The Shire Retreat, Grafton House Event Space & Walled Garden
Paulerspury, Towcester, NN12 7LS -
Up to
200 guests
Offers
catering
Internal Catering
allowed
About Venue
The Shire is a wellness-led events and offsite venue set within 150 acres of parkland, lakes, and woodland in the Northamptonshire countryside. Just an hour from London Euston, and equidistant from Milton Keynes and Northampton, it offers a true sense of escape without the travel.
We host company offsites, leadership retreats, workshops, strategy sessions, private dinners, and product events. Our spaces are recently restored and thoughtfully designed, ranging from a large open event room with a walled garden and terrace, to a boardroom set within a Georgian farmhouse, alongside multiple outdoor gathering spots.
What sets The Shire apart is our blend of workspace and wellness. Guests have access to our wild sauna and cold plunge, swimming lake, yoga studio, tennis court, miles of walking trails, and a nature-rich landscape designed for slowing down and reconnecting.
We work with a trusted network of wellness practitioners offering yoga, breathwork, meditation, and sound bath sessions, which can be integrated into your schedule. Catering is available through our on-site café, with menus focused on nourishing, seasonal food.
We host one group per day, ensuring privacy, space, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for somewhere that feels personal, grounded, and beautifully unique, we’d love to welcome you to The Shire.
Event Space Description:
Our event space sits in the basement of the old farmhouse, with five glass arches opening onto a walled garden with firepit, water feature and outdoor seating, seamlessly blending inside and out. It’s warm, versatile, and full of natural light, shifting effortlessly from season to season, day to night.
Hire includes exclusive use of the 260-square-metre event space and 750-square-metre sunken terrace and walled garden.
Ideal For:
Workshops
Offsites
Networking events
Private dinners
Celebrations
Layouts Available:
Banquet / Imperial
Cabaret
Open plan
Capacity:
120 seated
200 standing
Features:
260 sqm indoor event space
750 sqm private walled garden and terrace
Space for food vans or an outdoor bar
Private arrival via long driveway overlooking the lake
Parking for up to 80 cars
Strong Wi-Fi
No corkage fee
On-site catering available or external catering welcome
We can also recommend reliable local suppliers to suit your style and budget.
Capacity & Layout
Standing
up to 200
Dining
up to 100
Theatre
up to 80
Cabaret
up to 60
Food & Beverage
Catering arrangements
Catering facilities
Refreshments
Alcohol
Facilities & Amenities
Disabled access
Heating
Air conditioning
Natural light
Outdoor / Garden / Beach
Space Rules
Allowed events
Promoted/ticketed events
Cancellation policy
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your date. If cancelled 3–6 months before the event, 50% of the total event cost is payable. If cancelled less than 3 months before the event, 100% of the total event cost is payable. If we are able to rebook the date, we will refund any recovered amount (minus the deposit).
