Square Mile Guides - Corporate Hospitality - 2011

Corporate Hospitality

In association with

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EDITOR’SWORD

SPREAD BETTING GUIDE

© Square Up Media Limited 2011. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. All information contained in this magazine is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Square Up Media cannot accept responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. If you submit unsolicited material to us, you automatically grant Square Up Media a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in all editions of the magazine. All material is sent at your own risk and although every care is taken, neither Square Up Media nor its employees, agents or subcontractors shall be held liable resulting for loss or damage. Square Up Media endeavours to respect the intellectual property of the owners of copyrighted material reproduced herein. If you identify yourself as the copyright holder of material we have wrongly attributed, please contact the office.

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BY THE TIME you’ve received this year’s Corporate Hospitality guide, we’ll be fully into the blood and guts of the Rugby World Cup. The wheat will have been well and truly separated from the chaff, and the plucky South Sea islanders, the violent but broadly ineffective eastern Europeans and the predictably rubbish Scots will all be on their own as the big boys – and perennial pantomime villains England – take centre stage.

And then, in a fl ash, it will be over and all we’ll be left with is a large, egg-shaped vacuum in our otherwise humdrum lives. Until, that is, the RBS Six Nations comes along in February and, free of those nasty southern hemisphere bullies, four nations can dream again (I’ll let you guess who we’ve left out). That’s why we’ve tracked down the fi nest in corporate hospitality options for eachof the host cities: where to stay, what to do and the best ways to experience all the excitement in style.

On the off-chance that you’re not a rugby fan (or a sports fan full-stop), don’t fear – there’s plenty more to corporate entertainment than watching the game, eating too much food and falling over drunk in front of your boss or (worse still) client. That’s why you’ll fi nd in this guide everything from how to turn an O2 event into a showstopper (not literally) to a three-hour course that’ll make everyone you know think you’re a Michelin-starred chef. We also tackle the high seas in one of the world’s fastest yacht racing series and discover how you can train with a GB sporting icon with 2012 looming on the horizon.

And, if all else fails, take your clients to the rugby because, as they say, where there’s muck, there’s brass...

06 . YOU GIFT ME UP...If you want to leave a good impression, don’t just rely on luck – corporate gifts help too

11 . TASMANIAN DEVILF1 star Mark Webber swaps being tormented by Seb Vettel for an adventure in Tasmania

12 . A SPORTING CHANCEShoot for the stars with Selena Masson’s pick of the top entertainment in country pursuits

18 . SIX OF THE BESTWe show you how to do the RBS 6 Nationsin style, no matter where you go to watch it

26 . IN THE EXTREMENovice sailor Matthew Arthur joins the crew of a super fast Extreme 40 catamaran at Cowes

33 . CLIPPER ROUND THE HEADTake your team sailing on a Clipper racing yacht, built to circumnavigate the world

36 . DOME IS WHERE THE ART ISEugene Costello supersizes the O2 experience, and his date still manages to run away...

43 . LORD OF THE (FIVE) RINGSCapitalise on 2012 fever by taking tips on the track and in the water from sporting legends

47 . CATERING FOR ALL TASTESZafferano’s baroque Christmas party in the City is a sure-fi re festive hospitality winner

48 . COOKING UP A STORMHow to pass yourself off as the next Rick Stein

51 . DIRECTORYAll your hospitality contacts in a handy guide

64 . CALENDARA diary of the sporting top events for 2011 and 2012, from the Six Nations to the Olympics

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFMartin Deeson

SQUARE MILE EDITORMark Hedley

HEAD OF DIGITALMike Gluckman

COMMERCIAL DIRECTORLauren Neale

HEAD OF MARKETING & PRLoren Penney

MARKETING & EVENTSAmelie Shepherd

DRINKS & VENUESAlex Watson, Danielle Kent

PRINT ADVERTISING Michael Berrett, Nicholas Gray, Sophie Green, Simon Orchard, William Preston, Will Taylor

