North East England is famed for its beautiful castles and grand stately homes, many of which are now leading conference and meetings venues.

Kings of the castles

Castles create thrillingly-distinctive conference and meeting venues. North East England is studded with spectacularly restored castles, steeped in history and atmosphere.

They include Northumberland’s magnificent battlemented Alnwick Castle, birthplace of Harry Hotspur and location for Harry Potter films, and Langley Castle Hotel, Northumberland’s 650-year-old restored medieval tower house, where delegates get the latest technology in the most awe-inspiring setting. Standing proud for more than 600 years, the magnificent spectacle of Lumley Castle Hotel is surrounded by beautiful parkland overlooking the Wear and dominates the Durham landscape. Each of the castles has a track record of success hosting major corporate events that will entice conference bookers and organisers looking for something different for their clients.

Unusual… unforgettable

Unforgettable locations underpin memorable events. The region offers extraordinary venues with outstanding conference and meetings space.

The family-run Dissington Hall offers customised or exclusive use of its beautifully-restored Georgian mansion for meetings. Teesdale’s Bowes Museum has a nationally-renowned art collection to explore in its magnificent French-style chateau when delegates get some downtime, and Ushaw College - a tranquil seminary on the outskirts of Durham - hosts conferences in elegant buildings designed by Pugin.

Or you can enjoy splashing in the water cascades or dining in Britain’s biggest tree house at the spectacular Alnwick Garden in Northumberland, or visit Gibside, the National Trust’s landscaped forest garden, and perhaps spy a rare Red Kite flying overhead once the business day is done.

League of its own

A bit of competition always focuses the body and mind. The people of North East England are famed for their passion for sport, and our sporting venues are second to none. They offer extensive meetings facilities, top-notch catering and a proven ability to deliver a winning event.

Newcastle Racecourse is an odds-on favourite for conferences and meetings, set in 800 acres, minutes from the A1(M), yet a million miles from the bustle of the city centre. The Racecourse can be booked out in its entirety for a conference to entice hundreds of delegates, with stunning views over the course, city and countryside.

The first-class status of Durham County Cricket Club extends to its Riverside Ground’s meetings and events suites, with panoramic views of the pitch.

Redcar Racecourse has an impressive track record as a flexible conference and meeting venue offering a unique yet easily-accessible location in a magnificent setting.

See listings of all unusual venues taking part in the Space to Think campaign.