WHAT WAS THE PA LIFE CLUB’S AFTERNOON AT ASHRIDGE HOUSE LIKE
Most of the Club members arrived by train, a quick 30 minutes from London Euston. We were met by Ashridge House’s own luxury minibus which whisked us up to the house in 10 minutes. The minibus is a great service for any events at the house.
Driving through the grounds to the entrance allowed us to appreciate the magnitude of this enormous house and gardens. Stepping through the grand entrance into the hall housing the most magnificent sweeping staircase set the scene perfectly for what was to be expected at this stunning venue.
The friendly event team and Nicki Moss Glover, Business Development Manager welcomed us upon arrival and escorted us to the stunning Lady Marian Alford drawing room to meet the rest of our 22 attendees. We were served light refreshments at the stunning room named after Lady Marian who she commissioned the remodel in the 19th century. It’s an elaborately decorated room with marble pillars and a painted ceiling, and was beautifully restored in 1996. The room is now an impressive conference room with panoramic views of the gardens. When the weather is on your side, you can step out with your coffee taking in the beautiful garden views.
Once everyone had arrived we were introduced to Nigel, our guide for the house tour. Nigel really knew the history of Ashridge House and spoilt us with great details of the former owners, their families the and colourful visitors who joined the lavish parties and events of the foregone era. The tour is definitely worth adding to the programme if time allows.
After our extensive show around it was time for afternoon tea. And what a feast it was too with plenty of savoury choices from the most delicious coronation checking and smoked salmon finger sandwiches to the sweet treats of cakes and freshly baked scones. A glass of fizz served with our afternoon tea added a lovely touch to the occasion.
We were in no hurry to finish our tea and networking with our fellow members but we still had another special treat to come. The afternoon was also a chance to experience one of the many wellness sessions Ashridge House can offer as part of their event programme. We were treated with a yoga class by the wonderful Charli (@charli_yogi on Instagram) in the beautiful Old Library (there is even a hidden escape in the bookcase). Those of us who weren’t already wearing our active had a quick change into our yoga pants ready to take to our matts. It was gentle stretching and restoring session – a perfect finish for a perfect afternoon.
It was sadly time to hop on the minibus and head back home.
ABOUT ASHFORD HOUSE
Conveniently located 30 miles north of London with unlimited free parking. Inclusive delegate rates to ensure clear and accurate budgeting for all events. 26 superbly equipped conference rooms, suitable for training and meetings for up to 250 participants. Over 50 syndicate/breakout rooms. 190 en-suite bedrooms (including 11 executive suites) Free Wi-Fi available site-wide. Mouth-watering cuisine served in elegant dining rooms, plus exclusive private dining facilities. We can offer a unique combination of personal and team development events to ensure you gain the maximum from your conference. Facilitation from onsite professors or keynote speakers are on hand to enhance your event. Experienced and dedicated conference team to help make the planning of your meeting a success.
Would you like to receive exclusive invitations to Meet Ups such as this as well as receive partner offers, entries to competitions and enjoy discounted elearning courses? Find out more at our PA Life Club page.
