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Industry insider May 2010
Whether you want to dance the evening away under the stars on the deck of London’s iconic HMS Belfast or entertain against the backdrop of a gothic mansion at Knebworth House, Prestige Experience has the some of the most prestigious heritage and sporting venues around the country. Combine these magnificent surroundings with great food, friendly professional staff and impeccable event and budget planning and a magical summer party is guaranteed.
HMS Belfast
As your guests are piped on board HMS Belfasthat takes in London Bridge, City Hall, the Tower of London and St Paul’s Cathedral, making is one of the best summer party venues in London. Once on board they can also relax with an ice cold Pimm’s on the Boat Deck in the early evening sun and enjoy a ship-made minted lamb burger from the barbecue before they dance the evening away with a live band.
Kerry Mutter, Sales Manager for HMS Belfast says, “When arranging your summer party in an outdoor venue, be sure to check they have a wet weather plan, British weather doesn't always perform as well as expected! On HMS Belfast we always have an alternative, and of course you'll have just as great an evening come rain or shine. If your company are paying for all the drinks (you lucky things), see if your venue can offer unlimited drinks packages by the hour, that way you don't have to worry about the mounting total, and there are no shocks at the end of the evening. On the Ship we offer a variety of options so our clients can create something that suits their needs exactly.”
Kerry continues, “BBQ's are a great British tradition, and a venue with outdoor space will mean that you can enjoy the iconic London views, and take a few moments to appreciate our great city. Onboard we have the most magnificent 360 degree views of London that take in some of the city's most famous landmarks, and we're even one of them!”
From £54.00 per person, plus VAT, The Deck Party includes hire of the Boat Deck, Pimm’s reception, summer finger buffet with wine and beer and a jazz duo. The Sailors’ Summer Party costs from £63.00 per person, plus VAT and includes hire of the Quarterdeck and additional function room, Pimm’s reception, Quoits, summer finger buffet with house wine or beer, jazz duo and live band until the end of the evening. The summer buffet menu features favourite recipes such as Cumin Scented Lamb Kofte Brochette with Minted Yoghurt Dip, Skewers of Coriander and Red Pesto Chicken, Salmon and Haddock Fishcakes with a Mustard Dipping Sauce followed by Eton Mess.
For those who wish to indulge further, and revel in the historical surroundings of HMS Belfast there are private tours by HMS Belfast veterans, or be piped on board just like the Admiral would have been! To add vibrancy and excitement to the evening, bring in professional dancers who can present a lively and entertaining demonstration in how to jitterbug. Or why not have our period actors recreate a new recruit’s introduction onboard the Ship? – with you and your guests as the recruits! Comedy and a little education in one well dressed package.
Click here to contact HMS Belfast
Knebworth House
With its stunning Rose Garden and Sunken Lawn, Knebworth House is the perfect venue for hosting a summer punch or Pimm’s reception. Guests will also love a summer barbecue on the patio of their 16th century tithe barns with giant patio games, refreshing drinks and ice creams. Family fun days are also popular at Knebworth as guests can make use of the extensive grounds as well as the dinosaur trail, miniature railway, fort Knebworth, maze and formal gardens.
Jenna Bateman, sales manager, Knebworth House says, “It is important to prepare for and analyse your event: Make sure you are clear about what you want to achieve. If an event has been held before, obtain feedback on what worked and what didn't last time, so guests return and enjoy themselves. Remember the party is all about your guests and there must be something for everyone, whatever their age or gender. Be creative and adventurous with the space you have booked.”
Jenna continues, “Plan your date carefully make sure it doesn't clash with a competitor's event, major sporting event or school holidays. Be prepared for the unpredictable British weather, if you're holding an outdoor event make sure you have a backup plan if the weather is bad on the day. Check if the venue have some inside space you can use or put a marquee or gazebo up to provide your guests with some shelter.
The stunning gothic turrets of Knebworth House set the stage for wonderful summer parties. Set in 250 acres of stunning parkland, guests can enjoy the heritage and atmosphere of Knebworth House and Park this summer with one of the seasonal packages on offer. Choose to party at the Tudor Barns with the summer celebration package from £35.00 per person where guests can enjoy a welcome drink of sparkling wine, a barbecue and bar until 11.30pm. Giant patio games are included and the package can be upgraded to include a disco and late license. Other options include jugs of Pimm's, ice cream, canapés and unlimited drinks package.
Click here to contact Knebworth House
Bateaux London
Whether you are looking to host a private party or a shared party night, Bateaux London is the perfect venue for a summer party. Guests can enjoy the long summer evenings cruising through the heart of the city on the river Thames, complemented by a summer cocktail, an ‘Off the Grill’ menu, and great entertainment.
The private summer party package starts at £65 per person including VAT and features a two and half hour cruise with summer cocktail on arrival, two course grill menu with tea and coffee as well as a live band and singer. The shared party nights start at £55.
With departures from Embankment Pier or any pier in central London, Bateaux London’s two vessels Naticia and Symphony cruise past the best views of London including the Houses of Parliament, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tate Modern, Canary Wharf and Tower Bridge on their journey down the Thames.
Click here to contact Bateaux London
For more information
Book a summer party through our central sales team, a group of dedicated professionals who look after your individual event from start to finish. For more information on venues call 0870 421 4868 or visit www.prestigemeetings.co.uk