.

Venues may have gaps in their schedule that they’re willing to fill at a discounted rate.

Make the most of technology

Leverage online tools and platforms to compare spaces quickly. Technology can streamline your search and give you instant access to venue details and pricing.

It can save you valuable time and help you make informed decisions swiftly.

Check out EDGE Venues to see how easy it can be!

Negotiate

Don’t be afraid to negotiate, even if it’s a last-minute booking. Venues may offer discounts to fill an empty meeting or event space, and you could secure a better deal.

Be upfront about your budget and see what they can offer to accommodate your needs.

Our feature on Venue concessions – negotiating what’s best for your event provides some great tips.

Know your requirements from the outset

Understanding exactly what you need—space, amenities, room layout, and location—will make your search more efficient.

Make a checklist of must-haves versus nice-to-haves to ensure the venue meets your requirements.

Check out our feature on Event room layout—choosing the right one—for more on this.

Conduct site visits where feasible

If time permits, visit the venue in person before making your final decision. A site inspection can help you better understand the space, its layout, and the available amenities.

It also gives you the opportunity to address any concerns directly with the venue staff.

For some of our handy tips, check out our Site Inspection Checklist—What to look out for.

The Don’ts

Rush without research

Avoid booking the first available space without proper research, even if time is tight.

Take a few minutes to read reviews, check the venue’s reputation, and ensure it meets your needs. A hasty decision could lead to issues on the day of the meeting.

As an EDGE subscriber, you can take advantage of some site visit insights available on selected properties.  

Overlook the fine print

Read the terms and conditions carefully. Last-minute bookings can come with strict cancellation policies or additional fees.

Before confirming your booking, ensure you understand the total cost and any potential penalties.

Forget to confirm final details

Double-check all details with the venue to avoid any surprises.

Confirm the booking, the room’s setup, the availability of equipment, and any other specific requirements you have. Miscommunication can be costly and disruptive.

Assume availability

Never assume your preferred venue will be available, especially on short notice. Always have a backup plan in case your first choice isn’t an

Neglect your budget

It’s easy to overspend when you’re in a rush. Keep a close eye on your budget and try to stick to it. Remember that additional costs can quickly add up, especially with last-minute bookings.

What to do next? Simplify your last-minute booking with EDGE Venues’ RFP tool

Booking the perfect meeting space, even at the last minute, doesn’t have to be stressful.

Our RFP tool provides clear booking transparency and great comparisons across multiple venues. It helps you make the right decision quickly and efficiently.

Don’t let last-minute meetings catch you off guard – try our RFP tool today and experience hassle-free booking!

Let EDGE Venues, your global venue sourcing solution, take the stress out of finding the right venue for you.

Register today for free access, or contact Scott or Kirsty to see how our platform can help your agency or business.

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Liverpool venues for meetings and events

Located in the county of Merseyside in Northwest England, Liverpool is a vibrant city, known all over the world for its music scene, football teams, maritime history, culture, friendly faces, and so much more.

Let’s take a closer look, and check out some Liverpool venues…

Did you know?

Liverpool is one of the most filmed locations outside of London, with many TV shows and films using this diverse city as a backdrop.

Recently we have seen the city transformed into Gotham City for The Batman film featuring Robert Pattison. The Birkenhead Tunnel was used as a filming location for Harry Potter and The Deathly Hallows.

And there’s more! Other filming sights which have taken place in this city include The Fantastic Beasts film shooting at Martins Bank, Captain America: The First Avenger filming at Stanley Dock as well as The Peaky Blinders being filmed at St. George’s Hall.

Liverpool Venues

Looking for Liverpool venues? Below is just a small sample of the spaces on offer for your next meeting or event.

Radisson Blu Liverpool

Right in the heart of the business district, but a short stroll from all of Liverpool’s main attractions is Radisson Blu Liverpool. The hotel is home to 194 smart and stylish rooms, free Wi-Fi, and Collage Restaurant where guests can experience a unique twist on the classic British Brasserie.

With a streamlined, minimalistic aesthetic, the hotel has nine conference rooms with everything you need for a successful event. The city centre location offers transportation links to the airport only 15km away, and parking is available within walking distance at NCP car park.

Read more.

Hilton Liverpool City Centre

Situated in the centre of the Liverpool ONE retail and leisure complex, this Liverpool hotel’s location provides easy access to transport links and cultural attractions. From contemporary accommodations to numerous meetings and events opportunities, guests can easily get the most out of their experience. There are 11 air-conditioned function rooms available.

Its situated 20 minutes from Liverpool’s John Lennon airport, 45 minutes from Manchester International airport and just shy of one mile from Liverpool Lime Street station with services to all major cities in the UK.

Read more.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Liverpool City Centre

Delta is home to 146 large bedrooms and suites benefitting from luxurious bedding, with Egyptian cotton linens, to ensure all guests have the best start to their day. Guests also have full use of the hotel’s 24/7 fitness facilities.

Delta’s Merchant Suite is one of nine well-appointed meeting spaces and can cater for up to 240 guests in a theatre style layout. The suite is spacious and pillar free and has floor-to-ceiling windows offering natural daylight. The balcony terrace attached is also the perfect setting for pre-dinner drinks or BBQ themed events in the summer and overlooks the vibrant Queen Square.

Read more.

Pullman Liverpool Hotel

Stylish, elegant, and sophisticated, Pullman Liverpool is much more than a place to stay. Pullman is located on King’s Dock onsite with M&S Bank Arena, ACC Liverpool & Exhibition Centre Liverpool, making it a perfect spot to stay after an event at these venues. The hotel also has the Pullman Restaurant, Bar, and stunning lobby onsite, providing the perfect backdrop to connect with people.

