A team building retreat bringing together colleagues from the UK and Canada was a triumph at North Yorkshire venue, Swinton Park.
Background
Epitopea, a transatlantic cancer immunotherapeutic company, was seeking a UK destination to host a company-wide event that would be attended by employees from both Canadian and UK offices to inspire collaboration and team building.
After an extensive search conducted by castle expert Celtic Castles Ltd., the client chose to use the Swinton Park Hotel in North Yorkshire, swayed by the unique setting, rich history and heritage, unrivalled range of activities available on-site, and the strong sustainability principles that underpin the estate’s ethos.
The event
Participative team building activities were a key part of the event and Swinton Estate’s activities partner, Live For Today, was on hand to deliver a variety of activities, from axe-throwing to archery and a Cryptic Chase orienteering challenge making the most of the 200-acre Parkland and Gardens.
In addition, the group enjoyed a private falconry display at the Swinton Birds of Prey Centre, clay pigeon shooting with shooting experts E.J. Churchill, and participated in a mixology demonstration in the stunning Billiards Room in the hotel. There was also plenty of opportunity for relaxation, either enjoying the beautiful North Yorkshire countryside surrounding the hotel or at the Swinton Country Club with its extensive array of wellness experiences and spa treatments.
The group experienced estate-to-plate dining in the hotel’s restaurants during their stay, including afternoon tea in the Drawing Room, fine dining at Samuel’s Restaurant, and private dining in the Arnagill Room, one of the Estate’s several private dining and events spaces – catered by the Terrace Restaurant and Bar.
At the start of their stay, the delegates had an informal dinner at the Deer House enjoying a barbeque in the summer sunshine with far reaching views of the Deer Park and the castle. On the final evening, the group celebrated with their gala farewell dinner, when the hotel’s head chef presented a three-course seasonal dinner, using some of the best produce from across the estate in the elegant setting of the library, Swinton Park Hotel’s principal function room.
On departure, guests were treated to a goodie bag to remember their time at the Swinton Estate.
Feedback
Event organiser, Natalie Laurence, HBa, Senior Executive Administrator at Epitopea, said the Swinton team demonstrated professionalism, creativity, and an unmatched attention to detail. The entire planning process was seamless, and during the event, every staff member – from the front desk to the culinary team – embodied grace, warmth, and precision. Nothing was ever too much trouble; everything felt effortless.
The retreat was a resounding success. Guests were in awe of the Deer House dinner, which felt like dining in a fairytale. The most talked-about activities included falconry, an invigorating swim in the cold lake, and the thrilling scavenger hunt.