Although the last few decades have seen a rise in modern, purpose-built venues, a significant demand remains for more interesting, historical and unique locations to fulfil wider briefs and unique events.
Often, planners hosting more unusual events have to think outside the box, increasingly seeking a venue with ‘wow-factor’ to impress their guests. Whether you’re hosting a corporate event with a difference or an exclusive party, Keble College promises a beautiful and distinctive setting that will engage and inspire your guests.
The College doesn’t just cater for conferences and meetings. In fact, no request is too big, too quirky or too outrageous. Over the years, Keble has hosted a variety of incredible events, delivering tailored experiences to meet a range of client briefs including:
- A Harry Potter themed banquet in the Dining Hall
- The World Alpaca Conference in Liddon Quad
- A CMRS Programme showcasing Medieval Weaponry
- The BRDC Silverstone 85th Anniversary Dinner showcasing classic cars
- Multi-national Government summits
- Annual conferences for leading NGOs and charities
Keble College is an extremely flexible venue that can fulfil any brief. From small, private gatherings, to large scale events that require security cordons and the closure of the site to the public, clients can rest assured that all enquiries are handled with the utmost discretion. The College offers a range of rooms across its two sites that can be split into smaller spaces or used standalone to accommodate up to 250 guests. For example, The College offers a purpose built auditorium in the O’Reilly Theatre, featuring in-built AV booth and tiered seating for up to 240 guests – perfect for Theatre productions or recitals.
Founded in 1870, Keble is one of the biggest colleges at the University of Oxford and one of the City’s most interesting historical landmarks. Complete with striking red, polychromatic brickwork and stunning Victorian architecture, it’s an iconic setting, guaranteed to wow guests at more unique events. The more recent H B Allen Centre opened by HRH Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge in 2019 also brings modern charisma to the offering and further enhances the range of event space available.
The College features truly unforgettable locations, perfect for hosting more unique events, such as the breath-taking Neo-Gothic, Dining Hall. Rumoured to be the inspiration for The Great Hall in the Harry Potter films, it’s the longest in Oxford, seating up to 300 guests, featuring awe-inspiring stained-glass windows, high ceilings and a huge banqueting space. A guaranteed talking point, it’s an atmospheric setting that will take your event to the next level.
Keble’s Grade 1 listed buildings are complemented by beautiful Quads, boasting immaculate, striped lawns for an Instagram worthy outdoor setting. The spacious Quads are an ideal place for drinks receptions with room for a marquee, promising iconic views of the grounds. The stunning Chapel is also one of the most distinctive buildings in Oxford, featuring beautiful interiors with mosaics, stained glass windows, gothic arcades and a vaulted roof.
For events spanning multiple days, Keble College boasts over 400 ensuite bedrooms, and a further 50+ rooms with shared bathrooms housed in distinctive settings such as the Clock Tower. The College’s 24-hour event packages including convenient on-site accommodation and access to all event spaces including the Dining Hall allow the creation of a truly self-contained events experience.
Skilled at running every type of event imaginable, Keble’s dedicated Events Team can support anything from large banquets and gala dinners, private dining and discreet events, conferences, weddings, training/teaching and summer schools, to anniversaries, awards ceremonies, themed events and location filming.
Keble College regularly receives excellent feedback from organisers for its unique setting and exceptional service. The expert team have years of experience and no brief is too unique or unusual. Let Keble College’s wow-factor enhance your next special event. Click here and a friendly team member will be in touch to discuss your event requirements.