ACCOUNTSSteve Cole, Laura Otabor

CEOTim Slee

CHAIRMANTom Kelly OBE

The voice of The c iTysquaremileGUIDES EDITORJon Hawkins

ART DIRECTORMatthew Lewis-Hasteley

DESIGNERLee Southey

SUB EDITOR Brendan Fitzgerald

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTMatt Huckle

CONTRIBUTORSMatthew Arthur, Eugene Costello, Neil Davey, Selena Masson, Amelie Shepherd

PRINTINGColourfast Europe

SQUAREMILE 4squaremile.com

EDITOR'S WORD

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MONTBLANC PLATINUM 3 CUFF LINKS, £205 Embossed with the Montblanc emblem, these are at the peak of the gifting game.montblanccorporategift.co.uk

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GUIDE CORPORATE GIFTS

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FUEL PROOFNo more smoke, oil and noise – new electric karts are silent, carbon-neutral and hit 40mph

Electric cars have a reputation of being a bit, well, cack. They simply lack the ‘oomph’ of a petrol vehicle. However, TeamSport is working hard to dispel this notion. It has just opened Britain’s fi rst carbon-neutral go-kart venue near Tower Bridge stocked exclusively with electric karts. They each cost £6,000 and are capable of reaching 40mph, providing frighteningly quick acceleration along the way. They actually perform much better than their petrol counterparts with the added bonus of being practically silent. So not only will you have a great time on the two-storey, 750m long track, you won’t have to worry about rising petrol prices either. ■0844 998 0000; team-sport.co.uk


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TeamSport are the No.1 indoor karting company with 11 exciting tracks across 9 locations throughout the UK. Our flagship location at London Tower Bridge offers impressive interiors and provides a unique location to meet and do business. Our staff are on hand to facilitate your I.T. connectivity needs and deliver you an attentive level of service for refreshments, food and fun - because when your business is finished the unrivalled experience of our multi levelled karting tracks with the fastest indoor karts around begins. Are you ready to go?

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run like the devilFeeling charitable? Put yourself through hell in Tasmania with F1’s Aussie ace Mark Webber

It seems for driver Mark Webber, Formula 1 just isn’t challenging enough. Not content with being a grand prix star, he has put his name to a unique multi-day, multi-sports event.

The Swisse Mark Webber Tasmania Challenge combines some of the toughest endurance sports with Tasmania’s stunning scenery. From 7-11 December, two-person teams will kayak, mountain bike, swim, climb and run for 70km-a-day across some of the toughest terrain in the world.

This premium international fundraising event has three challenge categories: the Van Diemen Cup (five days); Ambassador Cup (three days) and the one-day Challenger Cup, which is open to individual entrants. The money raised goes towards the numerous charitable causes supported by the Mark Webber Foundation.

At the end of each day, competitors will relax in prepared campsites, while enjoying chef-prepared, locally-sourced fine cuisine, and admiring the Tasmanian outdoors at a less frenetic pace. Think of it as a nice little incentive after all that hard effort.

In spite of the tough nature of the race, Webber says a wide selection of people are taking part, from elite racers and sporting celebrities to corporate teams and enthusiastic rookies. Anyone reasonably fit can apply and take up the challenge.

And if you’re not completely convinced, Webber guarantees it will be the “adventure of a lifetime” for everyone who takes part. And that’s coming from a man who broke a leg in this same event in 2008. ■ – MCHEntry to the Van Diemen Cup costs AUS$10,000 per two-person team; the Ambassador Cup costs AU$6,000 per two-person team; the Challenger Cup costs AU$440 per two-person team or $AU220 per individual. For full event details and to sign up please visit: markwebbertasmaniachallenge.com

squaremile 11squaremile.com

guide Multi-SPOrtS WeBBer

The shooTing field has long been used as a place to negotiate business deals. Whether you are shooting at the odd Exmoor pheasant or challenging grouse, or stalking red stag or wild boar in the barren Highlands, the sport lends itself perfectly to entertaining an individual client or an entire trading floor.

