6 best places to impress corporate clients in the Solent
Nowadays, the Solent area is a significant economic hub, with a population of more than 1.3 million people, that's home to over 40,000 companies. It's centred around the Isle of Wight, the two sizeable towns of Portsmouth and Southampton, the New Forest, the M27 corridor, and the Solent waterway.
With direct road and rail connections to London and the strategic national corridor, as well as international connections through its airport and two ports - which are located just 20 miles from the busiest shipping route in the world - the Solent is the UK's gateway to European and international markets.
With a regional gross value added (GVA) north of £30bn, it's reasonable to assume that some fairly hefty investment deals are brokered in the area. Whether that's the case with your corporate visit, or you just want to impress a client (or a prospective one), you'll want to take them to see the sights of the Solent and leave them with a favourable opinion of the place - and you by extension. Luckily that's possible at a number of venues...
Here are six places to impress your corporate clients in the Solent:
1, Freshwater Bay Golf Course - The Isle of Wight
We begin with something of a corporate classic - the golf course. Provided no one gets overly competitive, a round or two of golf may be 'a good walk spoiled' to some, but to many it's just great exercise and fun.
You'd be forgiven for assuming that a course as stunning and well maintained as Freshwater Bay is members only, but they warmly welcome visitors. Tee times are every ten minutes and green fees are more than reasonable.
As you would expect, there is a pro shop on site, so any guests needing to hire clubs or buy something they're missing can do so. And the clubhouse provides a welcome spot after you've finished throwing the game to allow your important client to beat you on the 18th hole.
2, Spitbank Fort - Portsmouth
If you're looking for somewhere to take clients that is entirely unique and unforgettable, Spitbank Fort is the jewel in the Solent's crown.
Off the coast of Portsmouth, a few miles into the Solent, Spitbank Fort is an incredible and historic sea fortress. The fort, which is now a luxurious, elite venue and hotel, once housed hundreds of troops who were responsible for securing Portsmouth's approaches. Opulently decorated bedroom suites, three bars, three restaurants, and spa facilities now greet those sailing up to the place.
A private island that may be rented for corporate events, the privacy and exclusivity that Spitbank Fort offers up is rather special indeed. There is lodging for 18 people for overnight stays (although only nine rooms) and meeting space for up to 60 people.
This place is almost guaranteed to wow your guests.
3, Restaurant 27 - Southsea
If an evening of culinary sophistication is better suited to you and your invitees, then the Solent has plenty of options. Perhaps the best is the Michelin Starred Restaurant 27, a modern French affair with a simple set menu and extensive wine list.
Head chef Kevin Bingham has many years of experience working in some of the world's finest Michelin Star-awarded restaurants, so you know you're in good hands. Not only that but with a seven course meal complete with wine flight setting you back less than £120 per person, you're not going to destroy your client entertainment budget either.
4, The Portsmouth Distillery - Portsmouth
If you've only got a few hours and know that you're delegates enjoy a G&T, then The Portsmouth Distillery is more than worthy of your consideration.
A high-end artisanal spirit manufacturer, The Portsmouth Distillery Co. was only established back in 2018, but has already built quite the local - and national - reputation. It's located in the Fort Cumberland Bastion, which dates all the way back to the 17th century. It's found on Portsea Island's southernmost point, entirely encircled by water.
Join a tour of The Portsmouth Distillery to see all of the impressive facilities and hear from a professional guide about how their delicious spirits are made. Guests who aren't that curious as to the distilling process needn't worry, entry tickets also include a full-sized cocktail of their choice after you've tried the spirits and decided which one you prefer. Then, of course, the fully licenced bar is open for you to stay and try a few more.
A fun, inexpensive and boozy afternoon out which may suit certain types of clients.
5, Sapphire Sail - Southampton
Sapphire Sail was founded in 2015 and offers affordable private sailing trips for groups of up to five people. "Champagne Sail," "Day Sail," "One Night in Cowes," or a "3-Day Solent Adventure" are the options available.
You can sail as much or as little as you like when you have a skipper and crew on board. All excursions include food and beverages and depart from Ocean Village in Southampton.
If you're entertaining particularly nautically-minded folk, they also do sailing trips during special events in The Solent such as Cowes Week and The Round The Island Race.
6, The National Motor Museum - The New Forest
A museum may seem like a fairly unusual choice for a place to take corporate clients. And, ordinarily, we might agree. But Beaulieu's world-famous museum isn't some dreary old room made up of glass boxes full of dusty old spearheads.
Anyone with even a passing interest in cars and their history won't help but be fascinated by the jaw-dropping collection of hundreds of immaculate classic cars on display.
The National Motor Museum is one of the south's top tourist attractions and is a Mecca for petrolheads. It's also a great visit of pop culture junkies too, with it's spectacular array of cars from TV and film history. Popular recent exhibitions include Bond in Motion (showcasing all of 007's famous rides) and World of Top Gear.
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