Venue Spotlight By Conference Care
CONTENTS
Introducing StayWise Accommodation
This Month's Feature
Hottest Venue
Venue For Good
Social Space
The Roundup
Put a Pin In It...
SALLY MCNAMARA INTRODUCTING STAYWISE
We hand over to Sally to introduce our new travel & accommodation solution - StayWise, and spotlight some of her favourite accommodation options.
PAULINE BEATTIE FEATURED VENUE
Join Pauline at AO Arena in Manchester, as she explores all possibilities of this huge, flexible venue in the heart of the city.
In this issue, we’re proud to introduce our new travel and accommodation solutionStayWise. Our specialist - Sally McNamara - reviews some of her favourite accommodation solutions across the UK. We take a trip to Manchester to look at the AO arena and the surrounding accommodation options.
Meanwhile other members of our team travel up to Scotland to review some incredible venues in Edinburgh and Glasgow. Plus, we have a special social space feature, spanning over a dozen locations across the country.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick a location and get started...
BETH HANSON VENUE FOR GOOD
Our sustainability guru, Beth Hanson, reviews Concord Conference Centre - a Venue For Good that packs a punch with a luxury airliner at its centre.
SARAH HUCKERBY SOCIAL SPACE
Check out some of the best hangout spots across the country with Sarah as she takes us all over with her review of Roxy Ball Rooms
REBECCA HOLLIS HOTTEST VENUE
Becki is spending her time up in a Treehouse Treehouse Manchester, to be more specific. See why this venue is her choice for this edition’s hottest new venue!
EdinburghCastle–15minutewalk
StJamesQuarterShoppingCentre–12minutewalk WaverleyTrainStation–10minutewalk
THIS MONTH'S FEATURE
VENUESUMMARY
The AO Arena has a long history of hosting some of the best music and live entertainment events in Manchester
However, this staggering venue isn’t just a place to enjoy large-scale entertainment It’s the perfect space for a whole range of events, from international conferences and product launches to private dinners and meetings
If you’re unfamiliar with AO Arena, it is located within the Victoria Station complex in the city centre The other local station, Manchester Piccadilly, is a short walk away You can also get the tram from Rochdale, Bury, Altrincham, and the Airport
You have a variety of accommodation options nearbyincluding the Treehouse Hotel, and a range of aparthotels
Last year, the arena had a major redevelopment, and created some stunning new event spaces with lots of flexible options We explore each of them and give our view on how we would use them to host an event
To discover more about the potential of this venue, keep reading or contact one of our expert venuefinding team for personal insights and recommendations Just call 02476 369 720 or email enquiries@conferencecare.com
VENUE TYPE: Arena
LOCATION:
Victoria Station
Manchester M3 1AR
EVENT CAPACITY
4,500 delegates
HEINEKEN SKYLINE
The Heineken Skyline is a beautiful open space with incredible views of the city This would be our recommendation for an event reception with a capacity of 100 guests.
AO ELECTRIC LOUNGE
THE EXTRAS
More casual than the Beautiful North, but super stylish, comfortable and vibrant With a capacity of 200 guests for a reception or 90 guests for banqueting, this is our recommendation for a private dinner or celebration. Works well in tandem with a larger event in the arena bowl, with views of the stage
THE BEAUTIFUL NORTH
This space is the best seat in the house This beautifully decorated suite that can host up to 34 guests is the perfect spot for networking Equipped with a private bar and food service, you can spoil your delegates and give them a VIP experience Perfect for leaving an impression
PAULINE BEATTIE, SALES DIRECTOR
"AO Arena Manchester never fails to impress. From an event planning perspective, it offers everything you need versatile spaces, great accessibility, and a professional on-site team The recent refurbishments have elevated the venue, creating a modern, dynamic atmosphere that enhances every experience It’s definitely one of our top recommendations for events in the North "
Want more recommendations from me? Contact me on paulineb@conferencecare com or call 02476 369 720
THE ARENA
THE BOWL
Now time for the main attraction The arena is a huge, flexible space perfect for events of all kinds. With a capacity of 2,500 theatre style, 900 cabaret style, and 16,000 tiered seats, it’s hard to imagine an event the arena couldn’t accommodate
All of the rooms mentioned so far are available to hire, along with any other event in the arena bowl. However, if you want more direct breakout rooms, the backstage dressing rooms are available These rooms are designed to work as both changing rooms and breakouts but don’t feel out of place as either In fact, guests will have a sense of exclusivity and excitement from using these areas
The bowl can be split into multiple zones of up to 2,000 guests each These divisions can be incredibly helpful when managing large-scale exhibitions and conferences
BOOK AO ARENA
If you’d like to book your next event at AO Arena, contact our venue-finding team today to access the best rates on 02476 369 720.