The industry’s innate understanding of not only providing exciting sport but also opportunities for business is widely recognised. “I have brokered all sorts of lucrative deals on shooting days,” reveals one Hampshire-based fund manager. “From acquiring a West African oil field to reactivating a German copper mine – some of my most critical contracts have been finalised in a grouse butt.”

He adds that sharing a passion for shooting with

a client is a great way to bolster professional relationships. “There are few other corporate entertainment activities that allow you to spend so much time together. They can be an extremely indulgent experience, with some trips lasting up to a week.”

Christopher Graffius, head of communications at The British Association for Shooting and

Conservation, agrees that the City has always used the shooting field to conduct business. “The fantastic thing about a day’s driven shooting is that it is both a hunt, a sport and a social occasion all rolled into one. The good humour and sportsmanship on a driven shoot create the perfect atmosphere for laying the foundations for deals.”

Despite its popularity in the City, the shooting sector took a hit during the economic downturn. Sporting agents reported increasing numbers of cancellations, with some corporate buyers forced to sacrifice their deposits.

Now that confidence is slowly returning and the City is once again entertaining clients, Square Mile has hunted down some of the finest and most off-beat sporting trips, from some of the best sporting agents in the country, along with one of the most glittering nights out in any field... ■

●● shooting lends itself perfectly to entertaining an individual client or an entire trading floor...

take aim with the big shots

Shooting is not only steeped in tradition, it’s a sure-fire way of hitting it off with important clients, writes selena Masson

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guide

Big game Hunting austriainterHunt.com

It may surprise some that big game can be found much closer to home than the plains of Africa. Austria offers some of the best hunting for species such as the majestic mouflon ram, the elegant mountain chamois, and red stags with antlers to 32 points or more. It could well be argued the Alpine ibex is the greatest of all European big game. Each year, a very limited number can be hunted making this one of the most exclusive quarry species in the world. Their fondness for the mountaintops makes this a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The unforgettable hunt starts in a 16th-century castle and continues up into a wonderland of snow-covered trees, before overnighting in charming log cabins. Ibex are hunted during November and December. Hunts can be arranged from €18,000. 01424 838 759; interhunt.com

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tHe Legend of JoHn macnaBcHarLesBrownLow.com

Based on the famous book by John Buchan, the ‘macnab’ has become a prized sporting achievement. to catch a salmon, shoot a stag and a brace of grouse in one day relies on so many factors coming together, and needs both skill and luck.

charles Brownlow Ltd is offering the chance to have a go at the fabled macnab. accommodation will be in either a traditional Victorian sporting lodge or one of scotland’s top sporting hotels. the price will depend on how long the trip is and how many guests are present. Prices range from £5,000-£30,000. 01312 084 407; charlesbrownlow.com

gwct grouse BaLLgwct.org.uk

If you want to not only entertain your clients but also help raise funds for a shooting-related charity, then the annual Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust (GWCT) Ball is ideal. The GWCT is the leading UK charity conducting scientific research to enhance the British countryside and, for more than 75 years, the charity has been researching and developing game and wildlife management techniques.

The evening, which normally raises in excess of £100,000, is being held at the newly refurbished Savoy Hotel in London on 3 November. A four-course dinner will be followed by dancing until carriages at 1am. Ball organiser Felicity Cranfield says the evening is the perfect place to entertain clients. “Not only is it a chance to buy some fantastic sporting lots at the auction but also to be surrounded by like-minded shooting enthusiasts.”Tickets are £165 each (£1,650 for 10); 020 7290 0110; gwct.org.uk

