The Most Magnificent Palace of Amusement In The World.

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1 SINCE 1878

2 The Most Magnificent Palace of Amusement In The World. - Professor Vanessa Toulmin Church St Blackpool Lancashire FY1 1HW Tel: events@wintergardensblackpool.co.uk

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4 Winter Gardens. A Grand and Visionary Complex. The Winter Gardens is unique. A Grade II* listed building offering historic grandeur combined with the facility and technology of modern event planning supported by an experienced management team. For conferences, exhibitions, shows, concerts, special events or banquets - for 10 to 10,000, the Winter Gardens in Blackpool remains Britain s most spectacular choice of venue. The Winter Gardens has entertained hordes of crowds in Blackpool in its collection of theatres, ballrooms, exhibition halls and public spaces. Since opening in 1878, the venue s aspirations have continued to mirror the development of Blackpool as a friendly seaside resort. As the town grew in popularity throughout the century, the venue s wide range of entertainment has developed with it. The venue has been used for a diverse range of leisure and business purposes and has evolved through an on-going development and building programme to meet today s customer needs. The venue buzzes all year round with top West End Shows, major special interest events, product launches, conferences, and the world famous Dance Festival, to name but a few. The Winter Gardens is a spectacular meeting place in a perfect location with the means to cater for more than 10,000 people! It provides everything anyone could ever need for conferences, seminars, meetings, socials, banquets and dinnerdances. You will also find a variety of bars and light food restaurants open day and night throughout the complex. Our reputation is based on our unique flexibility, tradition and experience. We encourage clients to visit the venue in person at the earliest opportunity. The true potential of the Winter Gardens can only be judged at first hand.

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6 ONE OF THE LARGEST THEATRES IN THE UK HAS WELCOMED THE BIGGEST STARS OF ENTERTAINMENT FOR OVER 100 YEARS INCLUDING TWO ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCES

7 The Winter Gardens has long been established as one of the UK s premier venues for staging theatre shows, concerts and events. With over 1 million people passing through its doors annually, it s not surprising to discover that some of the biggest names from the world of show business and the music industry appear on a regular basis. Within the Winter Gardens 4.9 acres is one of Britain s largest theatres, the Opera House. Boasting a seating capacity of almost 3,000 and a stage measuring 30 x 15 metres. It is equipped with all the facilities expected of a modern theatre and a team of professional technicians experienced in the staging of major West End Shows. The Opera House is the UK s largest purpose built theatre, designed in a modernist style with a sweepingly curved proscenium. Hollywood stars such as Frank Sinatra, Judy Garland and Bob Hope have all graced the Opera House stage. More recently, stars including Peter Kay, One Direction, Bob Dylan and Little Mix have all performed to sell out audiences. Smash-hit shows attracted by the Opera House s immense capacity, perfect location and unequalled reputation have included top West End productions such as Joseph, Grease, Cats and Mamma Mia! The Opera House. A perfect view of the wonder stage ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE LEFT: BOB DYLAN RIGHT: THE QUEEN MEETS PETER KAY THE FOYER BAR The newly refurbished room is another example of the high standard in all the halls and rooms in the Winter Gardens. The lounge can be used as a self-contained unit, or it can be used as a syndicate, committee or administration space for larger events in the main theatre. CINEMA SCREEN A brand new, state-of-theart digital cinema screen - believed to be the biggest in the North West - and a brand new surround sound system have been specially installed in the Opera House. This incredible project brings cinema back to the Winter Gardens for the first time in almost 40 years.

8 Empress Ballroom. The jewel in the Winter Gardens crown. The Empress Ballroom, with a capacity of over 3,200 is without a doubt a breathtaking environment for any event. The Empress Ballroom has hosted everything from political party conferences to pop concerts - its architectural splendour, vast capacity and unrivalled flexibility makes it extremely popular with regional, national and international event organisers alike. Whatever your particular need, the power of the Ballroom s WOW factor cannot be underestimated. The majestic Empress Ballroom truly is the jewel in the Winter Gardens crown. The Empress Ballroom has played host to many top acts, from Jazz greats to huge rock acts such as Paul Weller, Status Quo, Arcade Fire and The Stone Roses. Performances also range from top solo vocalists to the UK s favourite boy and girl bands, the Empress Ballroom achieves capacity audiences all year round. It is ideally suited to the rock and pop market with the added appeal of dancing with full food and beverage facilities available throughout the concert. Concert audiences of up to 3,250 can be comfortably accommodated in this magnificent venue.