VENUE TYPE:
Hotel
LOCATION:
Blackfriars St, Manchester
M3 2EQ
EVENT CAPACITY
400 delegates
CONCORDE CONCORDE CONFERENCE CENTRE CONFERENCE CENTRE
With Concorde Conference Centre you get an exceptional space for your event with a British icon We’re speaking, of course, about the flagship of the British Airways fleet - Concorde G-BOAC.
The hangar provides a stunning backdrop to any event and is highly flexible. Great for product launches, conferences, and awards dinners
As you’d expect, the Concorde aircraft dominates the room. The plane is lit up using 12 high-output LED lights that you can set to colours of your choice. You can even project your company ’ s logo onto the nose of the aircraft Or, you can take your delegates on a guided tour of the aircraft.
VENUE TYPE: Hangar
LOCATION: Wilmslow Old Rd
Altrincham WA15 8XQ
EVENT CAPACITY
600+ delegates
A guide is provided for 2 hours when running an event in The Hangar
We would highly recommend dining beneath the Concorde’s wings It’s an experience like no other. With catering provided by the venue using local independent producers, farms, and growers, you know you ’ re getting sustainable quality.
BETH HANSON, SUSTAINABILITY COORDINATOR
Want more recommendations from me? Contact me on bethh@conferencecare.com or call 02476 369 720
MEETINGS & EVENTS MEETINGS & EVENTS
There are two spaces available at the There are two spaces available at the Concorde Conference Centre: Concorde Conference Centre: The The Hangar Hangar and and The Alpha Charlie The Alpha Charlie.
The Hangar The Hangar has a maximum capacity has a maximum capacity of 600 with over 1,600 square metres of 600 with over 1,600 square metres of flexible space Use of the Hangar of flexible space. Use of the Hangar gets you access on board the gets you access on board the Concorde aircraft, stage with lectern, Concorde aircraft, stage with lectern, starlit backboards, and use of the starlit backboards, and use of the Alpha Charlie Suite. Alpha Charlie Suite
The Alpha Charlie Suite The Alpha Charlie Suite is perfect for is perfect for a more intimate event. The room a more intimate event. The room works as a breakout space at a larger works as a breakout space at a larger event, or can be hired on its own for event, or can be hired on its own for smaller meetings smaller meetings.
While the terms “airport” and While the terms “airport” and “sustainability” aren’t often seen “sustainability” aren’t often seen together, Concorde Conference together, Concorde Conference Centre bucks the trend Centre bucks the trend.
They do this through their They do this through their commitment to organic, logical, and commitment to organic, logical, and free-range meat and dairy. They do free-range meat and dairy. They do this through their use of sustainable this through their use of sustainable and recycled materials. And, they and recycled materials And, they do this by following a strict do this by following a strict Corporate Social Responsibility Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategy. (CSR) strategy.
Their efforts have resulted in them Their efforts have resulted in them achieving an ECOSmart achieving an ECOSmart accreditation, and they are proud accreditation, and they are proud members of the Living Wage members of the Living Wage Foundation Foundation.