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guide CoUNtRY PURsUits

train-sHoot safari in scotLandcHarLesBrownLow.com

Want to make a lasting impression on a very important client? How about a Train-Shoot Journey around the Highlands. Gamebirds Southern Africa ran their first, and extremely successful, shoot at the end of October 2010, aboard the sumptuous Royal Scotsman train, chartered from Orient-Express. The luxury seven-day journey around Scotland included a warm-up afternoon of clay pigeons at the legendary Gleneagles Hotel, three full days of driven shooting, plus evening and morning duck and geese flighting for eight people. The epic trip started in Edinburgh, then travelled north through the Highlands to Inverness, Wick and the Pentland Firth. The train returned south via Keith, Aberdeen and Montrose back to Edinburgh. “This once-in-a-lifetime trip is ideal for your very best clients,” enthuses Peter Johnson, the owner of Gamebirds Southern Africa, who for many years has hosted the famous Train-Shoot Safaris in Africa. “The Train-Shoot concept has translated exceptionally well to Scotland”, explained agent Charles Brownlow adding. “There are also exceptional trips arranged every day for non-shooting members of the party.” All types of quarry were produced including driven pheasant, partridge, pigeon, as well as wild duck, geese and woodcock.From £29,750 per person.Contact Charles Brownlow, the Gamebirds Southern Africa representative in Scotland. 01312 084 407; charlesbrownlow.com; [email protected]


guide CoUNtRY PURsUits

“Timeless opulence in the mostspectacular dining room in London”

The Criterion Restaurant is the only culinary destination in the capital blessed with the romance,grandeur and charisma of a neo-Byzantine design. Few would argue that it is one of the most

enchanting and, indeed, memorable restaurants in London. Perhaps even the world?

Lush, extravagant and utterly compelling, the interior seduces you with the glint and wink of gold and marble. Look around and absorb the gilded ceiling, the grand windows and imposing arches,

the fascinating recesses and mirrored walls. And all of this situated in the effervescent heart of Piccadilly Circus! No wonder the restaurant has such a mythical reputation.

When you combine the alluring architecture, the flawless service, the compelling history and the unrivalled cuisine, you can understand why the Criterion Restaurant has been so revered and

admired since it first opened its doors in 1873.

224 Piccadilly, Piccadilly, London W1J 9HP

T: 020 7930 0488 E: [email protected] www.criterionrestaurant.com

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Six of the beStGreat matchday hospitality – and even grander places to stay. Here’s our guide to experiencing the RBS 6 Nations in style


guide

They say RUGBy is a thug’s game played by gentlemen. If you subscribe to that school of thought, then you’ll no doubt be aware that a fair few gentlemen also enjoy watching the mighty game as well. Thankfully, Keith Prowse offers fantastic levels of hospitality that will cater to even the most dignified rugby gents.

To make sure, square mile visited the St Georges Suite at Twickenham, which offers guests a four-course lunch with fine wines and, more importantly, a complimentary bar for the day. The food is fantastic and it would easily impress in any top restaurant.

However, the hospitality is more

than just access to a bar and food – it’s an extension of your match-day experience. I had the pleasure of hearing former England captain Will Carling address the room while I was there and the opportunity to avoid the crush of the crowds makes for a much less stressful day out.

Of course, Keith Prowse had no bearing on the game itself, but when you get to watch England beat Wales after your Welsh mate has been banging on about the lack of passion from the England side, well, let’s just say it makes sitting in the bar for the hour-and-a-half it remains open after the match that little bit sweeter... – MCH

ENGLAND, Twickenham, LondonSat 25 Feb 2012; 16:00: England v WalesSat 17 Mar 2012; 17:00: England v Ireland

SYON PARK LONDONAnyone that has battled onto the overground at Twickenham after a rugby game will understand why a swift escape to a local bolthole might have its benefits. And after a hard day lifting pints, stretching your vocal chords and throwing your finest insults at your team’s opposition, you’ll need somewhere to rest your weary bones and muscles.

Fortunately, at nearby Syon Park there’s a new Waldorf Astoria to help you do just that. Launched this spring, it still has that ‘new hotel’ smell, with bouncy carpets to match. Although the exterior styling has a slight whiff of NHS, inside you’re transported to a five-star haven. With giant Alice in Wonderland chairs and contemporary chandeliers that could be straight out of the Tate Modern, it’s a slice of Manhattan in the middle of, er, Middlesex.

For ridding any post-match tension, treat yourself to the world-class spa – sauna, steam room,

jacuzzi, pool, rain showers – you know, all the things that secretly delight rugby players.

