Event venues play a pivotal role in the success of an event. Our expert Reed & Mackay Events team shares a selection of 10 unique venues for meetings and events across the world, to help you avoid boredom in the boardroom.
“We are seeing a trend in requests for event spaces that aren’t located at hotels, with clients looking for ever-more unique venues,” Reed & Mackay Meeting and Events Team Leader Lucy Tomkins says.
“There’s a vast array of requirements our team looks at when sourcing a venue for clients. These include sustainable options and ensuring they are accessible,” Tomkins adds. “Ensuring all guests can enjoy events is critical. We establish exact accessibility requirements and work closely with venues to ensure hearing loops and appropriate AV design is implemented for all event guests.”
“Plus we utilise familiarisation trips and review industry updates regularly to remain ahead of industry trends and to source new venues.”
Osea Island – UK
An hour from London, Osea Island is surrounded by 550 acres of rustic gardens and a salt marsh. Inhabited for more than 5,000 years, the island features remains of neolithic villages and evidence of Viking burials.
With charming cottages, apartments and grand houses, Osea Island can cater for groups of various sizes. Furthermore, the entire island is available for rent. Osea stands out as a versatile and unique venue for meetings or events.
Stuttgart Television Tower – Germany
At more than 217 metres, the Stuttgart Television Tower was the first of its kind in the world and was the inspiration for future towers in Dortmund, Frankfurt and Johannesburg. The event space is located 144 metres above the ground, providing a panoramic view of the Black Forest and Stuttgart.
With the capacity to accommodate 60 people, the Tower is an interesting setting for meetings or corporate functions, while the stunning scenery adds to the experience.
Victorian Bath House – UK
The Victorian Bath House is a Grade II-listed building in the heart of London, dating back to 1817. Ideal for smaller to mid-sized gatherings, the Victorian Bath House can accommodate up to 150 guests.
Decorated with old Turkish motifs and packed with Victorian charm, the Victorian Bath House is a lavish and opulent historic venue that offers a timeless setting for events.
The d’Arenberg Cube – Australia
Overlooking McLaren Vale, the d’Arenberg Cube is 45 minutes from Adelaide and is one of Australia’s most unique venues. Inspired by the complex puzzles of winemaking, the cube has multiple floors for events.
Both the Tasting Room, which offers stunning views over the Gulf St Vincent, and the Dali @ d’Arenberg floor, which features 25 authentic Dali bronze sculptures, can accommodate 100 guests. And, for more intimate events, the Singapore Club and Chef’s Gallery provide vibrant and versatile spaces for up to 60 guests.
Wielicka Salt Mine – Poland
The Wielicka Salt Mines offer an unparalleled event experience. Set deep within the salt mine, event spaces range from 680m2 to 58m2 and are all equipped with state-of-the-art AV equipment.
There are two accommodation options on-site. The Grand Sal Hotel offers a comfortable stay and the underground Slowacki Chamber provides a more immersive experience.
Ice Hotel – Sweden
Since its inception in 1989, the Ice Hotel has captivated visitors. Carved from ice in winter by local artists and left to melt in spring, each version of the hotel is unique and provides a one-of-a-kind experience.
Located 200km above the Arctic Circle and one and a half hours north of Stockholm, the Ice Hotel provides a gateway to Europe’s last wilderness. And, with 276 beds, four meeting rooms and the Arctic Circle on its doorstep, the Ice Hotel is a unique event destination.
Steamboat Natchez – USA
This is the last authentic steamboat to grace the Mississippi River. The Steamboat Natchez offers an immersive experience of the vibrant culture of New Orleans and Louisiana. Plus, decorated with a Victorian interior and traditional steamboat gothic chandeliers, it creates an atmosphere of elegance and charm.
In addition, the boat can cater for events of varying sizes. The main section of the vessel can accommodate 100 to 1,200 passengers. Additionally, the Captain’s Salon – a smaller and more intimate space – can host between 25 to 50 guests.
Château Bouffémont – France
The 19th-century chateau is 30km from the heart of Paris and a 20-minute drive from Charles de Gaulle Airport. Renovated in 2012, the Château Bouffémont blends history with modern luxury. And with nine suites accommodating 27 guests and 300m2 of conference space, the château can support events ranging from 70 to 200 guests.
Moreover, the five hectares of greenery surrounding the château can be utilised for team-building activities.
Cavas Codorníu – Spain
Located 30 minutes from Barcelona, the Cavas Codorníu is a countryside retreat. With event spaces ranging from 100m2 to 2,000m2, Cavas Codorníu can cater for events of varying sizes.
Elsewhere, the audio-visual room is ideal for presentations and conferences as it is equipped with 144 seats and AV equipment. And the expansive main square can be used for banquets and outdoor events. Surrounded by views of the nearby mountains, Casa Codorníu blends natural beauty with its versatile space to create an ideal setting for events.
Nationals Park – USA
Home to the Washington Nationals Major League Baseball team, Nationals Park is a short metro journey from the centre of Washington DC. The indoor and outdoor event spaces can accommodate thousands of guests and are accessible to all.
Furthermore, batting cage and ballpen tours are available. Nationals Park is rich with baseball heritage and is a unique venue for meetings and events.
Did you know?…
Reed & Mackay appoints dedicated event managers to all clients. They support with everything from venue sourcing, entertainment and catering to negotiations with suppliers and in-depth reporting on travel costs, connectivity and CO2 analysis.
Mail hello@reedandmackay.com to discuss all of your travel and event management needs.