It has a maximum capacity of 50, with It has a maximum capacity of 50, with a variety of layout options available a variety of layout options available. Boardroom setup seats 30, and Boardroom setup seats 30, and Cabaret style seats 40 Cabaret style seats 40.
Finally, the Concorde Conference
Finally, the Concorde Conference Centre offers its own AV package Centre offers its own AV package which includes: PA system for up to which includes: PA system for up to 300 people, professional party DJ, 300 people, professional party DJ, 16ft x 16ft dancefloor, and all of the 16ft x 16ft dancefloor, and all of the projection and lighting to make the projection and lighting to make the Concorde aircraft really shine Concorde aircraft really shine.
SSUSTAINABLE USTAINABLE
26% of VFGs are Carbon Neutral of are Neutral
21% of VFGs are B-Corps VFGs are
GIVING BACK GIVING BACK
61% of VFGs distribute excess VFGs distribute excess food to the local community food to the local
IINCLUSIVE NCLUSIVE
13% of VFGs are Disability VFGs are Confident Employers Confident Employers
16% of VFGs are owned by a of are a woman/women
REWARDS FOR EVERY BOOKING
One4All Vouchers
Shop ‘til you drop in over 20,000 stores, restaurants & attractions, With over 170 brands nationwide & online, the One4all Gift Card offers the widest range of retailers on the market
Carbon Offsetting
Offsetting the carbon footprint of your event can be absolutely free with Bees & Honey - just accumulate enough rewards and offset with us through a variety of projects!
Dine Around Cards
Nando's, Zizzi, PizzaExpress & Many More Dine out at your favourite restaurants, on us, with a Dine Around Card
Charity Donation
Spread the love by supporting our chosen charity or one of your choice Conference Care is pleased to support Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice and Dogs For Good
Conference Care Service
Want to enhance your next event? We offer double rewards for a discount on our services Introduce an event app. Measure your carbon footprint. Create a buzz for your next event with our event management team Find out more, here
SIGN UP HERE
CIAL CIAL ACE ACE
VENUE TYPE:
Entertainment
LOCATION:
Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Cheltenham Edinburgh Leeds, Leicester, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Nottingham, Sheffield, York
EVENT CAPACITY
Variable
ROXY ROXY ROXY
Roxy Ball Rooms are UK-Wide and they’re so good, we couldn’t pick just one! Offering a variety of games and activities, from curling and karaoke to beer pong and pool, there’s always something to do at Roxy. So, join us for a country-wide spotlight of this striking social space.
If you’re unfamiliar with Roxy Ball Rooms, you’re in for a treat. The neon game rooms have a fantastic atmosphere and aesthetic Colourful, covered in street art and packed full of activities, you’ll never feel short of something to do.
While you may be tempted with something more familiar - ping pong, pool, or bowling, we’d recommend trying something just a little different. Tech darts offers a fun twist on the classic game, while ice free curling and tech shuffle presents a unique new challenge.
It’s the perfect space for a (very) casual meeting. If you want to entertain your guest(s), you’re guaranteed to find something they’ll like here.
The venue offers a variety of drinks packages, from a cocktail platter, buckets of fizz, sharer cocktails, and dozen packs of beers.
If you have a team building activity, and a drinks package isn’t what you need, then a fully stocked bar is ready and waiting to serve you with whatever takes your fancy.
SPACES
Roxy Ball Room is the perfect choice for a team social – energetic, vibrant, and packed with personality. The staff are brilliant and help tailor the space for a relaxed and competitive atmosphere From bowling and beer pong to great food and cocktails, there’s something for everyone It’s now firmly on our go-to list for informal team events & client entertainment
Want more recommendations from me? Contact me on sarahh@conferencecare.com or call 02476 369 720
THE ROUNDUP
Edinburgh & Glasgow
Our venue-finding team know venue maps like the back of their hand. To ensure their knowledge is second to none, they get out there and experience these spaces firsthand. In our recent travels, we’ve had our fair share of site visits, and we’d like to share some of our standouts...
