CONF ERENCING
MADINGLEY HALL Madingley Hall doesn’t have to try very hard to sell itself. There’s nothing like a 16th century building set in gorgeous grounds, and available all year round, to create a bit of venue va-va-voom. While the setting may be historic, with event rooms that cater for between five and 100 delegates and feature everything from wood panelling and leaded windows to 17th century tapestries, the facilities are completely up-to-date – so much so that the 62 bedrooms, with en suite bathrooms, tea and coffee making equipment, Wi-Fi and freeview TVs, get a five-star campus accommodation rating from Visit England (based on different criteria from hotel ratings). Event rooms, meanwhile, are fully equipped with internet access, AV equipment, Wi-Fi and data projectors – with onsite technical support to iron out any glitches. It’s a winning combination that appeals to a range of companies, from high tech to pharmaceutical and healthcare firms. Many, says Rebecca Burgess, conference and sales manager, are drawn to the tranquil location. “You get the peace and quiet of the countryside in contrast to the hustle and bustle of the town centre, so they come out here for the solitude.” With that in mind, she says, she always advises conference organisers to pace the event so that delegates enjoy a rewarding day that also provides enough time for them to take everything in. “People expect interactive events, so there needs to be time for them to talk to each other, so as well as having speakers, it’s useful to build in drinks and a networking session as well.” When the weather’s warm enough, socialising can even extend to a relaxing game of croquet in the grounds.
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