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Discover the allure of free event venues in County Durham, a region known for its rich history and stunning landscapes. Ideal for event organisers from medium to large organisations, these venues offer unique settings without the hire fee. Consider accessibility, capacity and amenities to ensure your event's success.

Explore Hardwick Hall's Elizabethan splendor for gala dinners, or host cutting-edge tech seminars at NETPark. County Durham's venues cater to every theme, with tailored spaces like the Gala Theatre for vibrant performing arts events.

VENUE VARIETY

County Durham's thriving business scene is energized by the presence of Durham University's cutting-edge research hubs and the dynamic Aycliffe Business Park, home to over 300 companies.

BUSINESS

Stroll through the enchanting Crook Hall and Gardens, catch live music at Bishop Auckland Food Festival, or delve into film at the historic Redhills: Durham Miners' Hall.

THINGS TO DO

County Durham offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern facilities, making it an ideal choice for hosting events. With venues like the Durham Castle, which boasts a heritage dating back to the 11th century, event planners can provide guests with an unforgettable experience in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle's grandeur is complemented by state-of-the-art amenities, ensuring a seamless blend of old and new.

For those seeking a more contemporary setting, the Durham Convention Centre presents a versatile space for conferences, exhibitions, and corporate gatherings. Its central location and cutting-edge facilities cater to a wide range of event requirements. Additionally, the Beamish Museum provides an interactive backdrop for events, where guests can engage with the living history of the North East.

Outdoor events find a picturesque setting in the Durham Dales, with its rolling hills and scenic landscapes, perfect for team-building activities or open-air functions. The Locomotion in Shildon celebrates the region's railway heritage and offers a distinctive venue for special occasions amidst historic locomotives.

Accessibility is a key feature in County Durham, with excellent rail links and proximity to major roads like the A1(M), making it convenient for attendees traveling from different parts of the country. With a variety of accommodation options, from cozy B&Bs to upscale hotels, guests can enjoy a comfortable stay.

In summary, County Durham presents a compelling mix of historical elegance, contemporary spaces, and natural beauty, all supported by accessible transport links and a range of lodging choices, ensuring a memorable event for all attendees.

County Durham

The United Kingdom has an excellent transport infrastructure, with a wide variety of options for getting around.

TRANSPORT

The United Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, from Big Ben to Stonehenge.

LANDMARKS

The United Kingdom has a rich cultural heritage, with a wide variety of traditional music, art and cuisine.

CULTURE

The United Kingdom is a country in northwestern Europe, off the coast of France. It is made up of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The UK has a long and rich history, and its culture has been influenced by many different peoples and nations. The UK is a leading economic and political power, and is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, such as Big Ben and Buckingham Palace. The UK is an excellent place to hold an event, with a variety of world-class venues and a wealth of experience in hosting events of all kinds.

United Kingdom

Explore top free event venues in County Durham for your corporate gatherings. Perfect spaces for impactful events without hire costs.

Free Event Venues in County Durham

Free Event Venues

A 12-screen cinema with an IMAX, perfect for corporate events, presentations, and conferences.

With exceptional comfort and incredible in-screen technology, ODEON Metrocentre is the ideal setting for your next company presentation, conference, or town hall event. Located in the vibrant Metrocentre, Gateshead, this venue boasts 12 luxury screens, including a stunning 176-seat IMAX screen, ensuring your message captivates every attendee. Enjoy advanced features like Dolby Cinema and RealD 3D for an immersive experience. The venue offers ample wheelchair spaces, disabled access, and branding opportunities to enhance your corporate identity. With comfortable recliner seating and complimentary Wi-Fi, your guests will feel relaxed and engaged. Plus, convenient parking makes it easy for everyone to attend. Elevate your corporate events at ODEON Metrocentre, where innovation meets comfort.

Modern ODEON Metrocentre auditorium with plush seating, ideal for corporate events.

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Modern ODEON Metrocentre cinema entrance with sleek design for film events and screenings.

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Theatre

Business

Screens

Rest of UK

ODEON Metrocentre

The largest conference and banqueting suite located on the first floor with its own entrance and natural daylight and its own private terrace and gardens. It can be divided to make two smaller spaces.  There is plenty of outdoor spaces for break out areas as well as easy access to the car park. 

Rockliffe Suite at Rockliffe Hall, elegant mansion for weddings and corporate events.

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Rockliffe Suite at Rockliffe Hall, elegant venue for meetings and outdoor events.

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Rockliffe Suite at Rockliffe Hall, elegant event space for corporate gatherings and banquets.

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Rockliffe Suite at Rockliffe Hall: elegant event space for networking and cocktail receptions.

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Rockliffe Suite at Rockliffe Hall: elegant venue for corporate events and gatherings.

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Rockliffe Suite

Other

Rockliffe Hall

A grand period room with lawn access, ideal for large events and team building in North Yorkshire.

The Drawing Room located on the ground floor is full of period features. This is our largest room and can hold 120 people theatre style and 80 delegates cabaret style. With doors leading out on to the lawns this is an ideal space for events that require outside breakout areas or if you are holding team building events.