9 A TRULY MAGNIFICENT ROOM AVAILABLE FOR CONFERENCES, AWARDS, SEMINARS, SPORTING EVENTS, CONCERTS AND MORE.

10 Royal Variety Performance The first Royal Variety Performance to be held outside London was staged at the Opera House in In 2009 the Royal Variety Performance was again staged at the theatre. HOME TO THE WORLD S MOST PRESTIGIOUS DANCE FESTIVAL SINCE 1920 THE FAB FOUR PERFORMED AT THE OPERA HOUSE TWICE WITHIN THE SAME MONTH IN THE SUMMER OF ALSO ON THE BILL WERE THE HIGH NUMBERS, WHO WERE SHORTLY TO RENAME THEMSELVES THE WHO, AND THE KINKS. EVERY BRITISH PRIME MINISTER SINCE SIR WINSTON CHURCHILL HAS ADDRESSED AN AUDIENCE AT THE VENUE. BLACKPOOL S WINTER GARDENS FIRST OPENED TO THE PUBLIC ON 11TH JULY 1878 THE EMPRESS BALLROOM HAS BEEN USED AS A CONFERENCE VENUE FOR MANY YEARS BY THE LABOUR PARTY, CONSERVATIVE PARTY AND LIBERAL DEMOCRATS. Early in 1918, the Admiralty had requisitioned the Empress Ballroom to assemble gas envelopes for the R.33 airship. During the Second World War, the Winter Gardens was used for RAF training purposes by day and for entertainment in the evening.

11 OVER ONE MILLION PEOPLE VISIT THE WINTER GARDENS EACH INAUGURATED IN 1878, THE WINTER GARDENS COST 100K TO BUILD WHICH IN TODAY S MONEY IS OVER 10 MILLION YEAR THE EMPRESS BALLROOM FIRST OPENED IN 1896 Never let it be said Frank Sinatra was short on confidence. He announced his ability to run for offce in Blackpool during his first appearance at the Opera House back in July, YOU KNOW, I COULD BE MAYOR OF THIS TOWN! ONLY VENUE IN THE WORLD WITH TWO WORKING WURLITZER ORGANS NOT ALWAYS AN EXHIBITION SPACE OLYMPIA WAS ONCE THE SITE OF A GIANT FERRIS WHEEL AS BIG AS THE LONDON EYE

12 The Arena. A venue under the stars. Adjacent to the magnificent Empress Ballroom, the Arena was originally named the Indian Lounge, due to its beautiful Raj-inspired interior design. The room survived in this state for 68 years until, in 1964, the faded interior was replaced by the Planet Room - a large lounge bar with a cabaret stage. In the late 1980s the Planet Room was revamped in a Roman style to become the present Arena. The Arena can be utilised on its own or in conjunction with the adjacent Empress Ballroom. The room s dramatic use of light creates an almost theatrical atmosphere for meetings, presentations, themed events, banquets, cabaret style shows and exhibitions.

13 Spanish Hall and Windsor Bar. Created in the 1930s by Andrew Mazzei, a famous film set designer of the time. The spectacular Spanish Hall, lavishly themed with its three-dimensional frieze representing a Spanish village, provides a magical backdrop for any grand occasion, from a banquet to a wedding reception. Beer festivals, concerts and corporate functions have all enjoyed great success in the Spanish Hall s unique charismatic environment. Retaining many of its original custom-made fittings, this spectacular art deco venue is entirely self-contained with its own adjacent bar. The Windsor Bar is ideal for a variety of private functions, available with the adjacent Spanish Hall or on its own. THE WINDSOR BAR LEADING OFF THE SPANISH HALL

14 Step back in time. Baronial Hall. THIS STUNNING ROOM CAN BE USED FOR MEETINGS OR AS AN ANTEROOM FOR EVENTS IN THE BARONIAL AND SPANISH HALLS This medieval hall, designed in the guise of an antique castle, offers a step back in time to the eve of the first millennium. With heraldic fittings and furnishings, heavy oak panelling and authentic medieval detailing, the Baronial Hall offers a distinctly different atmosphere for meetings and a unique dining experience. THE PERFECT FAIRYTALE SETTING FOR A WEDDING

15 Renaissance Room. Created with grandeur and glamour. The exquisite, periodstyle hall was created with grandeur and glamour in mind in 1931 and built an enviable reputation as a high-class restaurant and cocktail bar. Benefiting from plenty of natural light, the stunning Renaissance Room is extremely versatile and particularly suited to special occasions for up to 150 guests. With grand arched doorways and enchanting cherubs adorning the walls, this opulent venue has the ability to infuse any meeting or private function with charm and elegance.

