The Complete Guide to Booking the Perfect Corporate Team Building Venue in the UK
To deliver the perfect team building event, you need the perfect team building venue.
Corporate team building events are a proven strategy to enhance collaboration, spark creativity, and strengthen bonds within your organisation. The right team building venue, combined with expert team-building activities delivered by EML Team Building, can create a memorable and transformative experience for your team.
This guide explores:
Top things to consider when choosing a venue for team building
Checklist of things to ask when booking your venue
The professionalism and quality of the activities from the delivery and content to the materials used was fantastic!
But more than that the passion for teambuilding and understanding of our needs from Jon & Simon really made the event a success. The team loved the team building venue and the experience and this far outweighed everything else. Hands down the best events company I’ve used!.
Carly Griffiths | TAG Heuer
Top things to consider when choosing a team building venue.
When choosing a team building venue, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure the event’s success and the comfort and engagement of all participants. Here are the top things to consider:
Location and Accessibility
The team building venue location is crucial. It should be easily accessible to all participants, whether they are travelling by car, train, or other means. Consider the distance from your office, the availability of parking, and the convenience of public transport links. A centrally located venue can help maximise attendance and reduce travel fatigue.
Capacity and Space Requirements
Choose a team building venue that is flexible and can be tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need to rearrange seating, require special equipment, or want to bring in external facilitators like EML Team Building, the venue should be accommodating. Flexibility is key to ensuring that your event runs smoothly and meets your objectives.
Facilities and Amenities
The team building venue should offer the necessary facilities to support your team building activities. This includes audiovisual equipment, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating arrangements. Additionally, amenities like on-site catering, restrooms, and accessibility features for participants with disabilities should be considered.
Flexibility of the Venue
Choose a team building venue that is flexible and can be tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need to rearrange seating, require special equipment, or want to bring in external facilitators like EML Team Building, the venue should be accommodating. Flexibility is key to ensuring that your event runs smoothly and meets your objectives.
Outdoor and Indoor Options
Depending on the nature of your team building activities, you may need both an indoor and outdoor team building venue. Venues with versatile options allow you to adapt the programme based on weather conditions or specific team preferences. A venue with scenic outdoor areas can also provide a refreshing break from indoor sessions.
Budget Considerations
Cost is always a factor when planning an event. Ensure the team building venue fits within your budget, but also consider the value it offers. Sometimes paying a little more for a venue with better facilities, a convenient location, or superior service can make a significant difference in the overall success of your team building event.
Venue Atmosphere and Ambience
The atmosphere of the venue can greatly influence the mood and energy of the event. Choose a venue that aligns with the objectives of your team building activities. For example, a historic manor may inspire creativity and reflection, while a modern conference centre may be better suited for high-energy challenges and problem-solving sessions.
Catering and Refreshments
Good food and drink are vital for keeping participants energised and engaged. Ensure the venue offers quality catering options that can accommodate various dietary requirements. Whether it’s a formal sit-down meal or a casual buffet, the catering should complement the schedule and flow of the day.
Availability of Accommodation
If your team building event spans multiple days, or if participants are travelling from afar, consider a venue that offers on-site accommodation. This convenience can enhance the overall experience, providing opportunities for informal team bonding during evening meals or social activities.
Reputation and Reviews
Lastly, consider the venue’s reputation and feedback from previous clients. Research reviews, ask for recommendations, and speak with the venue’s event coordinators to understand their experience with hosting similar events. A venue with a strong track record in delivering successful team building events is more likely to meet your expectations.
Our Most Popular Team Building Events
The Tricksters
Discover “The Tricksters,” a thrilling team building adventure where trust and strategy collide. Who will expose the secret team traitors whilst tackling tasks that enhance team unity?
"Thanks so much for providing us with such a fun activity."
Evie Suggett | Enable
Crystal Challenge
Dive into the Outdoor Crystal Challenge Team Building Event, a thrilling blend of puzzles and teamwork set to invigorate and unite. Race against the clock to collect crystals and seize your chance in The Dome, where golden tickets await!
"Fantastic event and great feedback from my team."
Pamela Walker | bioMerieux
Team Unity Workshop
Through a series of facilitated exercises and short, informal activities, participants gain clearer insight into communication habits, behaviours under pressure and the impact these have on team outcomes.
"Really enjoyable and informative day"
Erin McGough | St Monica Trust
Lego Master Builders
Unleash your team's potential with Lego Master Builders, an exciting challenge that combines communication, strategy, and creativity to construct a magnificent Lego skyscraper, revealing your team's true collaborative skills.
"Thanks a lot for a great team building session."
Mark Channing | LEGO
Soap Box Derby
Ignite team spirit and drive collaboration to the finish line with our Soap Box Derby team building experience. Pedal karting meets strategic team challenges, ensuring an unforgettable, adrenaline-fuelled event.
