The Venue Hunters

12/09/2024

Looking for a venue with a difference in Belfast for your next meeting or company event? Read on!
Yesterday I had the opportunity to visit the fantastic McConnell’s Distillery based at the Crumlin Road Gaol site.
What a brilliant venue it is, from the WOW factor when you walk in, to the wide range of spaces available for hire, the venue ticks so many boxes.
Available for hire 7 days a week, the space can accommodate boardroom meetings, private dining, standing receptions and conferences, as well as tours with or without a whisky tasting, cocktail making masterclasses, and its own onsite cafe and separate bar.
It's ideal for those who want to step away from traditional hotel meeting rooms, and with so much history everywhere you look, it's sure to keep guests engaged and interested.
If you'd like to find out more about planning your next event at this property, please get in touch 🥃

06/09/2024

I had a great afternoon yesterday at the beautiful Slieve Donard Hotel in Newcastle County Down.
Built in 1898 and set in fabulous surroundings with fantastic views of the Mourne Mountains and the sea, the hotel taken over by Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts in 2021 and has undergone quite the transformation since then.
Located right beside Royal County Down Golf Club, home of this years' Irish Open (taking place next week), it is the perfect setting for conferences, meeting and events, golf trips and incentive groups.
Beautifully refurbished following a substantial investment, the hotel has lots of little nods to it's history and it's connection to the local area.
A stunning hotel, with excellent service and a super friendly team, and only an hour from Belfast, it's a great option for anyone looking to escape the city and spend a day (or several) in an amazing setting.
I can't wait to come back! 😍

05/09/2024

Great to get a behind the scenes sneak preview of the final build stage for the Irish Open taking place at the Royal County Down golf course next week.
A fantastic set up, and the makings of what is sure to be an awesome event.
So good to see huge events like this taking place in Northern Ireland, with tens of thousands of visitors expected throughout the week, it will drive a huge amount of revenue into local businesses 😍
DP World Tour Irish Open

27/08/2024

Venue Spotlight - Weston Park
A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of staying at the amazing Weston Park.
Set in 1000 acres of parkland in the Shropshire countryside, the venue is easily accessible from Birmingham City Centre (30 minutes), Birmingham Airport (45 minutes) and Manchester Airport, as well as being accessible from London and the north by train.
From the minute we drove in it just felt special, like jaw-droppingly WOW.
We stayed in the 5 bedroom Victorian Wing, and couldn't fault it. Such a fantastic space, huge bedrooms, all of which were individually decorated, and great communal spaces including the 'Tent Room'.
After a super night's sleep, we were treated to a guided tour of the main house. It's difficult to put into words how wonderful the house is - endless spaces, all of which are unique, with huge windows and loads of daylight streaming in.
This property can cater for anything from small groups to larger events, and they offer exclusive hire for bookings with a minimum of 14 bedrooms.
The main house has 22 bedrooms and you can add the 5 bedrooms in the Victorian Wing to make a total of 27.
There are also a number of smaller self catering holiday cottages on the estate which can be hired separately or in conjunction with the main house.
The opportunities here are endless - incentive trips, product launches, meetings, conferences, client events, parties - you name it, Weston Park can do it.
So, do you need to blow your annual events budget on one night at Weston Park? Absolutely not! The venue is a lot more affordable than you might think!
I can't recommend Weston Park highly enough, we loved every single minute of our time there and will definitely be making a return visit.
Please get in touch with me if you would like to find out more about hosting your next event at Weston Park, I promise you won't be disappointed!

14/08/2024

Is the fabulous weather putting you in the mood to chill and enjoy some great food, drinks and Summer vibes?
Check out my choice of the best rooftop bars London has to offer ☀️🍹

Ah, London rooftop venues for hire during summer’s final fling! The sun’s out (some of the time). And there’s nothing quite like sipping a cocktail while soaking up the London skyline. So, fret not if you're scrambling around for last-minute London rooftop venues for hire for your summer event...

26/07/2024

Super excited to say that The Venue Hunters is now an official member of the IATA TIDS programme which allows bookings from travel sales intermediaries (agents) to be recognized by industry suppliers from airlines, hotel & resort chains, cruise lines, car rental companies, theme parks, and rail companies globally!
Not too bad for a little business like mine! 😍 💪

26/02/2024

I've just spent the most wonderful weekend at the stunning Castle Leslie Estate for my mum's birthday.
Having had my wedding here many moons ago, it has been a long time family favourite, and every time I visit I'm reminded of the many reasons why.