16 Pavilion & Horseshoe. An exquisite surprise. PAVILION THEATRE STAGE. PAVILION THEATRE FROM THE STAGE, c Leading off the Floral Hall the Winter Gardens reveals yet another exquisite surprise: a graceful semi-circular promenade known as the Horseshoe. At its centre is the Pavilion, a supreme example of Victorian stage architecture now converted for conference, concert, banqueting or dinner-dance. Alternatively, the partitions dividing the Pavilion from the Horseshoe may be folded back to create a spacious, self-contained exhibition area. The beautiful Pavilion Theatre accommodates up to 500 seated guests and provides one of Blackpool s more intimate theatrical experiences and can form a distinctly different venue for a conference or meeting.

17 THE NEWLY REFURBISHED DERHAM LOUNGE Renewed elegance. Derham Lounge. The room takes its name from John C. Derham, the Tower Company s resident architect, who designed the Olympia exhibition hall and re-modelled other areas of the Winter Gardens. The room had been created as a Restaurant and Cafe in 1897, but became the Olympia Bar in From the 1980s until more recently, it was used for a variety of functions including the Ram Jam Inn, Apple Annie s and most recently a collectables outlet, before being reclaimed in 2013 and restored to its former beauty. Most of the 1930s plasterwork has survived and has been restored. The restoration of this room saw it being stripped back to its shell and the Renaissance glitz and glamour renewed. The room can now be used for a variety of events, either as a standalone room using the Carter Street entrance or as an extension to the larger complex.

18 OLYMPIA EXHIBITION CENTRE Olympia Exhibition Centre. WITH 2,600 SQUARE METRES OF SPACE, OLYMPIA IS BLACKPOOL S LARGEST INDOOR EXHIBITION SPACE The Winter Gardens offers many exciting opportunities for exhibition organisers, none more so than the Olympia Exhibition Centre. Home to many of the North s major trade shows, it is easy to understand why. With 2,600 square metres of space and direct links to the Ballroom, Arena, Horseshoe and Pavilion, the Olympia can be used as a totally self-contained venue or alongside other facilities - all under one roof. The Olympia offers easy access for vehicles and equipment, with ample parking for visitors and exhibitors immediately adjacent to the Winter Gardens. The impressively spacious Olympia features high ceilings, natural light and easy accessibility, with three points of exterior entry for vehicles and equipment.

19 Cafes and Bars. THE MAZZEI CAFE The tradition of outstanding hospitality associated with the Winter Gardens as a famous Blackpool visitor attraction has never been more alive than today, with a choice of cafes and bars offering something to suit all tastes. The Mazzei Cafe, situated off the Floral Hall and opposite The Empress Grill Room offers a relaxed atmosphere. Serving light lunches, afternoon tea and snacks including paninis, homemade cakes and a selection of sandwiches. The Empress Grill Room within the Winter Gardens offers the choice of fine cuisine with flexible catering that can be tailored to your requirements. The contemporary interior of the restaurant contrasts delightfully with the dramatic surroundings of the building. There are also a number of bars in the Winter Gardens complex. The Windsor Bar which can be used alone or with the adjacent Spanish Hall. The Galleon Bar which opened in 1931 and was modelled on the lines of the offcers quarters of one of the Spanish armada s galleons. The Gillows Bar leads off the Galleon Bar and is a perfect venue for intimate performances and as a break room during large conferences. Each of these wondrous spaces can be used individually or as rooms to facilaite a larger event for networking, relaxing or small meetings. Opened in 2015 The New Theatre Bar with Gourmet Burger restaurant available for private hire offers an intimate and stylish retreat perfect for relaxing, drinking and dining all day long and into the night. THE EMPRESS GRILL ROOM THE THEATRE BAR

