UK venues make bold moves with innovation, investment and imagination
From childcare at conferences to record-breaking venue collections and new luxury retreats, here’s the latest from the UK’s most dynamic event spaces.
Vue Conferences & Events launches childcare solution for working parents
Cinema chain Vue is introducing ‘Mighty Meetings’, a childcare package for children aged 3–14, allowing parents and carers to attend conferences, training, or corporate events across its 94 UK and Ireland venues. DBS-certified specialists provide supervised activities, crafting, and film screenings, with cinema-themed snacks included.
The service ensures on-site, separate childcare with parental access during breaks, offering flexibility during holidays and half-terms. Available from £1,500, the package complements Vue’s event facilities, including exhibition spaces in Manchester, Birmingham, London, and Nottingham.
Simona Negretto, national conference & events manager, said: "Our package allows businesses to alleviate the issue and take care of their employees with a highly affordable solution, thus minimising their stress and giving ultimate flexibility and inclusivity.emphasizes that this solution supports inclusivity, reduces stress, and enables businesses to host events with greater flexibility."
HAC strengthens reputation as a premier venue for high-level events
Renowned for its military heritage and commitment to discretion, London's Honourable Artillery Company (HAC) is cementing its status as a venue of choice for government briefings, international meetings, and high-security events. Recently, it hosted the Five Country Ministerial, bringing together home affairs ministers from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the US to discuss global security.
Sarah McQueen, director of catering and events, says: “Our heritage means we understand the importance of discretion and making sure every detail is taken care of. It’s a privilege to welcome guests for these important events.”
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Destination Silverstone takes aim at business and hospitality
Silverstone is aiming to become the UK’s leading destination for business and leisure, with motorsport at its heart. A 10-year Formula 1 contract extension fuels investment in world-class facilities and experiences for corporate clients, event organisers, and visitors year-round.
Beyond race weekends, Silverstone hosts MotoGP, European Le Mans Series, CarFest, and supercar driving experiences, immersing guests in motorsport excitement. Its versatile event spaces - including the International Wing, Escapade Silverstone, and the Hilton Garden Inn - cater to conferences, hospitality, and team-building. With cutting-edge facilities and a packed calendar, Silverstone offers unforgettable experiences that combine innovation, entertainment, and corporate excellence, making it more than just a legendary circuit.
Scotland’s newest venue for corporate retreats & away days
Penicuik House is a newly restored, exclusive-use venue within Penicuik Estate, ideal for corporate gatherings, retreats, and away days.
Following a two-year restoration with designer Charles Orchard, the house blends historic charm with eclectic, practical interiors. It offers 16 en suite bedrooms for up to 32 guests, plus versatile spaces including a drawing room, wood-panelled bar and library, cinema, dining room, and fully equipped kitchen.
Outdoors, the Italian courtyard, Rose Garden, and estate trails provide dining, relaxation, and team-building opportunities. Curated experiences include yoga, spa treatments, falconry, and guided heritage tours.
Just 30 minutes from Edinburgh, Penicuik House is perfectly positioned for national and international groups.
Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club expands events offering
The Royal County of Berkshire Polo Club (RCBPC) has broadened its venue hire options, now catering to public, private, and commercial events of up to 10,000 guests, including weddings, corporate functions, festivals, and concerts.
Founded in 1985 by Bryan Morrison, the club has a long association with British polo, with Prince William and Prince Harry having learned the sport there.
The Clubhouse and Royal Pavilion offer indoor and outdoor spaces for smaller gatherings, while the Sponsors’ Area and Lawn can host large-scale outdoor events with marquees, hospitality, and on-site parking.
The club’s grounds have featured in TV and film productions including The Crown and Bridgerton.
Lexi Lea, commercial and operations director, said: “We welcome a really diverse range of events every year.”
RCBPC is now accepting 2026/27 enquiries.
Westminster Venue Collection generates £3.8m in enquiries following record year
Westminster Venue Collection reported a record year ending September 2025, generating £3.8 million in enquiries, up 27 per cent year-on-year. The results were credited to effective marketing, business development, and increased exposure through events like The Meetings Show, London Christmas Party Show, BNC Show, hosted buyer fam trips, and venue safaris.
A redesigned website launched in March 2025, featuring advanced search and shortlisting tools, and has boosted engagement and streamlined enquiries. The Annual Showcase also enabled over 100 event professionals to explore multiple venues efficiently.
New chair Clare Davies said: "Westminster's exceptional venues provide event organisers with unparalleled options in one of the world's most prestigious locations. Our strategic marketing initiatives and industry presence have driven impressive results for our expanding membership."
OVO Arena Wembley builds momentum following Coors Lounge launch
OVO Arena Wembley, managed by Legends Global, is building momentum in the conferences and events market following the launch of its Coors Lounge and a new move to in-house catering.
Opened in spring 2025, the 250 sqm Coors Lounge has already hosted corporate receptions, meetings, and strategy sessions, offering a flexible, premium space for up to 200 guests.
Featuring natural light, lounge seating, and adjacent breakout spaces, the venue suits a range of formats.
Sorrel Ward, sales and marketing director, says: “Clients are responding to the space because it offers something fresh, self-contained and ready-to-go, especially for those looking to meet or entertain in a memorable setting. In addition, bringing catering into the venue team lets us respond faster and design experiences that fit each brief."
BMA House grows education sector conferences with dedicated packages and repeat clients
BMA House is reporting strong growth in conferences and events from the education community, with a variety of universities, associations and training providers choosing the venue for teaching, research and professional development. The team has also expanded day delegate rate options to suit academic budgets and timetables.
Recent and repeat education sector partners include UCL, Imperial College London, University of Bath, Birkbeck University, The College of Optometrists, Researcher to Reader, ISBA, Universities and Colleges Employers Association, Institute for Optimum Nutrition, Steplab, and the German Academic Scholarship Foundation. InvestIN also ran a series of summer lectures in August, bringing students into the venue during a traditionally quieter month.
To serve this growing demand, BMA House is developing an Academic Day Delegate Rate for the education sector. The package is intended for Easter and summer holiday periods when many organisations within the sector run conferences, summer schools and teacher development. Pricing includes an introductory saving of 10 per cent planned for Easter, half term and summer 2026.