"Another great staff day from EML!"
Tracy Rudge | RoSPA
Taskmasters
A weird but wonderful, lively, engaging team building event. Inventive challenges unveil hidden talents and strengthen bonds, offering a laugh out loud experience with key insights into your team's dynamics.
"The whole team really enjoyed the Taskmasters activity"
Michael Thomas | Remap Consulting
Team Building Venue Jargon
Venue Hire vs. Day Delegate Rate (DDR)
- Venue Hire: This refers to the cost of renting the venue itself. It usually includes the use of the main event space and possibly some basic amenities, but additional services or rooms might cost extra.
- Day Delegate Rate (DDR): A pricing model often used for conferences and meetings. It includes a per-person charge that typically covers the use of the main event room, catering (like lunch and refreshments), basic AV equipment, and sometimes additional services like stationery and Wi-Fi.
Banqueting Style vs. Theatre Style
- Banqueting Style: A seating arrangement where tables are set up with chairs around them, typically used for meals or events where participants will be dining or engaging in more interactive sessions.
- Theatre Style: A seating arrangement where chairs are set up in rows facing the front, like in a theatre or cinema. This style is ideal for presentations or events where attendees need to focus on a speaker or screen.
U-Shape, Boardroom, and Classroom Setups
- U-Shape: Tables are arranged in a U-shape with chairs around the outside, leaving an open space in the middle. This is good for presentations combined with discussions.
- Boardroom Setup: A large, usually rectangular table with chairs around it, ideal for meetings where interaction is key.
- Classroom Setup: Tables are set up in rows with chairs behind them, facing the front. This setup is suitable for training sessions where participants might need to take notes or work on laptops.
Reception Area
This is the space where attendees can be greeted upon arrival. It might be a lobby, foyer, or dedicated reception room. It’s important for first impressions and might also be used for registration, coat checks, or welcome drinks.
AV (Audiovisual) Equipment
This term refers to the technology used to support presentations and other multimedia elements during your event. It includes things like projectors, screens, microphones, speakers, and sometimes video conferencing equipment. AV services may be included in the venue hire or available as an add-on.
Breakout Rooms
These are smaller rooms available in addition to the main event space. They are used for smaller group activities, workshops, or private meetings. If your event requires multiple sessions or discussions happening simultaneously, you’ll need to ask about the availability of breakout rooms.
Full-Service Venue
A venue that provides a comprehensive package including venue hire, catering, AV equipment, event planning assistance, and sometimes accommodation. These venues are ideal if you want everything handled in one place
Dry Hire
Renting a venue with only the space provided. All other services such as catering, AV equipment, and decoration need to be arranged separately by you. This option offers more flexibility but requires more coordination.
On-Site Coordination
Some venues offer on-site event coordinators or managers who assist with the logistics of your event on the day. They ensure everything runs smoothly, from AV setup to catering and guest services.
Cancellation Policy
The terms under which you can cancel your booking without incurring a penalty, or what fees you might face if you cancel within a certain timeframe. It’s crucial to understand this policy to avoid unexpected costs.
Room Block
A group of rooms reserved at a hotel for your event attendees, often at a discounted rate. This is common when booking venues that also provide accommodation.
Corkage Fee
A charge some venues impose if you bring your own alcohol instead of purchasing it through them. This fee covers the service, glassware, and other associated costs.
Load-In/Load-Out Times
The scheduled times when you can bring in equipment, decorations, or other items before the event (load-in) and when you must remove them after the event (load-out). These times need to be planned carefully to avoid additional charges.
Rider
Typically associated with performers, but in a venue context, it can refer to any specific requests or requirements you have for the event, such as particular types of food, room setups, or technical specifications.
Minimum Spend
Some venues may have a minimum amount you must spend on services like catering or drinks. If your event costs less than this amount, you may still need to pay the minimum spend.
It was a joy to partner with EML from start to finish.
They were very responsive and helpful when exploring options, and then very easy to deal with when it came to securing the booking.
On the day, Robin and Simon were fantastic. Again, very friendly and polite, and they hosted an excellent taskmasters event. Our team absolutely loved it. It brought great positive energy and enthusiasm to our group, and we received overwhelming positive feedback afterwards.
The team building venue, as suggested by EML, was also fantastic!
We will definitely be partnering with EML in the future for more team building events!
Jamie Briggs | Accenture
Checklist of things to ask when booking your venue
When booking a venue for your event, asking the right questions is crucial to ensure that the space meets your needs and that there are no surprises on the day. Here’s a list of important questions to ask when booking a venue:
What is the availability on my preferred date(s)?
Start by confirming whether the venue is available on your desired date(s). If your dates are flexible, ask about alternative options that might also work for you.