EDINBURGH & GLASGOW
GLASGOW
Jo Coe recently took a trip through the streets of Glasgow and one venue stood out above all others Okay, this is more of a sneak peek, than an official roundup, but we won’t tell anyone if you won’t:
“I was invited to don my hard hat and high vis for an inside look at the Collector’s Hall in Glasgow recently, and from walking through the entrance you can tell that this is going to be something unique and special
“I travelled from Edinburgh, just 40 minutes by train, arriving into Glasgow Queen Street Station, which couldn’t be more convenient Turn left out of the exit and within a few minutes you’re at the venue.
“What stood out immediately was how elegant the space felt High ceilings, intricate period detailing, and so much daylight It has a feeling of history you just can’t replicate it created a stunning backdrop for an event The theatre set-up, easily accommodated around 120 delegates, but the venue can also host 65 in cabaret-style or 110 for a banquet, depending on the event type.
“One of the big perks is the exclusive-use option, which gives access to the entire heritage building which includes 22 luxury bedrooms. This makes it ideal for private events or residential conferences It’s rare to find a central location with that much flexibility
“Whether you’re planning a conference, awards dinner, or even a wedding, The Collector’s Hall offers something really special It combines the grandeur of a heritage building with the ease and practicality of a modern event space and all right in the middle of Glasgow ”
EDINBURGH & GLASGOW
Meanwhile, Taylor Findley was also finding her way around Scotland, exploring a whole host of venues across the two cities:
“I’d like to start with my favourite venue from my visit - Virgin Hotels, Edinburgh Unique, artistic, luxurious, and beautifully weird in all the right ways. A real hidden gem. Meeting & event spaces are distinctive and versatile, with the rooftop terrace offering private hire for up to 50 guests – ideal for a stylish drinks reception with a view It’s a little dark in places, but that moody, atmospheric vibe just adds to its charm.
“Tucked away near the popular Victoria Street, you’re close to the heart of the action without feeling caught up in the tourist rush. This venue doesn’t just host events – it leaves a lasting impression
“Next, I have to mention Edinburgh Zoo This is not your standard meeting venue – it’s a chance to host an event with a backdrop of exotic animals and sweeping outdoor views. The most memorable space by far is the chimpanzee meeting room, which has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the enclosure It’s a definite talking point – but with a quirk: meetings here can’t start before 09:15, as the rangers need to complete their daily chimp count If any of the chimps are hiding, meetings could be delayed It’s a charming twist for the right client, but not ideal if timings are tight.
“Lastly, a couple of must-mention venues from GlasgowFirst, Yotel Glasgow – Central, casual and cool, with a private bowling alley on the rooftop. Yes, really.
Then, Ivy Buchanan Street. The venue has stunning décor and a great location in Glasgow’s bustling shopping district
PUT A PIN IN IT...
Which venues have got us excited?
Stay put for these exciting new openings and refurbs!
Radisson, Manchester City Centre
Mid 2025
Located just steps away from the AO Arena and Manchester Victoria Train Station, this will be Manchester’s first Radisson-branded hotel The venue is set to provide 252 guest rooms and suites, as well as sleek event facilities with capacity for up to 220 attendees This hotel will be the perfect setting for a medium-sized, city-based event, or a large-scale combo event with the AO Arena
The Jitaku, Residence Apartments
July 2025
Coming this summer 2025, Jitaku combines the best of Japanese and Scandinavian design to bring a truly unique aparthotel experience to central London Only a few minutes away from Liverpool Street Station, the venue will feature 24 apartments, including a mix of studios and one to two bedroom apartments. We’ll be keeping a close eye on these apartments for our accommodation service in 2025
The Other House, Covent Garden
Late 2025
The Other House is a Pinpoint veteran and a Venue For Good. A luxury and sustainable resident’s club. Opening later this year is their new location - Covent Garden Fantastic location, incredible dining options, and all the amenities you could ask for. We can’t wait to experience it first-hand.