Set in the grounds of the Duke of Northumberland’s estate, in the shadow of the grand Syon House, there are plenty of outdoor pursuits to enjoy, too – including trout fishing.

In the evening, the Peacock Alley bar is a must, where they can even man-up a martini for you in the form of a Brewer’s Feast, which merges Mette hops eau de vie with Bulleit bourbon and homemade ale syrup.

The adjacent Capability restaurant (named after the 18th century landscaper Brown who designed the Syon House gardens) showcases rustic and seasonal fare and classics from the original Waldorf Astoria (eggs Benedict was invented there), featuring vegetables, fruits and herbs grown in the hotel’s gardens.

The bedrooms are the size of rugby pitches – with beds to match. And there’s even a pillow menu offering everything from anti-snore to v-shaped support pillows. So, even if England tanks it on the pitch, at least you’ll sleep well. – MHLondon Syon Park, Middlesex, TW8 8JF; 020 7870 7777; londonsyonpark.com


RUGbY Six NAtioNS

IRELAND, Aviva Stadium, DublinSun 5 February 2012; 15:00; Ireland v WalesSat 25 February 2012; 13:30; Ireland v ItalySat 10 March 2012; 17:00; Ireland v Scotland

THE WESTBuRYThe Westbury is a strange hotel. That’s not meant as a negative. In terms of facilities, it’s excellent and fully justifies its status as one of the Leading Hotels of the World – one of the few hotel ‘brands’ that’s generally worth trusting. The oddness comes from its rather Brigadoon-like ability to be about as central as you can get – effectively halfway between Stephen’s Green and Trinity College – yet remain virtually hidden from view.

It’s quite a trick and, while something of a struggle to find if you’re driving from the airport, the

result is that prize among all hotel clichés, an oasis of calm in the centre of the bustling metropolis.

As well as being surprisingly peaceful, the hotel is beautifully appointed and the corporate facilities – seven meeting rooms, 24-hour business centre – are excellent: the recent multimillion-euro refurbishment appears to be money well spent.

The rooms are stunning, with Sealy beds and Frette linen which, my wife assures me, are both very good things. All I can comment on is how I slept – like the proverbial, thanks – and the quality of the steak sandwiches (excellent) and the Guinness (even better).

Pre- or post-match entertainment is plentiful and the Aviva Stadium is a ten-minute taxi ride away. – NDThe Westbury Hotel, Grafton Street, Dublin 2; +353 (0) 1 679 1122; doylecollection.com

SCOTLAND, Murrayfield, EdinburghSat 4 February 2012; 17:00; Scotland v EnglandSun 26 February 2012; 15:00; Scotland v France

THE BALMOrALWith only Edinburgh’s castle trumping it for a quality central city address, The Balmoral is one of Scotland’s most dependable hotels. While the formidable and Victorian appearance suggests the oldest of schools, the interior packs in modern flourishes.

There are excellent conference facilities, a fine spa, well-equipped gym, plus sauna and steam rooms. The Michelin-starred restaurant Number

One and the Bollinger Bar beautifully balance out all that healthy stuff.

With the trams still not in place, (ask a local about that, I dare you), the Balmoral is a schlep from the airport but couldn’t be handier for Waverley Station, pretty much underneath.

Most rooms have views of the Old Town, the castle, Scott Memorial or the hills. Murrayfield is a 30-minute walk away, one dotted with excellent pubs and bars. We’d suggest leaving the ‘rose Street Challenge’ – one road, 18 pubs, parallel to Princes Street – for your return leg, however. – NDThe Balmoral, 1 Princes Street, Edinburgh, EH2 2EQ; 0870 460 7040; roccofortehotels.com


guide RUGbY Six NAtioNS

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ITALY, Stadio Olimpico, RomeSat 11 February 2012; 16:00; Italy v EnglandSat 17 Mar 2012; 12:30; Italy v Scotland

HOTEL DE RuSSIEWhile Italy is improving as a Six Nations team, they’ve long been able to teach other nations a thing or two when it comes to hospitality.