What is included in the venue hire fee?
Clarify what is included in the cost, such as tables, chairs, AV equipment, Wi-Fi, and basic lighting. Ask if there are any additional charges for things like setup, teardown, or use of certain facilities.
What is the capacity of the venue?
Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected number of attendees. Ask about the maximum capacity for different room setups (e.g., theatre style, banquet style, etc.)
Are there different room layout options available?
Inquire about the flexibility of room layouts to see if the team building venue can be arranged to suit your event’s specific needs, whether you need breakout rooms, a stage, or other configurations.
What AV equipment is available, and is there technical support on-site?
Ask about the availability of audio visual equipment such as projectors, screens, microphones, and speakers. Check if the team building venue provides technical support during your event to assist with setup and troubleshooting.
What catering options are available?
Find out what catering services the team building venue offers. Ask about menu options, pricing, and whether they can accommodate dietary restrictions or specific requests. If outside catering is allowed, ask if there are any associated fees.
Is parking available on-site, and is it free?
Inquire about the availability of parking for your attendees, including the number of spaces, proximity to the team building venue, and whether there are any costs involved. If parking is limited, ask about nearby alternatives.
What are the accessibility features of the venue?
Ensure the venue is accessible to all attendees, including those with disabilities. Ask about ramps, lifts, accessible toilets, and parking. Also, consider access to public transport for those not driving.
What is the cancellation policy?
Understand the team building venue cancellation policy, including the timeframe for cancellations and any associated fees. This is important in case your plans change unexpectedly.
Are there any restrictions on decorating or customising the space?
If you plan to decorate or personalise the venue, ask about any restrictions, such as limitations on hanging items, using candles, or attaching things to walls. Also, inquire if the venue has any preferred suppliers for décor.
Can I bring in external vendors?
If you’re considering using outside vendors for catering, entertainment, or other services, ask if the venue allows this and if there are any additional fees or requirements.
Is there on-site support during the event?
Ask if the venue provides an event coordinator or support staff on the day to help with logistics, setup, and any issues that arise during the event.
What are the load-in and load-out times?
Inquire about the times you can access the venue to set up before the event and when you need to vacate the space afterward. This is especially important if you have complex setups or multiple vendors.
Are there any noise restrictions?
If your event involves music or entertainment, ask about noise restrictions, such as curfews or volume limits. This is particularly important for evening events or venues in residential areas.
What security measures are in place?
For larger events, it’s important to know what security measures the team building venue has in place, such as on-site security personnel, CCTV, and emergency procedures.
Are there any additional charges I should be aware of?
To avoid unexpected costs, ask if there are any additional charges beyond the basic hire fee, such as cleaning fees, overtime charges, or corkage fees for bringing your own alcohol.
Can I schedule a site visit before booking?
Request a site visit to see the venue in person. This will give you a better sense of the space, its condition, and how it will suit your event’s needs. It’s also an opportunity to meet the venue’s staff and ask any further questions.
What is the policy on alcohol service?
If you plan to serve alcohol, ask about the venue’s policies, including whether they have a licensed bar, any restrictions on serving times, and if there are any corkage fees if you bring your own alcohol.
Is insurance required, and what does it cover?
Occaissonally, a team building venue may require you to have event insurance. Ask if this is necessary and what it needs to cover, such as liability or damage to the venue.
What is the process for booking, and when is payment due?
Ask about the booking process, including how to secure the team building venue, the payment schedule, and what deposit is required. Make sure you’re clear on the timeline for payments and any deadlines you need to meet.
Indoor Team Building Venue
Indoor team building is ideal for groups that want a controlled environment, free from the uncertainties of British weather. These venues, paired with EML Team Building’s activities, offer a focused and engaging experience that can be tailored to your specific needs.
Hand Picked Hotels
For an elegant indoor team building venue experience, Hand Picked Hotels provide luxurious settings with versatile spaces.
EML Team Building can deliver a variety of activities at these venues, such as the ‘Crystal Challenge‘, where teams compete in mental and physical tasks. These activities are designed to improve problem-solving and communication skills while providing an enjoyable and stimulating experience.
Crowne Plaza Reading
Crowne Plaza Reading East in Berkshire is a modern team building venue ideal for corporate events. EML Team Building can host the ‘Chain Reaction‘, a challenge where teams work together to build complex sequences, enhancing creativity and teamwork. This venue’s excellent facilities make it an ideal choice for indoor team building events.
Audleys Wood
For a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, Audleys Wood in Hampshire is an ideal choice as a team building venue. EML Team Building can facilitate activities such as ‘Team Apprentice’, where teams compete to develop the best business idea or product. This challenge is designed to encourage innovation, strategic thinking, and effective communication in a competitive yet collaborative environment.