Pullman Liverpool has 216 bedrooms, three flexible meeting rooms, fitness lounge as well as on-site baby grand piano and restaurant. At Pullman Liverpool there are several fully flexible meeting spaces, all including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi with capacity for 2 – 100 delegates.

Read more.

Crabwall Manor Hotel and Spa

Crabwall Manor Hotel and Spa is a historic 17th Century manor house just a short drive from Chester city centre and a stone’s throw from Liverpool. The Manor is a four star country house hotel, just two miles north of historical Chester and 25 miles from bustling Liverpool.

Crabwall Manor has 55 bedrooms and four air-conditioned meeting rooms, all with ground floor access and which can accommodate from 2 to 100 delegates.

Read more.

Interested in any of these venues? Check them out via the links underneath their introductions above. And if you would like to find out more about Liverpool venues or spaces in other locations, please get in touch.

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Sensory-friendly events – are your events inclusive and welcoming?

Inclusivity is a crucial commitment to ensuring each individual can enjoy and participate in your events regardless of their unique needs. And it means your attendees benefit from the ideas and input of those who may otherwise avoid your events!

Here, we explore the concept of sensory-friendly events and share the importance of ensuring events are welcoming for everyone.

Understanding sensory sensitivities

Sensory sensitivities can affect individuals on various levels. For some, loud noises may be overwhelming. For others, bright lights might be distressing. 

People with autism, sensory processing disorder, or anxiety often experience these sensitivities. By recognising and addressing them, we can create an environment where all attendees feel comfortable and valued.

The importance of sensory-friendly events

Hosting sensory-friendly events goes beyond being accommodating to creating an atmosphere of understanding and acceptance. Such events cater to those with sensory sensitivities and demonstrate your commitment to creating inclusive spaces for everyone. 

Embracing diversity and actively working to create sensory-friendly experiences, you send a powerful message that you value each attendee’s contributions.

EDGE Venues spoke to Daniel Brooke, Director of Neurodiversity Specialists, for her thoughts on the importance of sensory-friendly events:

“Incorporating inclusivity and sensory-friendly activities holds paramount importance in the meetings and events industry, particularly for neurodivergent individuals.

“By designing events that consider a wide range of sensory sensitivities and preferences, we ensure that neurodivergent participants can fully engage and contribute.

“Creating an environment that minimises sensory overload and respects individual needs fosters a sense of acceptance and empowerment. Such inclusive practices enhance the event experience for neurodiverse attendees and set a progressive precedent for the industry.

“Through embracing neurodiversity, we drive innovation and lead the way in creating truly accessible and enriching event spaces.”

Daniel Brooke, Director, Neurodiversity Specialists

Creating sensory-friendly events

1. Communication

Clearly communicate to attendees that your event is sensory-friendly. Provide information about the event’s sensory-friendly features, such as lower noise levels, dimmed lighting, and designated quiet spaces. This will help set expectations and reassure attendees that their comfort is a priority.

2. Venue Considerations

When selecting a venue, opt for spaces that offer flexibility in terms of lighting and sound. The ability to adjust these factors can greatly contribute to creating a sensory-friendly environment. Additionally, ensure your venue is easily accessible for individuals with mobility challenges.

3. Lighting

Use soft, diffused lighting to create a comfortable ambience. Avoid harsh spotlights or flashing lights that could cause discomfort. Consider incorporating natural light, as it tends to be gentler on the senses.

4. Sound

Control noise levels by utilising sound-absorbing materials such as carpets, drapes, and panels. Implement a quiet hour or designated quiet zones where attendees can retreat if they need a break from sensory stimulation.

5. Sensory breaks

This goes hand-in-hand with sound management. Designate quiet, comfortable spaces where attendees can take a break if they get overwhelmed.

6. Visual aids

Provide visual schedules or guides outlining the event’s timeline and activities. Visual aids can help individuals with sensory sensitivities better understand what to expect, reducing anxiety and uncertainty.

Some examples

An example of a brand that does sensory-friendly events well is Cineworld. At selected branches across the UK, they hold autism-friendly screenings with low lights and reduced volume. Individuals are welcome to bring their own food and drink and can move around the cinema if they like.

Cineworld has options to host a private screening for just you and your delegates. What’s more, with their sensory-friendly facilities, every delegate can enjoy the experience.

Many UK museums also have facilities to host neurodiverse individuals, whether they are just visiting or attending an event. 

The V&A Museum, National Galleries of Scotland, Dynamic Earth, National Museums Liverpool, and the Natural History Museum to name a few, all have facilities to reduce lighting and volume, hand out sensory packs. And some have quiet rooms. These venues all hold regular sensory-friendly days for those just visiting – they’re a good way to check out the facilities before booking an event.

Improvement

After hosting a sensory-friendly event, seek feedback from attendees to gain insights into their experiences. This information can be invaluable in refining your approach and making future events even more inclusive. Remember, the goal is not perfection but an ongoing commitment to learning and adapting.

Creating sensory-friendly events indicates commitment to, and understanding of, diversity – and prioritising the comfort and enjoyment of all your event attendees. And thoughtful strategies to accommodate sensory sensitivities creates memorable experiences while developing inclusivity that resonates long after the event ends. 

We take pride in supporting those hosting more accessible and welcoming events for everyone. If you would like to find out more, please get in touch.

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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.