I am absolutely thrilled to announce that I have been listed as the first event planner at The Historic Dockyard, a place which is close to home in more ways than one. Not only in terms of distance (a mere 2.4 miles from my house to be precise), but the site has played an important part in my life on several occasions.

MY CONNECTION

I spent my summer evenings in The Royal Dockyard Church, as this was the location for my school’s annual prize-giving assembly. It was here that I was unexpectedly awarded Vice Head of Gad’s Hill School, and went on to celebrate with my peers.  My headmaster lived in the on-site Admirals cottage, where I attended prefect receptions. In my final school days, this was the setting for the handing over of my cane. Years later, one of my first outings at The University of the Creative Arts was a task of drawing the contents of the third slip. Subsequently, my final major project was displayed in the exact same space years later.

THE VENUE

The venue itself bears important historical reference, not only to myself but to the local area. Formally a royal/naval dockyard, the 400 acres was one of the Royal Navy’s main facilities for several hundred years before it closed in 1984. Now the site is a museum filled to the brims with evidence of its former life.

VENUE HIRE

A new use to many of the spaces is the ability to hold events and weddings. There are so many functional spaces. From small and intimate boardrooms to vast reception spaces. Making an impact would not be hard in many of the rooms, as they well and truly do the talking. You can even hire one of the slips in the summer months for larger, more extravagant events. Fashion shows, product launches, and receptions would fit right at home. The Dockyard Hire rates are also extremely reasonable for a venue of such calibre.

WEDDINGS

If you’re looking for a wedding venue, again there are a multitude of options. From the more traditional Commissioner’s House and garden to HMS Gannet, the opportunities really are endless. I can see the most intimate celebration dinners around one table on board being a big hit, but I can also see how the bare industrial setting of the courtyard would look unreal. I’m thinking of fairy lights and velvet furniture. For a historical venue, the team are incredibly flexible and supportive of your event needs.

I cannot wait to work in this stunning venue later this year, and would encourage every person reading this article to visit The  Historic Dockyard. Even if it’s for a day out, you won’t be disappointed. Don’t forget, consider The Historic Dockyard hire for your next event.

Get in touch today to find out more.