Outdoor Team Building Venue Options
For teams looking to escape the office and enjoy the great outdoors, outdoor team building events offer a fantastic opportunity to push physical and mental boundaries. The UK is home to some breathtaking venues that, combined with EML Team Building’s expertise, provide the perfect setting for these adventurous activities.
Stanbrook Abbey
A team building venue located in Worcestershire, Stanbrook Abbey offers a unique blend of indoor and outdoor team building opportunities. We regularly organise activities such as ‘Scavenger Hunt‘, where teams navigate the abbey’s expansive grounds in search of clues. This activity enhances problem-solving abilities and promotes teamwork in a dynamic outdoor setting.
Crathorne Hall
For a quintessentially British team building venue, Crathorne Hall offers a stunning rural backdrop in Yarm, North Yorkshire. EML Team Building can host the ‘Soapbox Derby challenge, where teams design and decorate their own Formula 1 cars, racing overalls, and team flags. The event culminates in a thrilling race using adult-sized, pedal-powered karts, blending teamwork, creativity, and competitive spirit in a beautiful outdoor setting.
Wokefield Park
Set in 250 acres of Berkshire parkland, Wokefield Park is an outstanding outdoor team building venue. EML Team Building offers engaging activities like the ‘Sherlock Holmes‘ event, where teams work together to solve a fictional crime. Participants must use deductive reasoning, problem-solving, and teamwork to unravel clues and crack the case. This immersive activity encourages communication, strategic thinking, and collaboration, making it a perfect choice for teams looking to bond through an exciting outdoor adventure in a picturesque setting.
Is it an Indoor, Outdoor or Virtual Team Building Venue?
In today’s digital world, virtual team building has become a vital option for businesses with remote teams and stretched budgets. Virtual events can be just as engaging and effective as in-person experiences, offering flexibility and inclusivity. By integrating different types of activities, you can cater to a variety of personalities and skill sets within your team, ensuring that everyone is engaged and challenged. All of these venues are well equipped to run our Team Building Events – be they Live Indoor Events, Outdoor Activities or Virtual Facilitation.
Shendish Manor
Shendish Manor offers a stunning location in Hertfordshire and excels in supporting virtual team-building activities. EML Team Building can organise immersive events like the ‘CSI Murder Mystery’, where teams collaborate to solve a fictional crime using forensic techniques and investigative skills. This interactive experience encourages problem-solving and teamwork, even in a virtual setting. The versatility of Shendish Manor makes it an ideal option for businesses looking to engage both hybrid and remote teams through stimulating virtual challenges.
De Vere Latimer Estate
De Vere Latimer Estate excels in delivering live team-building events. EML Team Building can host engaging activities such as the ‘Game Show Quiz‘, a live, interactive event where teams compete in a series of fun quiz rounds, complete with buzzer systems and engaging hosts. The Game Show Quiz is designed to improve communication, encourage teamwork, and create a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for corporate events. Latimer Estate’s impressive setting and comprehensive facilities ensure a memorable and dynamic experience for in-person team building.
Hatherley Manor
Hatherley Manor in Gloucestershire is the perfect venue for EML Team Building’s ‘The Tricksters’ event. This exciting and interactive experience involves teams navigating through a series of mind-bending tricks and challenges, testing their problem-solving, creativity, and communication skills. The manor’s versatile indoor and outdoor spaces provide an ideal backdrop for this activity, allowing participants to immerse themselves in the fun. With its extensive facilities and beautiful surroundings, Hatherly Manor offers the perfect setting for a memorable and engaging team-building day.
Choosing the right team building venue for your corporate team building event is crucial to its success. With the expertise of EML Team Building, you can create an unforgettable experience that not only strengthens your team but also drives your business forward.
If all this seems a bit much or if you’d rather free up your time, the good news is we offer a Free Team Building Venue Finding Service to help you find the ideal venue for your corporate events.
This includes personalised recommendations based on specific requirements such as location, budget, and event type. We leverage our extensive network of venue contacts to provide options that suit a variety of needs, whether for indoor, outdoor, or virtual events. This service is designed to save time and ensure the perfect match for team building activities.
For more details, visit contact our sales team to access our Free Team Building Venue Finding Service or find more venues on our dedicated city location pages below:
- Birmingham (UK)
- Bristol (UK)
- Cambridge
- Cardiff (UK)
- Leeds (UK)
- Leicester (UK)
- London (UK)
- Manchester (UK)
- Milton Keynes (UK)
- Oxford (UK)
- Worcester (UK)
Or check out our county pages here:
We love working with the team at EML
Professional and enjoyable events, with high quality materials and a fantastic team. Having been clients for a number of years. I strongly recommend.
Rosie Beattie | Cannon Medical