20 ANDRÉ RIEU BLACKPOOL & FYLDE COLLEGE FASHION SHOW ROYAL VARIETY PERFORMANCE

21 Accommodation Booking Service. Delegates are often not familiar with the resort so to ensure they make the correct choices VisitBlackpool can offer you our online accommodation booking service. Their online booking service includes arranging allocations at the hotels of your choice, hosting site visits, negotiating rates and handling individual visitor requests. Their service to you can include an online welcome page from you to your delegates, with a brief outline of what s happening during your stay in resort. They can provide room lists for each hotel, manage and monitor bookings, ensuring you have a full and complete picture of how many delegates have booked and where they are staying. You are able to book direct with the accommodation provider of your choice and the team at VisitBlackpool can assist with amends, cancellations or individuals requests all from one click or call. To book or enquire about venues or accommodation please contact: E: conferences@visitblackpool.com T: From A to B and everything in-between. Whatever time you choose to arrive there will be plenty of transport to assist. If you are arriving in large numbers we can arrange for dedicated bus or coach transport from the station to any of our venues or hotels. Alternatively, a short walk to the promenade offers the option of using the new tramway service. This is the perfect way to commute along Blackpool s promenade; whether your accommodation is North or South the new style Bombardier trams will make sure everybody arrives stress and hassle free. The promenade route has been totally transformed in recent years; with over 100m worth of investment the tramway has been a key part of Blackpool promenade s regeneration plan. The team at VisitBlackpool can negotiate transport tickets for your visitors, making sure all they have to think about is getting on and getting off! If the modern style isn t your preference and you d prefer an older style heritage tram we can help sort that for you. Perhaps you d like to take your guests on a private hire heritage tram on the way to a dinner venue. This would be the ideal way to impress your guests and at the same time enjoy reception drinks and canapés on route, or alternatively if it s a more relaxed evening take a tram ride and at the same time treat your delegates to a traditional seaside supper of fish and chips. Blackpool Transport has recently welcomed a fleet of new Mercedes Citaro buses; all are 12 metre 1 door full low floor throughout with the latest fuel and energy effcient Euro 6 engines. Trimmed in E Leather with wood effect flooring and free WiFi and mobile charging points for customers, these new buses will offer a modern alternative to travel around Blackpool. It is really easy to get around in Blackpool whether you re travelling from the train station to your hotel or from the hotel to the conference venue.

22 Arriving at your Destination COMEDY CARPET THE BLACKPOOL TOWER BANK HEY ST PROMENADE WE ST ST MARKET ST NORTH PIER TALBOT SQ THE STRAND Whatever your mode of transport into Blackpool you can be sure the journey will be made as easy as possible. The new direct train routes from many destinations across the UK can half your usual travel time, or if you want to bring your car Blackpool s easy access links to the M6 motorway and the national motorway network can make your arrival and departure hassle free! L RD ALBERT RD NATION ST CHARNLEY RD ALBERT RD HOUNDS HILL HOUNDSHILL SHOPPING CENTRE ADELAIDE ST VICTORIA ST GRAND THEATRE CORONATION ST CHURCH ST WINTER GARDENS BLACKPOOL LEOPOLD GROVE ALFRED ST WEST STREET MULTI CORPORATION ST BACK CHURCH ST BIRLEY ST CHEAPSIDE CLIFTON ST ABINGD ON ST KING ST TALBOT RD EDWARD ST DEANSGATE TOPPING ST EAST TOPPING STREET DEANSGATE QUEEN ST ABINGD TALB TALBO MULT OKSON ST Travelling by Car Blackpool remains easily accessible by car, the M6 motorway that runs directly from the M1 links Blackpool via the M55 to the main motorway network. Driving into Blackpool couldn t be easier follow the M55 right into the heart of the town centre and the resort s largest car park. The car parks offer a safe and welcoming place to park while in Blackpool, for further information and for details of how you can pre-book your parking space visit the website below. For more information: T: Travelling by Train Blackpool is very pleased to be able to announce the direct London to Blackpool Virgin train service, which departs daily from London Euston. The resort is also connected through the train network to many other destinations. Superfast Virgin Pendolino trains to Preston connect with the local shuttle service into Blackpool. For more information and a full timetable: T: T: Travelling by Coach Modern coaches are superbly equipped and comfortable, offering a high quality, value for money way of getting to your favourite beach location. National Express and other scheduled coach operators travel to and from the resort all year round. For more information: T: Travelling by Sea Blackpool is within easy reach of a number of ferry ports covering crossings from Northern and Southern Ireland and the Isle of Man. For a full list of ferry crossings and more information:

23 The Winter Gardens Blackpool has to be seen to be believed.

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