Conference Winchester welcomes national buyer
Members of the Conference Winchester network welcomed event organisers from across the country this week on a weekend-long familiarisation visit to the District’s leading conference and business venues. A total of 30 guests enjoyed the action-packed programme, which was designed to introduce national buyers to Conference Winchester’s free venue-finding service and to provide them with first-hand experience of the venues themselves.
The weekend’s itinerary began at Winchester Cathedral’s Paul Woodhouse Suite, a perfect example of Winchester’s ability to provide state-of-the-art business facilities in an historic setting. From there, the party moved on to other venues across the District, visiting the old and the new, the large and the small, the traditional and the modern. The programme also included a choice of activities to entertain guests, such as a face-to-face meeting with the animals at Marwell Zoological Park and a tipple and tour at Wickham Vineyard.
Although most delegates knew of Winchester’s reputation as a picturesque cathedral city, many were surprised by the diversity of the business facilities on offer in the District. One HR consultant commented, "I’ve discovered a hidden treasure with countless conference possibilities, plus plenty of exciting ideas for team-building activities," while another enthused about the District’s good road and rail access.
Winchester City Council’s Acting Head of Tourism Karen Brazier said, "We were delighted to welcome so many buyers to Conference Winchester’s first two-day familiarisation visit. Our venues pride themselves on providing something a little bit different for their customers, and this weekend has been an ideal opportunity to showcase just what we can offer to the people who make the decisions."
Diane Slater, Director of Conference Winchester’s partner agency, Right Location, added, "Conference and meeting organisers these days are often keen to find a venue with a difference to enliven proceedings and to attract delegates. Whilst quality of service, location and accommodation remain high on their list of priorities, this weekend has shown that Conference Winchester can offer organisers all of these factors within a wide range of distinctive venues."
For assistance with planning corporate events in the Winchester District, ring Conference Winchester’s free venue-finding service on tel 0870 744 7022, fax 0870 744 2686 or e-mail enquiries@conferencewinchester.org.uk You can also request a copy of the Conference Winchester colour venue brochure.