Departures
MEETING IN...
Oxford
The City of Dreaming Spires has long drawn to it the learned elite of Britain, but its wealth of meeting venues means it also appeals to those in the market for memorable events, writes Laura Gelder
“Take a tour of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the largest in the world. It's one of the most worthwhile cultural experiences in Abu Dhabi and visitors will be given the chance to gain a unique insight into the religion and culture of the Emirates. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is open for guided educational tours commencing at 10am to 11.30am from Sunday to Thursday”
ANGELA BATES TRADE PROMOTIONS SENIOR EXECUTIVE, ABU DHABI TOURISM AUTHORITY
Just an hour from London and with a plethora of world-famous buildings, museums and educational establishments, it’s easy to see why Oxford presents a tempting proposition for meetings and events. Hi-tech businesses jostle for space with the various university colleges in a city where the pursuit of excellence is par for the course. A lively night scene, helped by its resident student population, plus museums, theatres, restaurants and glorious countryside further boost Oxford’s obvious charm.
Wow Factor Rhodes House Address: South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3RG Tel: 01865 270901 Web:
www.rhodeshouseoxford.com With a history steeped in colonial politics, this traditional property in the heart of Oxford was completed in 1928 as a memorial to Cecil Rhodes, the British diamond magnate and imperialist who founded De Beers and after whom former Rhodesia is named. The property, which encapsulates the styles of a Cape Dutch farmhouse, English country mansion and the arts and crafts movements of the 1900s, can be hired on an exclusive basis. Milner Hall is the largest and most grand of the three venues, with stone walls, marble fireplaces, a raised stage and direct access to the courtyard garden – perfect for large dining events. The Jameson Room is ideal for small receptions or meetings, with book-lined walls and a large bay window letting in natural light. The Beit Room is more intimate still, with views of the private West Lawn.
Quirky Venue Malmaison Oxford Address: Oxford Castle, 3 New Rd, Oxford, OX1 1AY Tel: 01865 268 400 Email:
oxford@malmaison.com Web:
www.malmaison-oxford.com A former prison, this imposing building has now been turned into a stylish hotel, featuring plush modern furnishings around the stark original features – plus a brasserie and bar offering up locally sourced dishes and organic beers. For reception-style events, the
Visitors Room can hold up to 100 people under its high ceilings and features lounge-style seating, a Champagne bar and plasma screen television. The Private Dining Room can host up to ten guests for an intimate cell-room supper. Cells Two and Three hold between 14 and 16 people and can be set up for dining or in boardroom. Cell Four is for up to 20 diners and Cell Five seats up to 35 in either style.
New Kid on the Block Crowne Plaza Heythrop Park Address: Heythrop Park Resort, Enstone, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 5UF Tel: 01608 673333 Web:
www.cpheythroppark.co.uk Just 20 minutes from Oxford city centre, the brand new Crowne Plaza sits adjacent to the original Heythrop House amid extensive grounds and gardens. The Crown Plaza has state-of-the-art conference facilities in this country park setting of 400 acres. A circular conference theatre is the centrepiece, seating up to 350 delegates, and comes complete with stage, flexible lighting, sound system and internet access. It is complemented by 11 meeting rooms and a 450-seat ballroom that can be divided into three self-contained rooms – all with garden or courtyard access. The AV team is on standby at all events, while team-building activities on offer include everything from quad-biking to duck-herding. There’s also an 18-hole golf course, tennis courts and health club on-site. Dining options include afternoon tea in the original building’s Wedgewood lounge.
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