Elegant Crathorne Hall Drawing Room, ideal for upscale corporate events and retreats.

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Elegant lounge at Crathorne Hall Hotel, perfect for networking events and meetings.

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Crathorne Hall outdoor event space with tree-lined pathway and expansive lawn.

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Drawing Room 

Crathorne Hall Hotel

A versatile creative space with various rooms for meetings and events, accommodating 6 to 100 people.

We have a number of different spaces at Pride Media Centre, including a boardroom and a small meeting room, as well as a versatile gallery that accommodates between 6 to 100 people. Our exciting venue offers a safe, welcoming, and creative environment for businesses and organisations to thrive. Equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and modern amenities, our spaces are perfect for meetings, workshops, and events. Experience the ideal setting for collaboration and innovation at Pride Media Centre, where your business can grow and develop seamlessly.

TV studio event space with vibrant lighting, red chairs for audience engagement, multimedia setup.

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Engaged audience at a vibrant conference in Pride Media Centre TV studio.

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TV Studio

Pride Media Centre

A restored 60-capacity old ballroom with stage, cinema screen, and automatic curtains. Ideal for diverse events.

Our 60-capacity venue room is an unearthed old ballroom that we've brought back to life whilst keeping all the original charm. This versatile space is perfect for screenings, meetings, live music, comedy, theatre, workshops, and more! Equipped with state-of-the-art features including automated blackout blinds, a large cinema screen, and high-speed WiFi, Bobiks offers an immersive experience for all your events. The enchanting atmosphere, combined with modern amenities, makes it an ideal choice for hosting memorable gatherings. Whether you're planning a corporate presentation or a private film screening, our unique venue provides the perfect backdrop for creativity and connection. Book your event at Bobiks today and enjoy a truly captivating experience!

Vintage event space with yellow tables, perfect for networking and dining.

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Elegant event space with rustic charm, ideal for weddings and gatherings.

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"Meeting space with large screen, seating for collaboration, ideal for workshops and events."

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Classroom

Screenings

Bobiks

London

A rooftop bar with 360-degree views, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for social gatherings.

Step out on to the rooftop terrace for breath-taking views of the Newcastle skyline. With it's atmosphere, entertainment from our DJs and live musicians, and spectacular views, it is the ideal spot to catch up with friends and colleagues while enjoying great food and cocktails.

Stunning Above Rooftop venue in Newcastle with sunset, ideal for corporate events and gatherings.

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Modern event space at Above Rooftop, Newcastle with blue ambiance and panoramic views.

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Stunning Above Rooftop venue in Newcastle with sunset, ideal for upscale events and gatherings.

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Stunning Above Rooftop venue in Newcastle with modern seating and sunset backdrop for events.

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Stylish Above Rooftop venue in Newcastle, perfect for upscale events and gatherings.

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Standing

Dining 

Above Rooftop

Newcastle

Above Newcastle

Historic Victorian pumping station turned elegant wedding venue with industrial charm.

Nestled within the historic Dalton Old Pump House, the Engine Room / Ceremonies space offers a blend of industrial grandeur and modern elegance, making it an ideal setting for a memorable wedding or exclusive event. The venue's Grade II listed status and meticulous restoration provide a backdrop of sophistication and charm. With the promise of exclusivity, couples can enjoy their special day with a sense of intimacy and grandeur. The space is versatile, capable of transforming from a refined ceremony location by day to a vibrant party setting by night. The Engine Room / Ceremonies is a testament to the venue's commitment to providing an unforgettable experience, complete with attentive service and a personal wedding coordinator to ensure every detail is perfect.

Elegant event space with chandeliers in Dalton Old Pump House for weddings and corporate events.

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Elegant event space with green walls, perfect for weddings and ceremonies.

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Elegant event space with chandeliers, ideal for weddings and corporate events.

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Wedding

Weddings

Engine Room / Ceremonies

Edinburgh

Dalton Old Pump House

A lively bar with bowling, darts, batting cages, and more. Perfect for fun group activities.

Imagine the best bar you've been to, then add all your favourite activities for an unforgettable experience at Lane 7 Durham. This vibrant venue is the ultimate destination for socialising, celebrating, and enjoying a variety of fun-filled activities. With features like duckpin bowling, beer pong, and cricket batting cages, there's something for everyone. Whether you're planning a birthday bash, corporate event, or a casual night out with friends, Lane 7 Durham offers a lively atmosphere, free Wi-Fi, and a selection of delicious drinks. Elevate your gathering with arcade games, shuffleboard, and darts, ensuring endless entertainment. Perfect for groups of all sizes, this hotspot is where friends and fun collide, making it the ideal choice for your next event. Book now and experience the excitement at Durham's hottest hangout!

Vibrant graffiti-covered event space in Durham for creative gatherings and product launches.

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Vibrant graffiti bowling alley at Durham Activity Bar for corporate events and team-building.

