This month, MEET Beyond London focuses on Berkshire, the county just west of London known for its rich history, scenic beauty, and excellent transport links to the city. The most recent announcement for Berkshire is the completion of Shinfield Studios in June, marking the county’s emerging prominence in the film and television industry. Reading and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead are standout destinations within Berkshire. Below, we explore why Berkshire is a great destination of choice for your next event and highlight several exceptional venues…
Why MEET in Reading
Reading is a fantastic location for events due to its outstanding connectivity and transport links. Situated just 22 minutes from London via train and on the Elizabeth Line, it provides easy access to the capital. Its state-of-the-art train station at the town’s heart, complemented by the secondary Reading West station, ensures easy travel nationwide. There are many venues accessible within 10 minutes of Reading Station by foot, or if travelling by car the town is located on the M4 corridor, just 25-minutes’ drive from Heathrow Airport.
Reading Town Hall, just a two-minute walk from Reading Station, is the largest capacity venue in Reading. This beautiful Grade II* listed building, designed by the celebrated architect Alfred Waterhouse, features a stunning Victorian Gothic facade and state-of-the-art facilities. The versatile space includes a magnificent Concert Hall with a maximum theatre capacity of 700, as well as meeting rooms for smaller groups, ensuring a tailored package for any event.
Voco Reading is adjacent to Reading Football Club’s stadium, offering 201 bedrooms and flexible meeting rooms. It boasts a larger onsite conference centre that can accommodate up to 500 guests. With free parking, electric car charging points, and excellent leisure facilities including a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, and gym. The Atrium Bar and brasserie-style restaurant Le Café provide excellent dining options for attendees.
VoCo Reading
The Hilton Reading is a prime choice for corporate events. Situated off the A33, just five minutes from the M4 J11 and Heathrow Airport, and a six-minute drive from Reading Station, it offers excellent accessibility by car or rail. The hotel boasts 210 bedrooms and 10 modern meeting rooms and event spaces, with a theatre capacity of up to 500, making it ideal for large business gatherings.
De Vere Wokefield Estate in Reading combines both modern and classic venues within its estate. This 376-bedroom estate features 39 meeting rooms and boasts large grounds ideal for team-building activities. The newly refurbished Wokefield Suite can host up to 500 guests, while the Mansion House offers elegant spaces filled with character, perfect for smaller banquets.
De Vere Wokefield Estate
Why MEET in Windsor and Maidenhead
Windsor and Maidenhead, part of the Royal Borough, are renowned for their historic and picturesque settings, including Windsor Castle, the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world. The royal town offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities, making them ideal destinations for corporate meetings and events. It’s close proximity to Heathrow Airport, (just a 7-minute drive away) and central London (35 minutes by train) ensures ease of access for international and domestic delegates.
The Castle Hotel Windsor is one of the most opulent buildings in Windsor, offering elegant meeting rooms and the largest ballroom in the Royal Town, catering up to 300 banquet style and 400 theatre style. Located opposite Windsor Castle and the River Thames, it provides a prestigious backdrop for corporate events.
Sir Christopher Wren Hotel is situated on the banks of the River Thames offering a breathtaking backdrop for business events. It boasts 138-bedrooms and combines historic charm with contemporary facilities. The hotel features several meeting rooms, a riverside terrace, and excellent dining options, a stunning riverside backdrop for business events.
Sir Christopher Wren Hotel Terrace
Hedsor House is set in a secluded, beautiful 100-acre estate in Maidenhead. Accessible from Taplow Station (40 minutes from London Paddington on the Elizabeth Line). Hedsor House offers an exceptional setting for team-building events, corporate parties, launches, and board retreats. With unique activities like duck-herding and treasure hunts , it’s perfect for creating memorable experiences.
Hedsor House. Aerial Estate Photography – Dominic James
Amber Lakes is a stunning venue for parties, conferences, corporate dinners, and more. This unique location offers the luxury and comfort of a Scandinavian Lodge, providing complete exclusivity for high-end corporate events. Perfect for hosting senior management events, dinners, and parties, the Lodge can accommodate up to 250 guests standing. In the summer, the outdoor space can be used for activities, games, and receptions. With the addition of marquees and other temporary structures, the venue’s overall capacity can be increased to 500 guests.
Will Berkshire be your next destination of choice?
If you have thought about holding an event just beyond London, but don’t want to be too far from the city, Berkshire is a great choice. its excellent transport links, diverse range of venues and its more rural feel make it a great choice. The newly completed Shinfield Studios adds to its appeal, making it a significant destination for the film and television industry. Whether you choose the modern facilities in Reading or the historic charm of Windsor and Maidenhead, Berkshire offers a perfect setting for any corporate event.
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