Corporate Events, Incentives, Conference Management | First Event

News

Top 6 UK Conference Destinations

Looking for the perfect UK conference venue but don’t know where to start? Here’s our expert guide to the top UK conference destinations for 2025 and beyond.

Why is Newport a top choice for UK conferences?

Newport International Convention Centre (ICC) is the UK’s newest purpose-built conference venue, offering a 1,500-seat auditorium, exhibition hall, versatile meeting rooms, and extensive networking areas flooded with natural daylight. Its convenient location near the M4, close to train links and international airports, makes it easy for delegates to attend from anywhere. After a productive day, delegates can enjoy seven excellent restaurants and over fifty local hotels for a comfortable stay. Newport ICC is perfect for delivering impactful conferences with exceptional event design and management.

Why is Liverpool a popular destination for conferences?

Liverpool’s stunning skyline, cultural landmarks, and vibrant food and nightlife scene make it an appealing destination for conferences and corporate events. ACC Liverpool, part of the Liverpool event campus, provides interconnected arena, convention, and exhibition spaces capable of hosting large-scale UK conferences. Its central location, excellent transport links, and proximity to a wide range of hotels and the international airport make it convenient for delegates. For event planners, Liverpool offers a city that combines accessibility, style, and memorable experiences for delegates.

Why should you consider Belfast for your next UK conference?

ICC Belfast is located at the heart of the city and offers a 2,200-seat auditorium, multipurpose halls, 20 meeting rooms, and extensive networking areas. The venue is just five minutes from George Best Belfast City Airport and a short walk from the train station. With hotels ranging from luxury five-stars to quick overnight stays, Belfast provides all the necessary infrastructure for seamless event management. For corporate event planners, Belfast blends cultural appeal with practical accessibility, making it a smart choice for impactful UK conferences.

Why is Glasgow emerging as a major conference destination?

Glasgow is one of the UK’s most culturally vibrant cities, and the SEC Armadillo, part of the Scottish Event Campus, is ideal for national and international conferences. Its technical facilities and flexible spaces support creative event design and strategic conference planning. Glasgow’s hotel sector has expanded rapidly, and its excellent transport links make it increasingly popular for major events. For event agencies, Glasgow offers a dynamic environment where creative event strategy and delegate experience go hand in hand.

Why is Birmingham a top choice for UK conferences?

Birmingham boasts iconic venues such as Birmingham Town Hall, Symphony Hall, and the NEC, catering to a wide range of group sizes. Its central location provides easy access from across the UK by car, train, or bus, with an international airport offering daily flights worldwide. For corporate event planners, Birmingham combines convenience, scale, and prestige, making it an ideal city for high-profile UK conferences and professional event marketing.

Why is Telford an underrated conference destination?

Telford International Centre, part of a £250 million investment in a modern Convention Quarter, is purpose-built for contemporary conferences and hybrid events. Nestled in the scenic Shropshire countryside, it offers hotels, restaurants, bars, and leisure facilities on-site. Telford is highly accessible by car, train, and less than an hour from Birmingham International Airport. For event planners and agencies looking for a flexible venue with strong event management capabilities, Telford delivers both convenience and a unique scenic backdrop.

Why should you consider hybrid events for your next conference?

Hybrid events combine in-person and virtual experiences, giving businesses the flexibility to reach wider audiences and adapt to changing circumstances. Unlike traditional conferences, hybrid events live longer because content can be recorded and accessed on demand, allowing delegates to engage at their convenience. They reach wider audiences beyond physical limits, giving your event global appeal. With no restrictions on attendee numbers and on-demand content, hybrid events offer unlimited potential for engagement, networking, and learning. Integrating hybrid options into UK conferences ensures maximum impact, demonstrates forward-thinking event strategy, and creates lasting value for both organisers and delegates.

How can an event agency help plan your conference?

Partnering with a professional event agency ensures your conference is executed flawlessly from concept to completion. Event agencies bring expertise in event strategy, event marketing, event design, and full-scale event management. They help create memorable, engaging, and high-impact UK conferences while handling logistics, delegate experience, and creative elements.

Ready to elevate your next UK conference? Get in touch with our experts to explore venues, hybrid event solutions, or bespoke event strategy tailored to your needs.

Related Articles 

Ultimate Conference Planning Checklist

How to Create Engaging Conference Content

Everything You Need to Know About Hybrid Events in 2025

Written by:

Hannah Whitehouse- Anders

As our destination expert, Senior Business Development Exec, Hannah, is the go-to person for invaluable hotel and venue recommendations. Equipped with exceptional collaboration skills and a deep understanding of our clients and their requirements, Hannah translates ideas into reality with creativity and passion.