The main Castle offers 21 bedrooms, all of which are individually designed, with many of them offering amazing views across the Estate's lake. The Castle has lots of beautiful reception rooms, from the main sitting room, to the conservatory, library, billiards room, long gallery and the marquee which is a permanent fixture, and the ideal space for larger meetings and events. The Castle is available for exclusive hire, to include all of the bedrooms and reception rooms.

The Estate also has a lodge where we stayed, which holds an additional 50 bedrooms, with fabulous décor, rolltop baths, the Victorian Treatment Rooms and the 2AA Rosette award-winning Snaffles Restaurant. The Loft also houses some smaller meeting space, suitable for private dining and board meetings. The Castle and Lodge can be hired together to offer exclusive use of the entire estate.

Situated on a 1,000 acre Estate which is 60 minutes from Belfast, and 80 minutes from Dublin, Castle Leslie really is the ultimate venue for anyone wanting to hold an event with the WOW factor that will leave delegates talking for many years to come.

Get in touch for more information on holding your meeting or event at Castle Leslie Estate, I promise you won't be disappointed!!

E: [email protected] T: 07485 124334

21/02/2024

Great to catch up with Peter Shepherd at NFS Events The National Football Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast yesterday.
Home to the Northern Ireland football team, the stadium has lots to offer in terms of venue space for meetings and events.
The Education Centre provides a detailed history of the team (did you know the first NI shirt was actually blue?) and of Windsor Park, up to and including it's most recent development that was completed in 2016, and is great for standing receptions.
There are 10 corporate boxes, all with pitch views, which are the perfect spaces for breakout rooms, smaller meetings and interviews.
The venue also offers 4 large event spaces, all named after past legends of NI football, Pat Jennings, Danny Blanchflower, Billy Bingham and George Best, each one of which offers pitch views, and something a little different. With a maximum capacity of 220 seated in rounds in a single room, to space for over 500 across all 4 rooms, the stadium is suitable for all shapes and sizes of events.
You can also add a stadium tour into your event, and if you'd like your delegates to arrive in style that can be arranged on the NI official team bus!
So if you're planning a kick-off meeting ⚽or want to make sure your event hits the back of the net 🥅 get in touch and I'd be happy to discuss hosting your next event at Windsor Park.

19/02/2024

Is planning events keeping you awake at night, and turning your hair grey?
Never fear, your event planning Superheroes are here!
There are lots of reasons why you should think about engaging the services of a venue finder when planning your event, not least of which is the opportunity to tap into many years of experience and a little black book full of contacts.

This weeks Blog focusses on some of the reasons why a Venue Finder is the secret weapon you never knew you needed - until now! Check it out here https://www.thevenuehunters.com/post/why-use-a-venue-finding-agent

12/02/2024

With long bright days, lots of sunshine, the feeling of warmth on your face, and a chilled out vibe, it's not hard to see why many corporates are now opting for a big summer bash instead of an end of year Christmas party.

From roof tops to beaches and country estates to theme parks, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to incredible venues for your summer party.
Check out this weeks' Blog to find out why more clients are opting for fun in the sun ☀️

There’s a scorching rise in summer parties amongst corporate bookers. But Christmas parties, in comparison, are leaving many businesses cold. The annual festive frolics once reigned supreme as the work’s do to end all works do’s. Now, summer parties are on the up. So, grab your shades. We’re...

08/02/2024

What a fantastic evening I had yesterday at the launch party for the newly refurbished meetings and events spaces at the 5 ⭐ The Merchant Hotel Belfast.

Based in former bank headquarters, the hotel oozes character and charm at every turn, and has retained some of the banks features, including doors to the old bank vaults. The team have done an incredible job, and the event spaces are looking fabulous.

The largest event space the Rita Duffy Room can accommodate up to 200 people standing and in a theatre layout, and 150 people for a gala dinner. The room can also be split into 3 sections, all of which can be set up in a variety of layouts.

There are an additional 3 rooms on the same floor, which make ideal breakout spaces for larger events, and work equally well for smaller meetings, events and dinners.

On the 4th floor sits the Roof Garden which can accommodate groups of 40 to 70 people. Offering a Winter Wonderland theme from November to March, and a Summer Garden Party theme from April to October, the space works perfectly for private parties, corporate events and wedding celebrations. Hire of the Roof Garden includes use of your own outdoor terrace which offers great views across Belfast and beyond.

The hotel also offers a private dining room with it's own reception room, both of which are located off the stunning Great Room Restaurant, as well as the ultra exclusive V***e Clicquot Champagne Lounge 🥂

I really enjoyed the wine tasting session expertly run by Marco, where I had the opportunity to sample a range of the most popular wines offered by the hotel, and which are firm favourites with clients booking events and gala dinners.

