LATEST NEWS
NEWS & UPDATES
FROM DOWNING
Enjoy events at Downing in the sunshine this summer!
As British Summertime has started, the Downing Events Team are hopeful of some glorious weather here in Cambridge! Our West Lodge Gardens and Fellows' Gardens are a wonderfully open green space, ideal for Summer BBQ’s and Garden Parties. Book your event at Downing and your guests can enjoy the excellent wines, exquisite canapes and our latest BBQ menu all whilst relaxing in vibrant & beautiful surroundings at the College.
Looking for conference venue?
Our beautiful, unique Howard Theatre is the perfect venue for groups up to 150 guests. Our knowledgeable onsite AV team will provide support throughout the day offering a wide variety of services including filming, recording and streaming. The ground floor Grace Howard Room is the ideal room for delegates to arrive for registration and works very well for refreshments and lunches. French windows lead out onto the West Lodge gardens for some air during breaks and lunch. Why not finish the event with a drinks reception or a gala dinner in one of our beautiful private dining rooms.
Hoping to get married in 2025?
There's still time to book your dream wedding for summer 2025! If you are a Downing member or College Alumni we still have a couple of dates left this summer. With its classical architecture and beautiful lawns, Downing College makes a stunning wedding venue. Visit our Wedding page to find out more and contact our Wedding Coordinator.
Meet Grace, our newest team member!
My name is Grace, and I am the new Conference and Events Coordinator here at Downing. I am the current face and writer behind the Newsletter, and am looking forward to keeping you up to date with ‘all things Downing’. I am a 2023 Criminology Graduate from the University of Lincoln, where my passion for Events Planning started from my role of Social Secretary & Ladies Captain for my University Hockey Team.
At the weekends I enjoy countryside walks with my two dogs (cocker spaniel & a dachshund) and spending quality time with family and friends. I have thoroughly enjoyed working here so far, Downing has the most wonderful community and I feel extremely privileged to work here. I look forward to working with and meeting our clients and members of Downing College!
My name is Grace, and I am the new Conference & Events Coordinator at Downing College. I am the current face and writer behind the client newsletter, and am looking forward to keeping our members up to date with ‘all things Downing’. I am a 2023 Criminology Graduate from the University of Lincoln, where my passion for Events Planning started from my role of Social Secretary & Ladies Captain for my University Hockey Team. At the weekends I take pleasure in countryside walks with my two dogs (cocker spaniel and a dachshund) and spending quality time with family and friends. I have thoroughly enjoyed working here so far, Downing has the most wonderful community and I feel extremely privileged to work here. I look forward to working with and meeting our clients and members of Downing College.
Enjoy the Downing gardens this summer!
As British Summertime has officially commenced, the Downing events team are hopeful of some glorious weather in Cambridge. Our West Lodge Gardens and Fellows' Gardens provide wonderfully open green space, ideal for BBQs and garden parties, and you are welcome to walk on the grass! Book your summer event at Downing and your guests can enjoy excellent wines, exquisite canapes and our latest BBQ menu all whilst relaxing in Downing's gardens.
Looking for Group Accommodation in Cambridge?
Downing College is a fantastic residential conference and event venue, but did you know you can book our bedrooms for a group or individually? We have 180 ensuite bedrooms onsite, many with views of our grounds and gardens. The College is located in the centre of Cambridge just 12 minutes walk from the railway station perfect for a visit for work or pleasure to the City. Find out more by visiting our Accommodation page.
Book your Special Gala Dinner at Downing
From an intimate dinner for 30 guests in the West Lodge and Maitland rooms, to a dinner for up to 150 in the spectacular College Hall, business or pleasure, Downing has something for every occasion.
White linen, candelabras, exquisite menus and excellent wines, classical architecture - the Cambridge College Experience. Our teams will create an experience to remember. Visit our Private Dining page for more information and contact our team to discuss your enquiry.
Christmas at Downing College
Looking for a College venue for your Christmas party? Downing provides the perfect festive backdrop to your event, private dinner for up to 36 in the West Lodge and Maitland room, or under the 14ft Christmas tree in the College Hall. After a 4 course dinner, why not carry on the party in the Howard Building with a separate bar and lounge, and a disco or band upstairs in the Assembly Room. Accommodation is also available for your guests if they want to avoid queuing for a taxi!
Our Onsite AV Team Supporting Your Conference
Our dedicated and experienced in-house Technology Support Team work with our Event Planning Team throughout the coordination stages. Together, they ensure that the room setups and all requirements are understood and correct, and provide AV support on the day allowing speakers and client event organisers to relax and focus. The Technology Support Team also provide face-to-face contact, ensuring that everything is ready on the day and quickly responding to any last minute requests, providing reassurance for both regular and new clients. Whether you need help with a projector, presentation, filming or streaming, our team will be by your side.