To help you become the host with the most, we’ve found some spectacular venues across Cambridge
Graduate Hotel
Inject an unfiltered feel of Cambridge into your event with this stunning setting. True to its name, the River Suite (which can hold up to 300 people) surrenders flawless views of the water and lavish lawns, making up the riverside garden. The adjoining Rhee Suite bar is also a great spot to grab a refreshing cocktail before or after, whether it’s a wedding reception, packed party or conference. The Cayley Suite is a more secluded space, opening onto the riverside garden – ideal for alfresco affairs and refined summer parties. Reaping the rewards of its attachment to the Garden House restaurant, sample an irresistible menu when you book the private dining room. For trips out of the office, the Bourn Suite may be just the trick.
The LAB
The epitome of glam, this glitzy, 20s-themed bar – set amid the hustle and bustle of Regent Street – is perfect for both work and play. Bring your birthday celebrations to The LAB for free rein of its sumptuous interiors, or network in style while sipping on the bar’s range of carefully crafted cocktails. Tasting experiences are available for sampling its famous liquors and foam-topped tipples. Ideal for lounging in luxury, the deluxe decor and refined, but affordable food packages (starting at £7 per person) make it an all-round win. Seminars, socials or celebrations work equally well at this versatile venue – and an academic rate and discount to charities is also available.
Titchwell Manor
Take the plunge into marriage at this blissful coastal retreat, hidden away amid Norfolk farmland, marshes, sloping dunes and stretching beaches. Whether a close-knit, poignant gathering or more high-spirited event, Titchwell Manor is made to match each occasion. Offering outdoor settings to drink in the staggering nature or an indoor space, there is plenty of room to design the perfect wedding. To create your special day, Titchwell Manor boasts bespoke packages, guiding you through the process – from suppliers for photography and florals, to designing your own cocktails. The award-winning chefs can cook up a tantalising breakfast or evening feast. Plus, there’s cosy accommodation on-site.
Turing Locke
Nestled just outside of the city, Turing Locke is the perfect location for leaving the din behind. With two meeting rooms (aptly named Encryption and Luminosity) flooded with floor-to-ceiling light and airy co-working spaces, the venue has honed the optimum environment in which to focus your team – or simply catch a break from the bustle. Each room can accommodate 30 people, or the two can be merged to offer 68 sq m of area, plenty of space to fit everyone for meetings or private dining. All are kitted out with cutting-edge technology; hybrid connectivity, complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi and 65 and 75in screens are included. After your meeting, seminar or launch party, polish off the day with a visit to the rooftop event space, which has capacity for 150.
The Sancroft Barns
The Sancroft Barns in bucolic Suffolk are steeped in history, and this uniqueness permeates all the events held here. From traces of a Roman marching camp to the still-intact Tudor Barn, the site is brimming with tradition and potential for a tailor-made day. The sprawling expanse of buildings is ideal for hosting ceremonies, receptions and post-wedding parties. Say ‘I do’ in the radiant setting of the beamed barn, followed by rustic dining outside in the stackyard or paddock, under the shelter of a marquee. The gorgeous surrounds of the garden – including the house, moat, ponds and arches – make for stunning photo opportunities.
Mad Hatters Campsite
Get your heady dose of fun at this multipurpose site, whose romps range from madcap afternoon soirees to wayward wild camping. It works wonders for birthday parties of all ages. For adults, there’s a Mad Hatter Tea and Prosecco Party, with optional massage, glitter face-painting, imaginatively adorned cakes, hampers for campers and party bags. Kids can run amok at camping parties, with games aplenty (decorating a top hat and flamingo croquet among them), marshmallow toasting and bushcraft. Hen parties will be imbued with added luxury when booking glamping pods or timber tents, and the party gazebo is decorated down to the finest detail. Options to hire the entire wild camping site, event meadow complete with tipi marquee or festival meadow are also available. Let much silliness ensue.
Longstowe Hall
The resplendent gardens of Longstowe Hall are a magnificent setting for any work do, whether a celebration, gala dinner or launch party – best in summer, when flowers are in full bloom.
Madingley Hall
One of the region’s most impressive, grandiose sites, the stately grounds – replete with unfurling lawns and pruned hedges – make Madingley Hall a conference venue unlike any other.