Devon might be best known for its dramatic coastlines, countryside charm, and cream teas, but beneath the postcard-perfect image is a growing portfolio of venues that are winning over corporate event organisers. From large-scale conferences to executive retreats, here are ten Devon venues proving the county is more than just a holiday hotspot.
1. Sandy Park, Exeter
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
A purpose-built venue next to Exeter Chiefs’ rugby stadium, Sandy Park is Devon’s largest dedicated conference facility. With capacity for 400 delegates, cutting-edge AV, breakout suites, and easy access from the M5 and Exeter Airport, it’s ideal for national and international conferences. It’s also set to host matches for the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup, adding major-event credibility.
2. Exeter Racecourse Conference Centre
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
Located high above the Haldon Hills, this racecourse offers more than just sporting drama. It transforms into a professional event space with 17 flexible rooms, free parking, and stunning views, perfect for AGMs, exhibitions, and networking days. It’s a rare chance to combine business with an inspiring setting.
3. Future Inn, Plymouth
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
With eight dedicated meeting rooms, modern facilities, and accommodation on site, Future Inn is ideal for training sessions, corporate meetings, and multi-day events. Its location, just minutes from Plymouth city centre, makes it especially useful for companies seeking urban accessibility and professional polish without big-city rates.
4. Dartington Hall, Totnes
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
A 14th-century estate set within 1,200 acres of South Devon greenery, Dartington Hall offers a unique blend of historic ambience and modern conference amenities. It’s a dream venue for leadership retreats, academic conferences, and cultural incentives. Delegates can dine in a medieval hall, sleep on site, and walk through ancient gardens, all in one place.
5. Hembury Court, near Honiton
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
Ideal for exclusive-use business retreats or team bonding experiences, Hembury Court is a converted barn complex on a working organic farm. It accommodates up to 17 people in luxury lodges and offers complete privacy. For small leadership teams seeking inspiration (and perhaps a digital detox), it’s hard to beat.
6. Totnes Guildhall
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
Dating back to the 16th century, this historic building in the heart of Totnes offers a unique setting for smaller meetings, cultural forums, and heritage-linked programming. Its intimate, wood-panelled rooms evoke gravitas and tradition, ideal for organisations seeking to impress with character and history.
7. Plympton Guildhall
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
This Grade II* listed neoclassical venue in the Plymouth suburbs boasts a main hall with capacity for around 300 attendees. With its high ceilings and Georgian charm, it suits award evenings, exhibitions, and civic events looking to mix formality with flair.
8. Axminster Guildhall
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
Located in a bustling market town near the Dorset border, this classical community venue offers mid-sized facilities for workshops, conferences, and public-facing exhibitions. It’s ideal for regional MICE events aiming to tap into local networks or creative industries.
9. Holne Park House, Ashburton
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
Set within the River Dart Country Park, this Victorian mansion is perfect for residential conferences, incentives, and nature-inspired retreats. Event organisers can combine traditional meeting formats with outdoor activities like high ropes, kayaking, and team-building challenges, ideal for boosting engagement and wellbeing.
10. The Duke of Cornwall Hotel, Plymouth
Why it’s MICE-worthy:
A landmark Victorian hotel just minutes from Plymouth Hoe, The Duke of Cornwall offers elegant boardrooms and banqueting halls for up to 300 guests. With in-house catering, overnight accommodation, and easy transport links, it’s perfect for city-centre events with a heritage twist.
Why Devon makes sense for MICE
Connectivity: Easy access via the M5, direct rail from London and Birmingham, and Exeter Airport.
Diverse venues: From rural retreats to large conference centres and coastal hotels.
Team-building potential: Dartmoor, beaches, rivers, and countryside offer unique off-agenda experiences.
Cost-effective: Lower venue and accommodation costs compared to London or the South East.
Inspiring backdrops: A breath of fresh air for delegates tired of concrete convention centres.