What Makes a Great Boardroom?
Before we dive into the specific locations, it’s essential to understand what makes a boardroom great.
A great boardroom should offer comfortable seating and spacious tables, especially since you never know how long these meetings might last. Therefore, ensuring guests are comfortable is a top priority. The room should be fully equipped with audio-visual equipment, high-speed internet, and conferencing facilities. The ambience should be both professional and inspiring, with natural light, tasteful decor, and perhaps a touch of history or art. Furthermore, accessibility is crucial, so locations with good transport links are preferred. Finally, support services such as catering, administrative support, and other amenities can make a significant difference in the smooth running of the experience. For example, providing high-quality meals and refreshments is essential for maintaining energy levels and fostering a productive, enjoyable meeting environment.
1. Fortnum & Mason, London
Fortnum & Mason are the epitome of luxury and heritage. Established in 1707, this iconic store in Piccadilly London is renowned for its high-quality goods and exquisite shopping experience. However, if you didn’t know already, Fortnum & Mason aren’t just about shopping, they also offer 11 unique event spaces across their flagship Piccadilly location and the Royal Exchange. Their boardroom at Piccadilly is an elegant room with lovingly restored antique furniture, able to seat up to 24 guests. The room effortlessly blends of historical charm with modern functionality, providing an inspiring setting for high-level discussions and decision-making. The combination of its central location, and refined atmosphere makes it an excellent choice for board meetings. As well as being right on top of Piccadilly tube station and many other transportation links.
2. Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, Manchester
In the heart of Manchester, the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel is not hard to miss with its stunning Victorian design and infamous clocktower. This hotel perfectly marries historic architecture with modern amenities, creating a unique and stylish environment. The hotel has 17 versatile event spaces, all ranging in sizes, and all designed with character and quirkiness, featuring high ceilings, natural light, and the necessary technology to facilitate productive meetings. The Clocktower 3 room can accommodate up to 20 guests, with additional spaces available for larger groups.
With its central location, you only have to step outside, to find yourself at the doorstep of the Palace Theatre. A short walk will take you to many vibrant eateries, cocktail bars, and museums. Manchester has really come into its own in the past few years, evolving into a buzzing city with so much to offer your guests.
4. InterContinental Edinburgh The George, Edinburgh
The InterContinental Edinburgh combines historical charm with modern luxury. This architectural gem offers 7 event spaces, each with their own unique features.
The Library is an exceptional choice for board meetings, featuring original Georgian elements, an open fire, and can accommodate up to 30 guests in boardroom style.
Beyond the meeting room, Edinburgh offers a wealth of activities for your guests. They can visit the historic Edinburgh Castle, wander the gothic streets of the Old Town, or explore the elegant New Town. For those looking for a bit of adventure and stunning views they could attempt to climb Arther’s Seat.
Edinburgh is a great destination for meetings, conferences and incentives. You can read one of our previous blogs ‘Conference Venues in Edinburgh’ to find out more about hosting conferences in this historic city.
Selecting the right boardroom can significantly impact the success of your meetings. These top five boardroom locations in the UK offer not only the necessary amenities but also unique environments that can help to inspire and motivate. From the historic elegance of Fortnum & Mason and Cliveden House to the vibrant, modern settings of Kimpton Clocktower Hotel and NHow London, there is a boardroom to suit every need and preference.
If you would like the Black Book team to help with your next board meeting or event, contact us today.