Rome is not lacking in hotels but, after extensive research – look, you do your job, I’ll do mine – the Hotel de Russie is our tip. It’s a stunning, converted 19th century palazzo located between the Spanish Steps and the Piazza del Popolo. Wander ten minutes in any direction from the front door and you’ll hit something jawdropping such as Vatican City, St Peter’s, the Sistine Chapel, the Piazza Navona or the Trevi Fountain. On the assumption other halves muscle in on your trip – they tend to do that with Rome – such sightseeing is welcome.

Also welcome is the surprise at the hotel’s rear – the appropriately named Secret Garden. You don’t expect extensive terraces in a busy capital city but this, and Le Jardin de Russie restaurant, are great bonuses. – NDHotel De Russie, Via del Babuino 9, 00187 Rome; +3906 328 881; hotelderussie.it

WALES, Millennium StadiumSun 12 February 2012; 15:00; Wales v ScotlandSat 10 March 2012; 14:30; Wales v ItalySat 17 March 2012; 14:45; Wales v France

CELTIC MANOr rESOrTNow, we realise the Celtic Manor resort isn’t exactly close to the Millennium Stadium. In fact, it’s not even in Cardiff. But that’s because frankly there’s nowhere that great to stay in Cardiff and we refuse to do anything in half measures. Besides, any excuse to hire a chauffeur is a good move in our book.

The resort is actually made up of two hotels; the five-star resort Hotel and the 19th century Manor House, both sharing the 1,400 acres of stunning parkland. renowned for its extensive

leisure facilities, which include three championship golf courses and two health clubs, you’ll thank your lucky stars you decided to stay here and not some dingy B&B by the stadium.

Of the hotel’s six restaurants, The Crown shines as the finest option. Michelin-starred chef James Sommerin takes pride in sourcing produce from the best farms in Wales. However, for decor a special mention must go to Hedleys, with its 19th century plaster mouldings, wood panelling and stained glass windows from the Manor House.

But after the match you might not be in the mood for fine dining, so just ask for directions to ‘Chippy Lane’ and enjoy Cardiff’s infamous attraction, an entire street lined with kebab shops. – MCHCeltic Manor Resort, Newport, South Wales, NP18 1HQ; 01633 413 000; celtic-manor.com



FRANCE, Stade de France, ParisSat 4 February 2012; 14:30; France v ItalySat 11 February 2012; 20:00; France v IrelandSun 11 March 2012; 15:00; France v England

THE PLAzA ATHéNéEThe Plaza Athénée, part of the Dorchester Hotel Collection, rejoices in its slightly bizarre slogan: ‘Once upon a time, the palace of tomorrow’, which apparently means it aims to be both classically elegant and cheekily futuristic, and it certainly manages both.

Choose between ordering ‘molecular cocktails’ off a digital photo frame menu at the bar, wolfing down classic French pastries in La Galerie des Gobelins, or defeating even the most stubborn hangover with delicious bistro food from Le Relais Plaza. On that note, you also owe yourself a visit to the hotel’s

three Michelin-starred restaurant, run by chef legend extraordinaire Alain Ducasse, and an accompaniment from the hotel’s 35,000-bottle cellar.

Downstairs is the hotel spa, the grandly-named Dior Institute, whose clinical white decor and beautiful staff make it look a little like a supermodel cloning lab. upstairs, there are 191 rooms and 45 suites, mostly decorated in 18th-century style, with the seventh and eighth floors exclusively art deco. Best suites are the Royale (four bedrooms, two bathrooms, fingerprint entry); the Eiffel Terrace (eighth floor, with panoramic views); and the Eiffel 361.

