The county of Berwickshire has a turbulent past, lying as it does on the borders of Scotland and England. Nowadays, this accessible border location is precisely why it is popular with meeting planners as a destination for conferences, meetings and events.
Known previously as the ‘Merse’, this rich agricultural region was long fought over by the Scots and English. Retained for the most part by the Scots, the area is now recognised for its stunning coastline, an area of outstanding natural beauty full of wildlife, as well as its countryside and harbours, making it an ideal choice of location for outdoor pursuit teambuilding events and corporate activities. Dramatic landscapes, secluded coves and towering cliffs provide an impressive backdrop for outdoor events where delegates can truly leave the office behind.
Towns such as Duns are typical of the county and provide a glimpse of the real Scotland. Historic venues and castles, ideal for hosting majestic conferences and corporate events, allow delegates to experience the county’s rich heritage whilst modern hotels provide more contemporary conference and banqueting facilities.
Berwickshire is a convenient meeting destination being easily accessible from both England and Scotland. Main routes include the A1 and A68 by road, rail connections at both Berwick and Dunbar, and flights into Newcastle or Edinburgh airports for international conference delegates.
Whether looking to host small training events, outdoor corporate activities, secluded meetings or large-scale conferences, Berwickshire has a venue to suit every need. The county is brimming with magical historic venues, castles and stately homes experienced in providing first class service and facilities for discerning event organisers. For instance, Duns Castle provides the picture perfect setting for elegant corporate events, banquets and weddings being a spectacular venue with ‘wow’ factor sure to impress delegates! Alternatively Wedderburn Castle offers six meeting spaces able to accommodate up to 92 delegates whilst also catering for teambuilding events within the castle grounds, again providing a sumptuous setting for any event. Thirlestane Castle and the charming Manderston House, itself set within 56 acres, also provide conference rooms and banqueting suites for elegant corporate functions and weddings with style. Volunteer Hall offers a large, versatile space with capacity for 360 delegates whilst Berwickshire hotels are equally equipped to provide business-minded facilities and meeting rooms to suit all occasions, such as the Lauderdale Hotel. Major hotel or venue groups represented in Berwickshire county include Sodexo.