Planning a team building experience, but not sure where to start? Whether you're organising a half-day activity for a small team or a full weekend getaway for the whole company, team building takes a little more thought than simply booking an activity and hoping for the best. Luckily, you've come to the right place. With the right approach you can organise an experience that's engaging and worthwhile, you just need to know where to start.
Whilst the dreaded phrase 'team building' once fostered images of icebreakers and trust exercises, nowadays corporate teams are increasingly looking for experiences that feel more meaningful and collaborative, whether that's a cookery masterclass, wellness-focused retreat, or an outdoor getaway. There are plenty of reasons why you should be looking to invest in team building, from improving communications across departments and welcoming new starters into the team to boosting overall team morale. No matter your motivation, we're here to help guide you every step of the way.
One of the biggest considerations when planning any corporate event is choosing the right venue. Whether it's a sprawling countryside estate, or a city-based spot for an action-packed afternoon, there are countless venues for team building across the UK. The venue will influence every other decision, from transport logistics to catering options - so it's worth taking some time to get it right.
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To help you navigate the planning process, we’ve broken down everything you’ll want to consider when organising a team building experience, from setting clear objectives and establishing a budget to choosing activities and sorting transport for your guests. Read on for our step-by-step guide to planning a successful corporate team building event.
1. Define your team building objectives
Before you start researching venues or activities, it's worth taking some time to establish exactly what you want to achieve. Team building events can serve a wide variety of purposes, but the type of experience that works for one group may fall flat for another. Are you hoping to strengthen communication between departments that don't normally work together? Do you want to reward your team after a particularly busy quarter?
Your objectives should inform every stage of the planning process, so it's good to have them front of mind from the start. For example, teams looking to focus on collaboration may be well-suited to an escape room, allowing them to put their heads together for a bit of problem-solving. Clear goals are also important for keeping your guests engaged. No one wants to feel like they're wasting their time on an activity for the sake of it.
2. Think about your audience
Once you've defined your objectives, it's time to think carefully about who you're planning this for. Team building activities should be inclusive, and that means taking the time to understand your group before you start browsing options. Consider factors such as age range and physical ability. It's also worth thinking about the existing dynamic within the team. A group that already knows each other well will have very different needs from a team that's just been put together.
TOP TIP: Put together a quick, anonymous, survey ahead of the planning process to gather feedback from the team on what people actually want to do. That way you can easily streamline your event with your audience in mind.
3. Establish a realistic budget
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Hayne House, Kent, has fixed-cost packages for various team building opportunities, including 'Team Building Walk & Bush Craft', and 'Orienteering'.
Budgeting is one of the most important steps when planning a team building experience. Costs can vary significantly depending on the size of your group, the type of activities you choose, the number of participants, and whether the event lasts a few hours or several days. It's worth establishing a per-head figure early on, as this will allow you to filter your options quickly and avoid wasting time on venues outside of your budget.
Key expenses to account for may include:
- Venue hire
- Accommodation
- Food and drink
- Activity costs
- Transport
- Extra equipment
If you’re planning a multi-day event or overnight stay, make sure you factor in additional costs such as breakfast, transfers and hospitality packages. It’s also sensible to leave room in your budget for unexpected expenses.
Not every team building event needs to involve a huge budget. There are plenty of affordable venues for team building that offer flexible packages. Those looking to cut costs may consider offpeak bookings, such as midweek or afternoon bookings. Many venues offer delegate rates, so you may be able to bundle room hire, catering and equipment costs into one fixed fee.
4. Choose the right venue for your objectives
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Boom Battle Bar, Liverpool, offers varied activities for your upcoming event, from karaoke and darts to axe throwing and shuffleboard.
Choosing the right venue is arguably one of the most important decisions you'll make when planning a team building experience, so it's important to get it right. Not only does it set the tone for your whole event, but you'll want to make sure it's in an ideal location, and is easily accessible for your entire team. When assessing potential venues, there are several factors worth considering:
Location
You'll find team building venues across the country, whether you're looking for a city-based spot or something that allows your team to escape to the countryside. Venues near major train stations or airports are often the easiest option for teams travelling from multiple offices, whilst more remote venues are perfect for those looking to properly switch off from work.
Got a location in mind? We've rounded up some of our favourite spots across all the major counties. Explore the best venues for team building and corporate away days in Hampshire, Oxfordshire, East Sussex, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and more.
Accessibility
Transport links are also key when ensuring your team can travel. Is the venue close to major motorways or train stations? Is it easy to move between spaces if you have multiple activities planned throughout your event.
Consider disability-friendly accommodation or activities if these are part of your team building experience, as you'll want to make sure that everyone feels comfortable and is able to participate. Talk to your venue about relevant adjustments that could be made.
