Downing College, University of Cambridge
Downing is a College of the University of Cambridge which was founded in 1800 through a bequest made by Sir George Downing.
Set in 20 acres of stunning lawns and trees yet within the historic centre of Cambridge, Downing College is located in elegant and stylish buildings which originate in the 19thcentury. It’s a tranquil setting for conferences and events, ranging from residential conferences and one-day meetings to large and small dining events.
As an academic venue, Downing College offers a conducive environment for learning, with The Howard Theatre providing one of several facilities for formal presentations with break-out rooms close by.
The historical listed buildings deliver the quintessential Cambridge College experience, as well as housing an excellent range of modern conference and function facilities with state-of-the-art meetings technology and technical support on hand throughout the event.
Residential conferences can benefit from the 200 on-site bedrooms, 160 of which are ensuite and located close to the main meeting facilities and communal areas.
For private conference dinners, there are a number of options within Downing College from the formal Hall for larger groups to the more intimate setting of the West Lodge and Maitland Room for smaller parties. Whichever option, the Executive Head Chef and his team provide high-quality cuisine using fresh, seasonal and where possible, locally-sourced produce.
The Conference team offers a bespoke service to clients, working with them from the initial enquiry stage to the delivery of the event on the day. In addition to advising on the formal sessions, they can also add value to their event making it as attractive as possible for delegates with suggestions for the social aspects of the conference, perhaps a dinner in Downing College’s formal Hall, punting on the River Cam or arranging a Blue Guide walking tour of Cambridge.
Downing College scores highly on accessibility too. It is easy for delegates travelling from different parts of the UK, only three quarters of a mile from the railway station and five minutes’ walk from Drummer Street bus station.