Next stop was a viewing of the bedrooms with Josh. Rooms come in 2 types, Victorian Splendour with rich colours, antique mirrors and bespoke furnishings, and the spacious and light filled Art Deco rooms which include furniture from some of the most famous designers of the Art Deco period. It's impossible to pick a favourite as both room types really are beautiful!

Gym Manager Cathy gave me an update on the 6th floor gym which is free to use for guests staying at the hotel and also features a thermal area which includes a rock sauna, aroma steam room and a roof top hot tub. Individual and corporate memberships are also available at great monthly rates.

The service throughout the evening was exceptional, the team never fail to deliver, and it's clear that the staff are passionate about everything they do. Special mentions to Shéa who was certainly the Host with the Most, and the awesome Clare and Paula for your hospitality and the invitation, it's always a pleasure to see you both 😍

06/02/2024

Very excited to say that The Venue Hunters now has a Blog! 🤩
Really looking forward to sharing insights on some of the best UK and Ireland venues, and lots of useful information on all aspects of planning, booking and creating awesome events!
The first Blog focusses on Manchester, a City that is not only very accessible and cost effective, but has so much to offer for those arranging meetings, training, gala dinners and conference.
Check out the Blog on The Venue Hunters website by clicking the link below!

Corporate events in Manchester continue to soar in popularity as event organisers look to satisfy three key criteria: · Accessibility · Desirability · Sustainability So, Manchester might just be the destination for you if this resonates. Why? Because it’s a dynamic city. It’s easily accessibl...

25/01/2024

Lovely afternoon spent at the beautiful Montalto Estate with a client viewing the venue for an upcoming Summer event.
Great to catch up with Kevin Keenan and Natalia Maxwell for the tour.
What a stunning property with lots of fantastic indoor and outdoor spaces available.
The Carriage Rooms are offered on an exclusive hire basis, so you'll have access to a walled garden, a courtyard and several events spaces. Ideal for team away days, summer and Christmas parties and celebrations.

16/01/2024

I had an early start yesterday for the red eye flight to Birmingham to meet a client for a show round at the awesome Drayton Manor Resort.
It's a fantastic option for large scale company events and offers exclusive hire of the entire theme park, lots of onsite catering options and indoor event space, fields for camping or additional outdoor activities, and an onsite hotel. What's not to love! 😍
I'm super excited to have had the opportunity to source this super venue.
The client's Summer Festival is going to be incredible! 🎢🎡🎠

03/01/2024

The Venue Hunters is 5 years old!
It seems like yesterday that I decided to enter the world of self employment, and what a crazy 5 years it's been!
I've had the opportunity to work with the most incredible clients, venues and suppliers, organising all types of meetings, events, conferences, incentive trips, parties, large scale work events and group accommodation bookings.
Forever grateful to all those who have trusted me to look after their booking requirements, and for the awesome friends and contacts I have made along the way.
Here's to the next 5 years! 😍🥂

28/11/2023

BMA House is a stunning meeting and events venue located in Tavistock Square, London.

Home to the British Medical Association, and with a huge focus on sustainability (for which the venue has won numerous awards), it's within easy walking distance of Kings Cross St Pancras, Euston and Russell Square.

The venue offers a beautiful courtyard, ideal for summer parties, as well as lots of great indoor spaces including the Great Hall which my client used for their conference last Tuesday, and the Paget and Snow rooms which were used for exhibition space and catering.

The client gave some glowing feedback on the venue

'It was fantastic, the venue was brilliant and all the staff were so helpful and attentive'

If you'd like to find out about hosting your next meeting, conference or event at BMA House please get in touch with me for more details.

24/11/2023

World famous The Bushmills Inn Hotel & Restaurant played host to some clients earlier this week.
Located a 5 minute drive from the Giant's Causeway, and a 10 minute walk from the Bushmills Irish Whiskey Distillery 🥃 the venue oozes character, and offers a range of beautiful bedrooms, meeting space and even it's own cinema.
The clients spent 2 days at the hotel, and had the opportunity to do some team building in the form of a tour of the distillery and a cocktail making masterclass in between their meetings.
Delighted to receive such lovely feedback from the client following their visit.

'Rachel provided us with fantastic options of suitable venues for our team building away days. The venue (Bushmills Inn) was excellent, and very well received by our group in terms of the character of the hotel, standard of food/service and rooms/facilities.

Rachel - we really appreciated your support in helping us locate the venue, but indeed also your support in liaising with the venue in the lead up to the event.
Could not recommend The Venue Hunters highly enough!'