LET US SORT THE VENUE FOR YOU
Did you know that we have a free concierge service that can help you find a venue for your next conference? Once you've figured out your date, guest numbers and budget, be sure to enquire with our concierge and we'll help you find the perfect conference venue.
Activities
If activities are the main focus, outdoor space or dedicated activity zones may be essential. Many venues partner with companies who can assist with activity planning, or you may want to consider choosing a venue that is activity-focused and building the rest of your event around that.
Accommodation
Accommodation can also be essential, particularly for overnight events or company retreats. Consider hotel venues across the country, or team building venues with accommodation to simplify the planning process and keep everything under one roof.
5. Select activities that suit your team
![group cooking class at The Avenue Cookery School]()
The Avenue Cookery School, Wandsworth, is well-suited for hands-on team building activities, offering a selection of unique cooking classes.
When it comes to choosing a team building activity, it's important to choose something that suits your team. You want something that feels inclusive and engaging, but also feels relevant to your group and the objectives you're trying to achieve with your team building experience.
Popular corporate team building ideas include:
It’s important to ensure that activities are accessible and comfortable for everyone attending. Whilst some employees may enjoy high-energy physical challenges, others may feel excluded by something overly competitive. If you’re planning a longer event, then you'll want to consider having a wide variety of options, combining activities with free time to keep energy levels high.
For more activity-based inspiration, be sure to check out our guides to London's best venues with activities, as well as the UK's best summer party venues with activities.
6. Consider food and drink options
Whilst food is often the main event at any event, when it comes to team building, it can often be an afterthought. If you're planning an activity-focused event, you'll want to plan some time to refuel with food and drink. This also allows for further opportunities for your team to relax and mingle throughout the day.
Many venues for team building now offer flexible dining options, so you can work with a venue to tailor menus to your event. The right style of catering will depend on the atmosphere you’re trying to create. For example, a relaxed networking evening may benefit from interactive food stations or bowl food. Be sure to check with your guests and brief your venue on relevant dietary requirements and allergies well in advance. Those planning overnight stays or longer days may also need to account for breakfast, refreshments and potentially evening drinks.
For some teams, the food itself can become part of the team building experience. A private cooking class or a group barbecue could easily double up as both activity and catering.
7. Plan transport and accommodation logistics early
![stylish restaurant interiors, the exterior at Crazy Bear Stadhampton, and team-building shooting activity]()
Places like Crazy Bear Stadhampton, Oxfordshire bring everything under one roof. Take part in team-building activities, and make the most of on-site restaurants and accommodation.
One of the easiest ways for a team building event to become stressful is due to poor logistics. Once you've confirmed your venue and activity, you'll need to think practically about how your team is going to get there. Transport and accommodation arrangements should ideally be confirmed as early as possible, especially for larger groups or during peak seasons such as summer. For city-based events, sharing clear public transport directions in advance is usually sufficient. For out-of-town venues, you might consider arranging a group coach or minibus, or ensure your venue has ample parking.
For overnight events, try to keep accommodation as close to the activities as possible. Venues that bring everything together under one roof provide the smoothest experience, allowing guests to fully relax without having to move between locations. Country house venues and large-scale hotels are often popular choices for corporate away-days and team building events. Many even offer a dedicated event coordinator who can assist you with programme planning.
8. Build a balanced itinerary for your event
Whilst it can be tempting to pack the day with activities, you'll want to be cautious that you don't overload your schedule. Guests will often benefit more from a balanced programme with downtime where they can socialise naturally. Be sure to include a mix of planned sessions and breaks, particularly if you're organising a multi-day retreat - guests will need time to recharge between activities.
For example, a full-day event could begin with presentations in the morning, followed by afternoon team building activities and a more relaxed dinner in the evening. Weekend retreats may include optional wellness sessions and networking opportunities spread across several days. Remember that flexibility is important too - unpredictable weather and overrunning sessions can affect the flow of the day, so be sure to leave some breathing room between activities.
9. Clearly communicate relevant information with your team
It may seem simple, but it's a step that is often overlooked. Reach out to your team to let them know what to expect before the day. This should include practical details such as the date, location, dress code, and any physical requirements, as well as a broad overview of what the day will involve.
You should also make sure to give your team sufficient notice that the experience will be taking place. People don't want to feel like an event has been sprung on them at the last minute!
10. Gather feedback after the event
Post-event feedback can be essential for figuring out what worked well and identifying areas for improvement for future team building experiences. Asking for feedback, or sending out a quick survey, is a useful way to generate honest responses.
Looking for more inspiration? Check out our guide to the best team away days, with everything from falconry to segway racing.
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