Book any of these and you’ll also be given keys to a hotel Maserati or Aston Martin for your stay. Of course, you may care to enquire if the hotel can provide a chauffeur to drive you back from Le Stade. – LTPlaza Athénée, 25 Avenue Montaigne, 75008; +33153 676 665; plaza-athenee-paris.com



THE HOSPITAL CLUB24 Endell Street - London - WC2H 9HQ

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For more information please visit: www.thehospitalclub.com

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Sailing cloSe to the windExtreme 40 Class catamarans are fast, dramatic and dangerous. Matthew arthur stowed away on the Formula 1 of yacht racing...


guide

the probleM with competing in sport at the highest level is all the barriers to entry. All that training, the meticulous nutrition and tactical preparation, not to mention the unnatural amount of skill required in the first place. If only there were some way of being involved without having to do any of that.

Sadly, sport at the highest level isn’t usually geared up to accommodate novices. Sauntering casually on court at Wimbledon with Rafael Nadal, jogging alongside Usain Bolt at the London 2012 Olympics, or making a dash for the ball at the next FA Cup final would all go down like a lead balloon. But imagine if there was a sport where the competitors not only needed but welcomed you with open arms.

Enter Extreme 40 catamaraning. Described as the Formula 1 of the sailing world, this international race series, introduced in 2005, features 40ft carbon fibre sailboats hitting a staggering 40 knots (46mph). ▶


Sailing eXtReMe 40

THE RUGBY ACADEMYFORTE VILLAGE RESORT, SARDINIA

IN ASSOCIATION WITH

EXCLUS IVE RUGBY TRA IN ING IN ONE OF THE WORLD ’S LEAD ING HOL IDAY RESORTS

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Founded by Will Greenwood and Austin Healey, Super Skills Travel (SST)

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Operating from the Forte Village Resort in Sardinia, Winner of the ‘World’s leading

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aged 5–16 years to receive rugby coaching from some of the world’s greatest

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Over 3 periods during the summer of 2012, Will and Austin will be joined by other

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Square Mile Ad Sept 11:Layout 1 16/9/11 09:50 Page 1

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▶ Propelled by a 75 sq ft mainsail and displacing 1,250kg of water, Extreme 40 Class cats were built to bring a new level of drama to nautical competitions, and it has more than delivered.

The real selling point with these boats though, is that they are crewed by a team of four, but designed to seat five, meaning that, inexplicably, they allow complete amateurs on board during competitions.

Which is why, on a glorious August day, I found myself clinging on for dear life to the netting of The Wave, Muscat Extreme 40 Class catamaran as the wind heaved one half clean out of the water, lifting me 15ft into the air. The crew, their faces stern with concentration, exchanged amused glances as they saw the eyes of their passenger widen and the skin around

his knuckles grow white. Twenty minutes earlier I was being briefed on safety by a man with a ridiculous, Franco/English patois and windswept, shoulder length hair.

It was hard to take him seriously until he showed some footage of two previous capsizes from that week alone. Tipping fully over on themselves as the wind became too much, and the turn too sharp, the boats invert and anyone on the high side drops a good 40ft into the water. If they’re less fortunate they’ll bounce off the rigging first. Should be exciting, this.

Once on board, it quickly becomes clear that, even if I’m not, the rest of the crew are taking this very seriously indeed. I’m told by a gruff, mountain of a man, Khamis (Al Anbouri, the boat’s bowman), that I am to sit in one of the

four corners of the boat and that if instructed I should move quickly and calmly to the other side. Easy. Except once I’d finished nodding like an idiot I realised I hadn’t actually been listening. No matter, it soon became clear what they required of me, as orders were barked out, sails were unfurled ▶

●● the boats invert and anyone on the high side drops a good 40ft into the water – should be exciting, this


guide Sailing eXtReMe 40

▶ and the jib swung from port to starboard. Conversation was kept to a minimum, but I managed to ask what the teams thought of having a fifth man on board. Was it an annoyance?

“No, it’s useful for us. We use your weight to control the boat,” said Khamis. And would you prefer a heavier or lighter person?

“It depends on the conditions but in light winds like this, your size is ideal,” he grinned at me. (I weigh in at an impressive 11 stone.) And so it was that I became human ballast for the next 40 minutes, diving left and right, backwards and forwards at Khamis’ behest. The crew exchanged instructions in a language all of their own, their technical jargon sailing right over my head, but it was clear that this was important. Extremely important.