Shout out to Joanne, Mark and the rest of the team at the Bushmills Inn for looking after the clients so well 😀

23/11/2023

Today's the day!
After 5 months of work, 636 emails sent (and counting), numerous Teams and phone calls and a few sleepless nights, my client's are taking over the brand new Peninsula Ballroom the InterContinental London - The O2 for their afternoon conference and evening gala dinner.
The ballroom is currently being transformed before guests arrive at 1pm for an epic day.
As a Venue Finder, my involvement doesn't stop when the venue contract is signed, for this event I've sourced group accommodation, transport, AV, entertainment, photobooth etc, and have been liaising with the clients and all of the suppliers on every detail.
How much have my services cost the client? NOTHING!
My venue finding services are free, and in this case I've been able to save the client quite a bit of money along the way.
There are lots of people like me, small business owners and sole traders who work our socks off behind the scenes to help make our client's events a success.
This is just one booking for one client, and the tip of the iceberg in terms of our overall workload.
So if you've never used a Venue Finder before, and want to tap into the knowledge and expertise of someone who has worked in the industry for many years when planning your next event please get in touch!

29/09/2023

Flights booked ✔️
Cases packed ✔️
Looking forward to this weekends with Edwardian Hotels London finding out all about their fantastic 4 and 5 star properties.
Let the fun begin! 😍

04/09/2023

Blown away by this amazing review from a lovely new client 😍

'Amazing, to say the least!

Incredibly friendly, thoughtful and lovely service from Rachel. She was very quick to understand our needs for an ideal venue, contact several venues in the Belfast area, and come back with ample information about each venue. We had so many to choose from! What's more, Rachel coordinated an entire day of bookings for us at the last minute and on a tight schedule due to an evening flight on the same day bookings are taking place. I would 1000% recommend Rachel and her services to anyone in the need of a fabulous Belfast venue, with even better customer service along the entire journey!'

Thank you Sarah for your very kind words!

17/04/2023

Great start to the week with a visit to Titanic Belfast with a client for a site visit for a Gala Dinner.
Thank you to the lovely Beth for showing us around.
What an awesome venue and certainly one with the WOW factor!!

14/02/2023

Wishing you all a very Happy Valentines Day.
I hope you get to spend it doing what you love, with the people you love 💕

13/02/2023

The view from my ‘office’ this week 😍☀️
I may be on holiday, but the new bookings keep on coming. If I need to work then at least it’s with fabulous views! ❤️

08/02/2023

Delighted to secure this beautiful property, and 5 additional cottages in the New Forest for one of my lovely clients.
They run leadership development courses, and large spaces to meet, and cook together are really important to them, along with lots of outdoor space. Set on a 230 acre farm, surrounded by gorgeous scenery, this property ticked all their boxes! 😍

03/02/2023

What a great morning catching up with the very lovely Michelle Davis from Staycations NI at Waterman House in Belfast.
What an incredible venue, with event space, private dining rooms, and an awesome cookery school which is ideal for a team building experience. Lots more to come on Waterman House soon!

01/02/2023

The month of all things love has officially arrived. Wishing you all an awesome February 😍

28/01/2023

Sad news from Flybe this morning as they cease trading with all future flights cancelled.
You can read the full statement here https://www.flybe.com/en

22/01/2023

A Sunday well spent brings a week of content.
Beautiful meal at the Ballygally Castle Hotel this afternoon.
The carvery was fabulous. Unfortunately I’d eaten my starters before I thought to take a picture 🤦🏼‍♀️
The food was amazing and the service was brilliant too ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
If the rest of the week is as good as today it’s going to be an awesome one! 😍

11/01/2023

The Ballygally Castle Hotel part of the Hastings Hotels group is an absolute gem, set in the most stunning of surroundings.
Just 30 minutes from Belfast, the hotel is situated on the North Antrim Coast, with amazing sea views, and beautiful scenery.
The Ballygally Castle is a great alternative to city centre hotels, for those looking to get away from it all for teambuilding events, wellness retreats and incentive trips, with 56 lovely bedrooms, many of which offer wonderful views.
This venue is ideal for summer parties and BBQ's, with a big terrace and lush gardens, as well as a great private event space in the gardens which would be well suited to the likes of yoga and pilates.
Fancy a dip in the sea? Group paddleboarding sessions can also be arranged to add an extra element to your stay.
For the Game of Thrones fans out there, the door at the entrance to the restaurant is carved from branches from the world famous Dark Hedges, and the Gobbins visitor centre and cliff walk are just a short drive away.
Get in touch if you'd like some more information on this awesome venue and all it has to offer (which is a lot!)

11/01/2023

Where else would you find a hotel with stunning views like this on the front doorstep than at the Ballygally Castle Hotel
They even arranged a rainbow 🌈 for my arrival! 😍
More info to follow on my visit to the hotel this morning.