Venues in London
Employee appreciation can sometimes feel like screaming into the void. Someone gives you a shoutout on Slack for doing a good job, or maybe you were handed a branded jumper when you first started. Perhaps you get a couple of perks here and there. And while all of that is great, people are looking for something tangible, not transactional.
That’s where events come in. They play a different role in employee appreciation and engagement.
Recognition vs. Appreciation
Recognition is important. A lot of people perform better with positive reinforcement. They thrive when someone takes notice of how well they’re doing.
But recognition is often individual and performance-based, while appreciation is collective. It’s about belonging.
Events sit in the appreciation category because they create shared memories, not just individual rewards. Employee appreciation isn’t just about highlighting what one person is doing well. It’s about reinforcing the culture of the entire company.
Why Experiences Land Differently
Events drive real appreciation because they aren’t short-lived. A Slack message might feel good in the moment, but most people will forget it after a few days.
An event becomes something teams reference for months or even years. It becomes a shared story.
Away days, retreats, summer or Christmas parties, or smaller curated experiences all signal investment. When a company takes the time to plan something like this, they’re showing they care about the people and the culture. They’re not just talking about values, they’re demonstrating them.
Events also offer a break from the boringness of day-to-day work. They create space to step away from admin and deadlines and focus on connection instead. In-person events get people out from behind their screens, which is crucial for hybrid teams. You’ll even see everyone come away from the event feeling more motivated and ready to work hard.
Venues That Work Well for Employee Appreciation Events
Morston Hall, North Norfolk
For teams looking to step away from the everyday, Morston Hall offers a Michelin-starred retreat just moments from the North Norfolk coast. With 13 bedrooms, space for up to 60 guests, and the option of tasting menus or hands-on cooking masterclasses, it’s an ideal setting for smaller, thoughtful retreats that prioritise connection over scale.
The Conduit, London
For teams wanting an away day with purpose, The Conduit offers a central London setting built around connection and impact. With a range of flexible spaces including the Pergola rooftop, Nobel Lounge, The Forum and Ubuntu Lounge, it’s well suited to teams who want structured discussion during the day and a more relaxed atmosphere as things wind down.
Town Hall Spaces, King’s Cross
For larger moments of recognition such as company awards or milestone celebrations, Town Hall Spaces offers scale without losing impact. With three distinct venues including the Grade II listed Vision Hall and contemporary Inner Space, it’s a setting that feels elevated and intentional, supported by standout catering and production that ensures the experience matches the occasion.
The Risk of Performative Appreciation
Appreciation can easily turn into something that feels forced. Planning something just to tick a box or pushing mandatory “fun” never lands well.
Instead, involve your team. Send a survey. Ask what they’d actually enjoy. Plan inclusive experiences, not just events centred around alcohol. Be intentional. Make it feel like it was designed for your team, not copied from a trend.
What Meaningful Appreciation Looks Like in 2026
If you’re planning events as part of your appreciation strategy, lean into smaller, more thoughtful gatherings. Make sure there’s a clear purpose behind them.
And importantly, ensure leadership is present and genuinely engaging with the team. That’s where appreciation becomes visible.
Planning something for your team? Let us help you find a venue.
