Oct
Corporate retreats are one of the best ways to reward your team, build stronger employee relationships, and foster collaboration. Whether it’s a small team or the whole company, retreats take employees away from the office to relax, recharge, and bond over shared experiences.
From team-building exercises to informal dinners, the perfect corporate retreat balances work, play, and downtime. And at the end of a busy day, a comfortable, flexible base is essential – which is why serviced accommodation from House of Fisher is such a popular choice; it allows your team to feel at home while keeping everything convenient and stress-free.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to planning a corporate retreat in the UK.
Step 1: Define Your Goals
Start by identifying what you want your retreat to achieve. Is it team-building, celebrating achievements, or brainstorming new ideas? Knowing your objectives helps shape every decision, from location to activities.
Step 2: Set a Budget
Determine how much you can spend and plan accordingly. Factor in accommodation, activities, travel, meals, and incidentals. Serviced accommodation can often provide a more cost-effective solution than multiple hotel rooms, plus extra space and flexibility.
Step 3: Pick the Perfect Location
Select a location that suits your goals and your team. The right setting ensures everyone enjoys their stay.
Step 4: Plan the Itinerary
A clear schedule ensures a smooth retreat. Include a mix of structured team-building activities, workshops, and downtime for relaxation. Balance is key to keeping everyone engaged and refreshed.
Step 5: Book Accommodation
Look for comfort, convenience, and flexibility. Serviced apartments from House of Fisher offer space for your team to relax, plus amenities such as meeting areas, Wi-Fi, and easy access to local attractions – perfect for corporate retreats.
Step 6: Arrange Activities
Activities bring teams together. The Thames Valley offers fantastic options for team-building and group fun, from treasure hunts through historic Windsor and adrenaline-pumping activities at Ascot Racecourse, to escape rooms and creative workshops in Reading, outdoor adventures and zip-lining near Bracknell, interactive cookery classes and team challenges in Basingstoke, and riverside canoeing or cycling excursions around Newbury. There’s something for every team, whether you’re after problem-solving, friendly competition, or just a chance to laugh and bond together.
Step 7: Organise Meals and Catering
Shared meals foster bonding. Consider breakfast, lunch, and dinner together, while being mindful of dietary requirements and consider options like self-catering, group dinners, or local restaurants.
Step 8: Include Downtime
Your retreat should balance activity with relaxation. Spa treatments, leisurely walks, or free time allow participants to recharge, keeping your team energised and engaged and enjoying the experience fully.
Step 9: Communicate Clearly
Keep participants informed with emails, WhatsApp groups, or shared itineraries. Include packing lists for activities or excursions to avoid last-minute stress.
Step 10: Reward and Recognise
Celebrate team achievements during the retreat. Recognition, small gifts, or awards can make the event feel even more special.
Step 11: Gather Feedback
Ask your team what worked and what could improve. Feedback ensures your next retreat is even more successful.
Benefits of a Corporate Retreat
Corporate retreats provide a break from routine and encourage a positive work culture. Key benefits include:
- Team Building: Strengthen relationships with structured exercises and informal bonding.
- Employee Reward: Show appreciation and help prevent burnout with fun and relaxation.
- Boost Morale: A well-planned retreat makes employees feel valued and motivated.
- Encourage Creativity: Non-office environments help spark ideas and collaboration.
- Facilitate Training: Workshops and sessions can be integrated into a relaxed, inspiring setting.
Why the Thames Valley is Ideal
The Thames Valley offers a wealth of locations and activities perfect for corporate retreats. Stay at one of House of Fisher’s serviced apartments in Reading, Bracknell, Newbury, Camberley, Farnborough, or Basingstoke and take advantage of nearby team-building opportunities.
House of Fisher’s serviced apartments make it easy to access all these activities while offering a relaxing base for your team.
Make Your Corporate Retreat Easy and Enjoyable
House of Fisher’s serviced apartments combine comfort, flexibility, and convenience. Whether you’re planning a small team getaway or a large company retreat, our properties provide the perfect base to make your corporate retreat productive, fun, and stress-free.
Book Directly and Save!
Remember to always book directly to guarantee the best available rates either by booking on our website, calling our friendly Reservations team on 01189 514151 or emailing reservations@houseoffisher.com