12 Unusual Corporate Summer Party Venues

With winter halfway through, many companies across the UK begin planning this year’s corporate events.  However, why settle for the same-old venues when there are so many unusual and exciting options available? From historical landmarks to quirky outdoor experiences, the UK offers a wide array of unique locations to make your corporate summer party unforgettable. Here’s a roundup of the UK’s most unusual corporate summer party venues that will leave a lasting impression on your employees and clients alike.

The Floating Pocket Park – Paddington, London

If you want to combine urban charm with a natural, eco-friendly environment, the Floating Pocket Park in Paddington is a standout option. This floating garden on the Grand Union Canal offers a serene space surrounded by water, lush greenery, and open skies. The tranquil setting is ideal for summer parties, offering a refreshing escape from the city hustle. The space can be transformed for various events, from relaxed garden parties with BBQs and lawn games to more formal corporate functions, with the sound of the canal and nearby wildlife creating a relaxing backdrop.

Cheddar Gorge Caves – Somerset

For a truly extraordinary venue, consider hosting your summer party in the heart of Cheddar Gorge’s ancient caves. These stunning limestone caves provide a dramatic and atmospheric setting for an unforgettable event. The Gough’s Cave event space, with its natural rock formations and atmospheric lighting, can host banquets, dinners, and receptions. Guests can explore the incredible underground scenery or take part in outdoor activities such as rock climbing and caving before settling into the unique party space. Cheddar Gorge combines adventure and awe-inspiring surroundings, making it perfect for a corporate event that stands out.

Bristol Harbour – Private Boat Hire

Turn your summer party into a floating celebration by hiring a private boat along Bristol’s famous harbor. Several companies offer bespoke private boat charters, where you can cruise the waters while enjoying drinks, dining, and entertainment. With the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge in the backdrop, and Bristol’s vibrant waterfront culture on display, add a nautical twist to your corporate event. You can customise the experience with themes, catering, and entertainment to create a memorable, relaxing day out on the water for your team.

The Postal Museum – London

For a truly unusual corporate party venue, how about celebrating underground? The Postal Museum offers not just a history lesson but a unique ride through the Mail Rail—London’s hidden postal train tunnels. This subterranean space is perfect for creating a memorable event, offering a mix of industrial charm and quirky appeal. The main event space can be transformed to suit various themes, and guests can take a trip on the Mail Rail itself, turning your summer party into an unforgettable experience.

Alnwick Garden – Northumberland

If you’re looking for a magical outdoor venue, Alnwick Garden offers something truly unique. Home to the famous Poison Garden, which is filled with toxic and deadly plants, and the world’s largest treehouse, this venue is far from ordinary. The treehouse itself can host corporate events, with its rustic interiors, hanging bridges, and sprawling views of the surrounding gardens. Whether it’s a sophisticated garden party or a playful summer festival, Alnwick Garden provides a charming and whimsical backdrop for a memorable event.

The Roman Baths – Bath

Imagine hosting a summer party in the midst of ancient Roman history. The Roman Baths, one of the best-preserved Roman sites in the world, offers a truly spectacular setting for corporate events. As twilight falls, the steaming Great Bath is lit by flickering torches, providing an atmospheric and historic backdrop to your party. Guests can wander through the ancient architecture, enjoy drinks on the terrace overlooking the hot springs, and soak in the rich cultural history of Bath. It’s a perfect setting for companies looking for an elegant and sophisticated summer event.

ZSL London Zoo – Regent’s Park, London

If your team is wild at heart, why not consider ZSL London Zoo for your next corporate summer party? The zoo offers a range of unique event spaces, including the Penguin Beach and the Land of the Lions. These vibrant settings provide an opportunity to combine fun with a good cause, as all proceeds go towards wildlife conservation efforts. From an exotic barbecue in the heart of the zoo to cocktail receptions surrounded by rare animals, ZSL London Zoo offers a party with a purpose, bringing guests closer to nature in the middle of the city.

Junkyard Golf Club – Manchester

For those who want to inject some playful fun into their summer party, Junkyard Golf Club in Manchester is an unusual yet entertaining choice. The venue combines crazy golf with quirky, neon-lit environments crafted from reclaimed materials, giving it a vibrant, retro atmosphere. With a fully stocked bar and a variety of crazy golf courses featuring anything from circus themes to scrapyard vibes, this venue guarantees a casual and light-hearted summer party with a twist. It’s ideal for team-building events or parties that emphasize fun, interaction, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Camp Katur – Yorkshire

Looking to combine team-building activities with a summer party? Camp Katur in North Yorkshire is a glamping village nestled in a private 250-acre estate. The venue offers a variety of unusual accommodations, from geodomes to safari tents, and a large events space for parties, making it ideal for a summer getaway. It’s more than just a party spot—you can incorporate activities like bushcraft, archery, and even obstacle courses. This venue brings an adventurous and outdoor spirit to your event, providing a retreat-like experience for your team.

The Crystal Maze Live Experience – London and Manchester

Bring the nostalgic fun of the 90s TV show to life at The Crystal Maze Live Experience. This venue, available in both London and Manchester, offers a corporate event like no other, as guests compete in physical and mental challenges across different themed zones. Ideal for team-building, this immersive and interactive experience allows colleagues to work together in a thrilling and light-hearted setting. Once you’ve made it through the maze, the venue offers food and drink options to cap off your unusual and adventurous summer party

Edinburgh Castle – Edinburgh

For a summer party with a truly majestic setting, Edinburgh Castle provides an impressive and historic venue. Perched atop a hill, with stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside, the castle is a dramatic location for a corporate event. Your guests can explore the ancient halls, enjoy dinner in the Queen Anne Room, and even witness the firing of the famous One O’Clock Gun. Whether you’re planning a grand banquet or a cocktail reception, Edinburgh Castle offers a venue steeped in history and grandeur.

The Eden Project – Cornwall

For a corporate summer party surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and innovative architecture, the Eden Project in Cornwall is an extraordinary venue. Famous for its massive biomes that house diverse ecosystems from around the world, the Eden Project offers an unforgettable setting for events. You can host your party inside the Mediterranean or Rainforest Biomes, creating an immersive experience where guests can explore tropical environments and exotic plants. The outdoor gardens also provide stunning views, perfect for a summer BBQ or garden party. The venue emphasizes sustainability and eco-friendly practices, making it a great choice for companies focused on environmental responsibility. The Eden Project combines nature, education, and spectacular scenery to offer a summer party venue that is truly one of a kind.

To sum up: When it comes to corporate summer parties, choosing an unusual venue can transform a standard event into something truly special. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious island getaway, a historic Roman backdrop, or an adrenaline-filled adventure, the UK is brimming with unique locations to suit any type of celebration. Opting for one of these extraordinary venues ensures your summer party will not only impress but also create lasting memories for your employees and clients alike.