Conference and Event Venues in Portsmouth - the VIP option for your next event
Want a unique venue with the wow factor? Whether it's historic ships, iconic towers or awe-inspiring museums, Portsmouth has everything to impress your delegates and give them something out of the ordinary.
Portsmouth may be an island (the UK's only island city, in fact) but that doesn't mean its inaccessible. There are direct train routes from London taking just an hour and a half, or if you're driving then the M275 motorway takes you right into the heart of the city. Elsewhere, Portsmouth has regular ferry services not just to the Isle of Wight but also France, Spain and the Channel Islands, whilst Southampton Airport can be reached in just half an hour. All this means you get a trip to the coast that's as easy as it is enjoyable.
Arriving may be easy, but choosing between the city's many outstanding venue spaces will be anything but. You're spoilt for choice with some truly world-class attractions offering up their spaces for hire, alongside more modern city icons and a great many hotels too.
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
For starters, how about Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, home to HMS Victory, HMS Warrior and the Mary Rose? Centuries of history can be explored, and visitors are able to go on board these world-famous ships that changed the course of history. The museums and attractions within the Dockyard also offer flexible meeting, conference and wedding spaces, with packages to suit groups of all sizes.
Spinnaker Tower
Prefer something more modern? How about Spinnaker Tower, which has become emblematic of contemporary Portsmouth. From its view decks more than 100 metres above sea level you can take in stunning views out over Portsmouth, across the Solent, over to the Isle of Wight and back across the South Downs. There's even a glass floor for the brave, and iView panels giving the stories behind the view. Whether you want a wedding to wow or a meeting to motivate, Spinnaker Tower is sure to fit the bill.
Portsmouth Guildhall's Conference and Event Facilities
Have grand plans and need a venue to match? Portsmouth Guildhall could be the place for you. The historic city hall is well used to catering for events of all sizes, as well as a host of musicians, comedians and touring shows at its various venue spaces. From the sprawling main auditorium to the smaller (but wonderfully opulent) suites, there's choice to be had. In fact there are nine different spaces available - each offering various sizes, layouts and atmosphere
Portsmouth Museum & Art Gallery
There's yet more choice to be had at Portsmouth's Museums. First you have Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery - a stunning building that was once military barracks but now houses the collections that tell the story of Portsmouth and its people through historic objects, pieces of memorabilia and astounding artworks. The Ester Room (with its grand fireplace and large paintings) can host meetings or weddings, whilst the Activity Room is available for more creative pursuits.
D-Day Story
Alternatively, head to The D-Day Story, where the Dulverton Room can be configured for conferences, meetings, business receptions and more. Whilst at the museum your guests can take in the incredible exhibits and find themselves in the shoes of those who took part in D-Day. There's the impressive LCT 7074, the audio-visual displays depicting the Battle of Normandy, and the 83-metre-long Overlord Embroidery - to name but a few.
Henry VIII's Southsea Castle
Or how about Henry VIII's Southsea Castle? The historic fortification (in which the king stood to watch his beloved Mary Rose sink in 1545) is now a visitor attraction and a popular venue for weddings and events. The keep can host ceremonies, whilst the courtyard marquee has been used for receptions, markets and plenty more besides.
Portsmouth's position as a popular tourist destination means there are a great many hotels operating in the city - which themselves also offer venue hire as well. If you want a grand and stately room, somewhere your guests can stay the night, or just a steady option with all the latest tech you may need and fast connectivity, the hotel options should be top of the list.
The Queens Hotel
The Queens Hotel occupies an enviable spot overlooking Southsea Common and out across to the seafront. The historic building has welcomed royalty over the years and has undergone recent restoration work to bring it back to its former glories. Inside you'll find grandly painted ceilings, wonderful rooms and a dedicated team on hand to ensure your event runs smoothly.
The Ibis Hotel
Alternatively, the Ibis hotel near the city centre is a budget friendly option where you can host your guests in a central location, close to top attractions and with great road and rail links - all without breaking the bank. The on-site restaurant and bar means you'll have all you need close at hand.
The University of Portsmouth
Alternatively, take your pick from the huge selection available at the University of Portsmouth. There are over 150 rooms across its main campus to choose between - covering everything from small spaces that accommodate 20 people, right up to enormous lecture theatres. It can easily accommodate meetings, conferences, courses, exhibitions and networking events.
Head to the Visit Portsmouth website for more information, where our Venues in Portsmouth section has more details on all these places and so many more.
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