The best places for a company retreat in the UK

Company retreats play an important role in boosting morale, improving communication, and fostering collaboration among teams. Whether they’re held in the countryside or a city, retreats help strengthen relationships and reduce stress by creating a positive work environment and providing a welcome break from everyday routines.

Choosing the right location for a company retreat can significantly affect its success. Fortunately, the UK has many excellent venues that are well-versed in hosting events like these.

Here are some great UK destinations for a company retreat.

1. Lake District

The Lake District offers an ideal natural setting for a retreat focused on relaxation and team building. Activities like hiking, kayaking, and nature walks can foster team cohesion among the inspiring scenery. William Wordsworth famously wrote many of his iconic works here. 

Hotel tip: Gilpin Hotel & Lake House combines luxurious accommodation with meeting facilities in a rural setting, making it an excellent choice for combining work and leisure.

Distance from London: 5 hours

Distance from Manchester: 1.5 hours

2. Edinburgh

For a city experience, Edinburgh is a top contender — its rich history and cultural scene make it an excellent location for a retreat. Possible team-building activities include Edinburgh Castle exploration, ghost tours, and whisky tasting. 

Hotel tip: Consider staying at the city-centre Balmoral Hotel for its comfortable rooms and conference facilities.

Distance from London: 5 hours

Distance from Manchester: 3.5 hours

3. Cotswolds

The Cotswolds, with its picturesque villages and rolling hills, is a great option for a more rural company retreat. The area boasts numerous boutique hotels and manor houses that cater to corporate groups. 

Hotel tip: Cowley Manor has meeting rooms, spa facilities, and gardens that are perfect for work sessions and evening relaxation.

Distance from London: 2.5 hours

Distance from Manchester: 3 hours

4. Bath

Bath, renowned for its Roman baths and Georgian architecture, combines historical charm with modern amenities. Team-building ideas in Bath include visits to the Roman Baths, cooking classes, and riverboat cruises.

Hotel tip: The city has several hotels suitable for corporate events, including The Gainsborough Bath Spa, which features access to natural thermal waters. 

Distance from London: 2 hours

Distance from Manchester: 3.5 hours

5. New Forest

The New Forest, with its expansive woodlands and open moors, provides a serene retreat location away from the bustle of the city. There are plenty of outdoor activities on offer in the area, including cycling, horse riding, and guided nature walks. 

Hotel tip: Chewton Glen, a country house hotel, is equipped with a spa and even has treehouse accommodation for a more unique experience.

Distance from London: 2.5 hours

Distance from Manchester: 5 hours

6. Cornwall

Although slightly further away from the UK’s main urban hubs, Cornwall has coastal scenery that makes the trip worthwhile. Plus, the region is perfect for outdoor activities such as watersports and coastal walks. 

Hotel tip: The Scarlet Hotel in Mawgan Porth has eco-friendly accommodation options, meeting spaces, wellness facilities, and sea views.

Distance from London: 5 hours

Distance from Manchester: 5.5 hours

7. Oxford

Oxford’s historic university town atmosphere is a great option for inspiring creativity and learning. For a unique and memorable team-building activity, look no further than punting on the River Thames or exploring the university’s historic colleges.

Hotel tip: The city has numerous venues suitable for corporate retreats, including Oxford Spires Hotel, which offers conference facilities surrounded by beautiful gardens. 

Distance from London: 2 hours

Distance from Manchester: 3.5 hours

8. Peak District

The Peak District is a good choice for any teams keen to get stuck into outdoor activities. Since it’s a national park, the Peak District is home to activities like rock climbing, caving, and hiking. 

Hotel tip: Losehill House Hotel & Spa offers comfortable rooms, meeting facilities, and natural surroundings, making it a perfect base for any adventurous agendas.

Distance from London: 4 hours

Distance from Manchester: 1.5 hours

9. York

York, with its rich history and charming mediaeval streets, is another excellent retreat destination. Possible team-building activities include guided historical tours, chocolate-making workshops, and ghost walks.

Hotel tip: The Grand York has luxurious room options and modern conference facilities.

Distance from London: 4 hours

Distance from Manchester: 2 hours

10. Snowdonia

Snowdonia, in North Wales, is known for its rugged mountains and scenic beauty. It’s ideal for companies looking to engage in adventure-based team-building activities such as hiking, ziplining, and mountain biking. 

Hotel tip: Palé Hall is a luxury rural country house that caters to corporate retreats.

Distance from London: 4.5 hours

Distance from Manchester: 2 hours

UK company retreats

Selecting the right location for a company retreat involves balancing work needs with opportunities for team building and relaxation. Whether your team prefers the tranquillity of the countryside or the excitement of a city, the UK offers diverse options. By choosing any of these top destinations, you can create a memorable and productive retreat experience for your team.

Find out how Navan makes booking team travel easy.