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It’s true that we have had the most fantastic weather in Cambridge this summer, but did you know that we also have the lowest precipitation rate anywhere in the UK, so there’s a good chance the skies will be clear year-round. And when they’re not, we always have a wet weather back-up.
So, why not use some of our amazing outdoor space during your next event – half of the city of Cambridge (7 square miles) is green after all, and we have lots of venues with amazing grounds, in and out of town...
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The Magic of Open Air Meetings
Did you know that that learning in an unexpected environment triggers the release of dopamine to the hippocampus? It plays an important role in the consolidation of information from short-term memory to long-term memory – so by meeting outside, participants will probably retain more of what they learn.
There’s also something nostalgic about being outside in an unusual context that takes you back to those rare afternoons at school, when the teacher would let you sit under a tree for a lesson…
To get your delegates in the best frame of mind for learning, why not start with a run, bike ride, yoga exercises or perhaps a mindful walk (contact David Brown at Potentiality Coaching www.potentialitycoaching.co.uk or Jacqui Kemp at Your People Potential www.yourpeoplepotential.co.uk . A talk, relevant to the surroundings, by a motivational speaker, a gardener or even an historian could kick-start the day and build interest for the programme ahead.
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The Cambridge Union Society, the oldest debating society in the world has pretty gardens, where delegates can step out.
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Fruitful Downtime
It might seem like an oxymoron, but building in downtime at an event can really reap rewards. There’s nothing like an inspirational space for a quiet, contemplative moment. It can allow delegates to consolidate and reflect on their experiences and learning.
It’s well documented that problems are solved and light bulb moments occur when you’re taking a few moments out – some people say it’s in the bath or the shower – but why not take the opportunity to give your delegates some down time outside before, after or even between sessions, or choose a venue that can provide lunch outside, switching up the environment will certainly help delegates re-focus in the afternoon.
Make the most of the facilities or the location of the venue, a sculpture trail, like the one at Jesus College would make an unusual ice-breaker activity, while punting trips and cycling tours provide perfect settings and the right ingredients for valuable networking opportunities.
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An inspirational view of Ely Cathedral from the Almonry Restaurant.
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Bring the Outside In
If you can’t bear the thought of meeting in a meadow or lakeside lunches, you can still enjoy the benefits that being outdoors can bring by choosing a venue with flexible spaces. Even in the centre of the city we have several roof top gardens, including the Revolution Rooftop Terrace where you can meet in the open air, safe in the knowledge that should the unexpected British weather do its thing, the retractable roof can be deployed to keep everyone dry!
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The Rooftop Terrace can accommodate 130 people so great for summer functions or even winter events. In the summer it portrays a floral theme and in the cooler months it has a festive vibe.
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At the DoubleTree by Hilton Cambridge City, organisers are offered a mobile meeting package with the option to take refreshments outside to the riverside garden so they can stretch their legs and refresh themselves between sessions – meetings can also take place outside with flipcharts and LED TV screens relocated for you where appropriate.
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With an ongoing focus on events providing an experience for attendees, and companies committing to delegates well-being, a riverside location with the sound of water is perfect for making the most of the outdoors and fresh air.
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Productive Team Building
Whatever you want to do, there is no doubt a team building company can deliver your dream day or help with creative ideas to meet your objectives.
Planning a series of fun, motivational activities will increase team skills such as communication, problem solving and resolving conflicts. The outcome will be a stronger and more cohesive team that are genuinely working as one!
Team building can be used to boost productivity, create healthy competition, reward and celebrate successes, as well as foster creativity and innovation.
How about a Wonka Day? Yes, it really is possible, check out Right Angle Events, or for more ideas, Chillisauce and Off Limits.
For the ultimate outdoor team building activity, Ely Boathouse, home of the Light Blues, offers a truly unique experience, you can have a tour of the Boathouse by one of the rowers, have an Olympian speak at your event and even have a go in the boats!
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The Gonville Hotel with its proximity to Parker's Piece, one of the largest green spaces in the city, is perfectly placed for a meeting and outdoor team building event, hire one of their bikes for that true Cambridge experience!
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Family Days & Festivals
Over the summer we have seen a trend for corporate Summer Parties. It’s a great way to reward staff and a super way to say thank you to everyone.
British themed events have been popular this year; Fitzwilliam College kicked off its summer season with a garden party for 350 for the High Sherriff of Cambridge. Guests were treated to traditional a British day out with food favourites including steak and chips and ice cream and performances from a Morris dancing troupe.
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The Quy Mill Hotel can host family fun days in the grounds of its marquee.
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With its Al Fresco Package, the gardens at Murray Edwards College are informal and suitable for almost any entertainment, games and music you can think of!
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The Picnic Principle
Food always tastes better outside, right? Whether you’re an organisation hosting a party or you’re planning a family celebration – birthday, anniversary, or wedding – taking part of the event outdoors can bring a whole new level of experiences, make the most of stunning gardens and open spaces for drinks and canapes, BBQs, afternoon teas or even a dinner party. Splendid settings make for fantastic photos and amazing memories.
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The beautiful grounds at Westminster College, a magnificent Grade II listed building located in the heart of the city, provides the perfect setting for an outdoor event.
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Guests of The
Centre enjoyed a summer BBQ earlier this summer, the contemporary buildings overlooking the extensive grounds of Churchill College proved a winning combination; a great, informal way to bring everyone together after a day of meetings...
Meet Cambridge can help you find a venue and host the perfect event in Cambridge.
You can make an enquiry by:
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