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Durham Activity Bar

Lane 7 Durham

A historic industrial venue with rustic charm, ideal for events, performances, and social gatherings.

Our main venue space is rich in history with an abundance of rustic and industrial-style charm. Perfect when you need a large space that can adapt to your event needs and requirements. This room provides the space and a beautiful backdrop for photo shoots, weddings, and corporate dinners.    We also have a Mezzanine event space that overlooks our main event space that and can provide that much-needed breakout room, drinks reception area, or designated VIP area.

Spacious Boiler Shop event venue with high ceilings, perfect for gatherings and receptions.

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Main Event Space in Boiler Shop with soundboard, ideal for conferences and concerts.

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Main Event Space in Boiler Shop with exposed beams, ideal for corporate and social events.

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Spacious industrial event venue with high ceilings, ideal for corporate and social gatherings.

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Modern event space with skylights, ideal for corporate meetings and social gatherings.

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Events

Main Event Space

Boiler Shop

A vibrant terrace with an enclosed outdoor area, ideal for casual events and parties up to 250 people.

The impressive and vibrant Santiago Sun Terrace, complete with an enclosed outdoor area, is top notch for networking events, awards evenings, finger food and drinks affairs, summer and Christmas parties for up to 250 people on a casual and relaxed mix and mingle basis. 

It's perfect for sparkling soiree in the sun - and when the sun goes down.

Santiago Sun Terrace outdoor event space with stylish seating for summer parties and networking.

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Santiago Sun Terrace: vibrant venue with stylish bar for meetings and events in Newcastle.

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Santiago Sun Terrace: modern outdoor event space with glass panels, ideal for gatherings.

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Santiago Sun Terrace: vibrant outdoor venue for casual gatherings and networking events.

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Buffet

Santiago Sun Terrace

Revolucion de Cuba Newcastle

A vibrant activity bar with bowling, games, BBQ dining, and multiple bars. Perfect for fun nights out.

This entertainment-powerhouse hosts BBQ dining, bowling, pool, ping-pong, karaoke, mini golf, and beer pong alongside bars on every floor and a photobooth. Lane 7 Newcastle is the ultimate destination for unforgettable events, combining thrilling activities with a vibrant atmosphere. Perfect for team-building days, birthday celebrations, or casual gatherings, our venue offers high-speed WiFi, delicious food, and a wide selection of drinks. Whether you're aiming for a strike on the bowling lanes or showcasing your vocal talents in karaoke, every corner of Lane 7 is designed for fun and engagement. Elevate your next event with a unique blend of entertainment and relaxation, all under one roof in the heart of Newcastle.

Stylish bowling alley at Newcastle Activity Bar, perfect for corporate events and team-building.

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"Vibrant graffiti arcade at Newcastle Activity Bar for casual gatherings and team-building events."

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Newcaste Activity Bar

Lane 7 Newcastle

A spacious, light-filled former warehouse with modernist design. Ideal for versatile events.

A former industrial warehouse hanger, our largest space is a light-filled contemporary hall with a neutral palette and design features that reference the building’s mid century, modernist origins including wooden wall paneling and exposed brickwork. Styling is complimented with commissioned installations by local artists.

Stylish event space with exposed brick walls, perfect for meetings and receptions.

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Spacious Biscuit Room venue with natural light for meetings and events.

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Spacious industrial venue with large windows for corporate events and social gatherings.

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The Biscuit Room

The Biscuit Factory

A large, versatile conference centre in the North East with modern facilities and ample parking.

Rainton Arena's Conference Centre is one of the largest indoor conference venues in the North East of England, offering purpose-built meeting and conference facilities. It is suitable for small or large conferences, training days, trade exhibitions, annual meetings, product launches, networking and corporate events. The venue provides modern technology, lighting facilities, internet access throughout, 900 free onsite car parking, nearby hotel accommodation, onsite bars and catering, flexible exhibition space, and an experienced support team. The dedicated conference team ensures outstanding attention to detail and can cater for up to 1750 delegates. The venue is well-maintained, versatile, and ideally located within the central belt of the North East. It has a very friendly, hardworking, and supportive team, making it a desirable space for a wide range of concepts to suit all demographics.

Elegant banquet setup at Rainton Arena for a gala or awards ceremony.

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Boxing ring at Rainton Arena for a dynamic gala event with elegant table setup.

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Rainton Arena conference with engaged crowd and vibrant live performance atmosphere.

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Illuminated Rainton Arena Conference Centre with carnival rides and ice skating rink.

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Elegant event space at Rainton Arena, perfect for galas and corporate events.

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Conference Centre

Rainton Arena

A light, intimate suite with garden access, ideal for ceremonies and wedding breakfasts.

This room is a gorgeous light and intimate room for either your ceremony or wedding breakfast with a garden area suitable for pictures. It has its own bar and washroom facilities as well as its own entrance.

Elegant Wansbeck Suite banquet hall at Britannia Hotel, ideal for weddings and events.

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Wansbeck Suite at Britannia Hotel: elegant event space with white chairs and gold sashes.