For PAs, EAs and event organisers selecting the right venue can make or break an event. Historic venues offer not only a unique atmosphere, but also a story that enhances the experience for attendees. These venues blend modern amenities with centuries of history, providing the perfect backdrop for a range of occasions, from corporate conferences to private dinners.
Why choose a historic venue for your event?
Opting for a historic venue brings several advantages:
- Unique atmosphere: These venues are steeped in history, featuring stunning architecture that creates an unforgettable ambiance.
- Prestige: Hosting an event at a historic site adds prestige, making the occasion feel more special and significant.
- Versatility: Many historic venues are equipped with modern AV technology and professional event teams, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Memorability: Attendees are more likely to remember an event in a spectacular, historically rich location.
Top choices for historic venues
Below are some of the best historic venues in Oxford, Portsmouth, Reading and the Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, all ideal destinations to host your next conference, meeting or corporate events
Mary Rose Museum, Portsmouth – Private Dining Alongside King Henry VIII’s Tudor Warship
The Mary Rose Museum, located in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, provides an extraordinary opportunity to host exclusive events alongside one of the most iconic artifacts in British history. Guests can enjoy private dining on the Upper Deck, adjacent to the remains of King Henry VIII’s Tudor warship, offering an experience that is truly unique. Whether it’s a corporate reception or an intimate gathering, the museum ensures a memorable and immersive experience. With a dedicated events team on hand, every detail is meticulously planned to ensure success.
Ideal events: VIP dinners, executive meetings, networking events.
Capacity: Theatre – 42, Banquet – 100
Nearest train station: Portsmouth Harbour (8 mins walk)
Step Aboard HMS Warrior, Portsmouth – The Pride of Queen Victoria’s Fleet.
HMS Warrior, launched in 1860, is a steam-powered iron-hulled warship that provides an immersive event experience steeped in naval history. The ship offers five unique event spaces, catering to a wide range of occasions. The Upper Deck is ideal for summer cocktail receptions, offering stunning views of Portsmouth Harbour and the Spinnaker Tower. For larger functions, the Gun Deck features traditional mess tables, perfect for gala dinners or corporate banquets, while the Captain’s Cabin is an intimate space for private dinners or VIP gatherings. Each event aboard HMS Warrior becomes part of the ship’s living history, providing a backdrop that’s impossible to forget.
Ideal events: Private dining, summer parties, themed events, networking drinks
Capacity: Networking 400, Banquet – 240
Nearest train station: Portsmouth Harbour (4 min walk)
Maritime Hotel, Portsmouth – Historic Naval Club Overlooking Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.
The Royal Maritime Hotel is equally steeped in maritime history and located directly adjacent to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard making it an ideal venue for combined events. Established in 1850, it was once the ‘Home Club’ of British sailors, now a thriving hotel and conference facility, with 90 guest rooms and versatile event spaces. The Trafalgar Ballroom has a capacity for up to 400 making the hotel is perfect for large conferences, banquets, or private events. Smaller, intimate gatherings can be hosted in the Hood or Nelsons Lounge, catering to 30 and 100 guests respectively. The Royal Maritime Hotel seamlessly blends history with modern amenities, making it a great choice for corporate events.
Ideal events: Conferences, banquets, parties, cocktail receptions.
Capacity: Theatre Style – 250, Banquet – 290
Nearest train station: Portsmouth Harbour (5 min walk)
Bodleian Libraries, Oxford – Oxford University’s oldest purpose-built room
The Divinity School at the Bodleian Libraries is one of the oldest surviving purpose-built rooms at Oxford University, dating back to the 15th century. This historic venue offers a prestigious setting for formal dinners, academic lectures, and award ceremonies. The grandeur of the Divinity School, combined with modern event facilities, creates an atmosphere of timeless elegance. For more contemporary events, Blackwell Hall offers a bright and airy space perfect for networking and receptions. Hosting an event at Bodleian Libraries is not just an occasion—it’s an experience that connects guests to centuries of intellectual history.
Ideal events: Lectures, conferences, formal dinners, award ceremonies.
Capacity: Theatre – 200, Banquet – 120
Nearest train station: Oxford (10 min walk)
Cliveden House, Berkshire – Luxurious countryside estate with royal heritage
Cliveden House is a prestigious venue, known for its luxurious surroundings and rich history. Once a retreat for royalty, this stately home is the ideal setting for executive retreats, high-end corporate events, or private dinners. Surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and offering stunning views of the Berkshire countryside, Cliveden provides an atmosphere of elegance and exclusivity. The venue’s history and grandeur ensure that any event held here will be nothing short of spectacular.
Ideal events: Executive retreats, luxury corporate events, team-building sessions, high-end private dining.
Capacity: Theatre – 80, Banquet – 120
Nearest train station: Taplow (10 min drive)
Reading Town Hall, Reading – Victorian gothic elegance in a central location
Reading Town Hall, a Grade II* listed building with a Victorian Gothic facade, is a stunning venue perfect for large conferences, concerts, and gala dinners. The Concert Hall, with a capacity for up to 790 guests, is ideal for major corporate events, public lectures, and musical performances. Smaller rooms are available for breakout sessions, workshops, or intimate gatherings. Located just a 2-minute walk from Reading Station, which is on the direct Elizabeth Line to central London, this venue is incredibly accessible for delegates coming from London or further afield. The combination of historic architecture and modern facilities makes Reading Town Hall a versatile and impressive venue choice.
Ideal events: Conferences, exhibitions, concerts, gala dinners, training sessions.
Capacity: Theatre – 700, Banquet – 250
Nearest train station: Reading (2 min walk)
Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire – world heritage site and birthplace of Winston Churchill
Blenheim Palace, home to the 12th Duke and Duchess of Marlborough and the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, is a World Heritage Site that offers over 300 years of history. With its magnificent architecture and breathtaking grounds, Blenheim is ideal for high-profile corporate events, gala dinners, and large outdoor functions. The Great Hall and Long Library offer stunning spaces for formal indoor events, while the Orangery and extensive grounds are perfect for summer parties or product launches. Hosting an event at Blenheim Palace ensures a prestigious experience in one of the most iconic settings in the UK.
Ideal events: Corporate galas, VIP receptions, product launches, outdoor events.
Capacity: Theatre – 120, Banquet – 250, Parkland 1000
Nearest train station: Oxford (20 min drive)
Would you like more venue inspiration?
For more venue inspiration across South East England visit the MeetBeyondLondon.com, where you can discover even more venues across South East England. Sign up for monthly inspiration delivered directly to your inbox. The Venue Capacity Finder is also a great resource allowing you to search for venues by capacity and location, ensuring you find the perfect spot for your next event.
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