Even though the weather in recent years has been unpredictable, it's worth noting that Cambridge boasts the UK's lowest precipitation rate. This translates to a strong likelihood of clear skies year-round...given this advantage, considering the ample and beautiful outdoor spaces in Cambridge for your next event is a great idea - half of the city, spanning 7 square miles, is lush and green, and there is an abundance of venues with outside space to choose from!
The Power of Open Air Meetings
Did you know 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 could 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? 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.
The Cambridge Union Society, the oldest debating society in the world has pretty gardens, where delegates can step out.
Harnessing the Potential of Downtime
Building downtime into your event can be beneficial for several reasons: rest and relaxation; reflection and digesting; networking; and resource management to name but a few! It is also a great way to build cultural sensitivity into your event as some cultures place a high value on breaks and downtime; a great opportunity to be more inclusive!
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 in between sessions, or choose a venue that can provide lunch outside, switching up the environment will certainly help delegates re-focus and engage in sessions.
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. Read our guides on:
Take in the wonderful and majestic venue of 'the Back's' on a punt
Bring the Outside In
If you can’t bear the thought of meeting in a meadow or a lakeside luncheon, 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 rooftop gardens, including the Pavilion Room at Newnham College where you can meet and dine with the option of going outside and if the weather should change, dashing quickly back inside keeping everyone dry!
The Pavilion Room opens up onto the Razan Jafar Terrace
At the Graduate Hotel, 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.
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.
Effective and 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 is genuinely working as one!
Team building events 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 is possible, check out Right Angle Events, or for more ideas, Chillisauce and Off Limits.
For a team-building day with a difference, the Cambridge Rowing Experience offers a rare and exciting opportunity to experience Cambridge's most iconic sport, it's a great corporate team-building event or incentive activity and a range of bespoke packages are on offer. The activity is aimed at beginners and is designed to be a fun-filled session rather than a test of endurance!
Read our Incentives, Team Building and Group Visits in Cambridge for more ideas.
Downing College and University Arms Hotel with their proximity to Parker's Piece, one of the largest green spaces in the city, are perfectly placed for a meeting and outdoor team-building event; hire a bike for that true Cambridge experience!
The Picnic Principle
Food always tastes better outside, right? Whether you’re organising a work event or planning a family celebration, taking it 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.
The beautiful grounds at Westminster College, a magnificent Grade II listed building located in the heart of the city, provide the perfect setting for an outdoor event.
Guests of The Moller Institute enjoying a summer BBQ. The contemporary buildings overlook the extensive grounds of Churchill College providing a winning combination; a great, informal way to bring everyone together after a day of meetings...
Make an Enquiry today
Meet Cambridge can help you find a venue and host the perfect event in Cambridge.
You can make an enquiry by:
- using our online enquiry form
- emailing us
- calling us on +44 (0)1223 768740