Thankfully, conditions were ideal out in the Solent and while the boat kicked along at a fair pace, I was told later our top speed was somewhere around

the 20-knot mark. Still, in the calmer moments, with the sea whipping along beneath you and the hot sun on your face, it was glorious.

I was even invited to contribute to the sailing and to pull in the mainsail. Feet planted on the springy netting, I heaved at the rope and saw the canvas begin to roll up, but the harder I pulled, the tighter it became. Knees bent, shoulders braced I leant back, throwing

all 11 stone into the task. Khamis cracked another grin as I panted and lactic acid in my muscles caused them to burn. It was at this point I realised the sheer physical strength needed to sail a boat like this. Taking the rope, Khamis finished the job with ease and I returned to my spot on the starboard side, brow sweaty, palms burning.

Getting my breath back, I took stock of my surroundings. The scenery at Cowes is spectacular. The bay fills with myriad boats, sails all shining brilliant white in the sun and under the careful skippering of Lee McMillan, who hails from the Isle of Wight, The Wave, Muscat nips and weaves through the smallest of gaps with startling ease. Sponsored by Oman Sail, the boat’s

team have been helping to rekindle interest in Oman’s rich maritime heritage and remind people that it’s a fantastic place to visit. They’ve also worked hard on developing maritime training

programmes. Indeed, the quality of Oman’s sailing is highlighted by the fact that The Wave team current lead the Extreme 40 series after 30 races. But there’s still a long way to go.

In total, there are up to 282 races through the course of the year taking place at nine different locations around the world, including Cowes, Boston, Nice and Muscat, winding up in Singapore. Even if you’re not on board, the views from the shore are excellent, but really, on board is the only place to be. The sense of speed and drama is heightened to such an extent that once on the passenger ferry back to the mainland, I find myself itching to be out on deck with the wind in my face.

Even now, weeks later, I still find myself casually browsing details of trans-Pacific catamaran trips. Perhaps my experience on the world’s most challenging sailing series will land me a place on board. Or perhaps not. ■For more information, go to omansail.com

●● as i panted, my muscles burned and i realised the sheer physical strength needed to sail a boat like this


guide Sailing eXtReMe 40

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‘The Tyger Paw is the first purpose madebrush for studded and cleated footwear’

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Untitled-1 1 19/09/2011 14:53

premier crew Whether testing your team’s mettle or treating top clients, racing a Clipper 68 is the ultimate voyage of self-discovery, says JON HAWKINS

THere cAN be few bigger tests of a team’s strength than being thrown together to control a 68ft round-the-world racing yacht. If working together effectively and making tricky decisions as a unit is tough in the pressure of a City office, it’s a different story when the challenges are not deadlines, clients and markets but high winds, lashing waves and other race competitors.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston – in 1968, the first man to sail solo and non-stop around the world – founded Clipper Ventures in 1995 to allow ordinary members of the public to experience high-octane ocean sailing. In 1996, a fleet of 60ft yachts set off around the globe on the first Clipper Round-the-

World Yacht Race. As the race has established itself as a major fixture in the sailing world so too has Clipper’s hospitality division, Clipper Events.

The same Clipper 68 yachts used to circumnavigate the globe can host sailors of any experience level, from absolute beginners to salty veterans. In fact, sailing is one of the few sports in which a novice can compete in exactly the same machinery used by those who have been at the pinnacle for years.

This, allied to the unique ability to squeeze an entire team, or a selection of clients, onto one or more boats to do battle on the open sea, makes sailing one of the most exhilarating and effective hospitality options available. ▶

●● Sailing is one of the most effective and exhilarating hospitality options available...


guide SAiLiNG cLipper 68

▶ Along with the opportunity to build a bespoke sailing day for colleagues or clients, it’s possible to compete in events including Cowes Week, the JP Morgan Asset Management Round-the-Island race and the notoriously testing Rolex Fastnet race from Cowes to Fastnet Rock off Ireland’s southwest coast and finishing in Plymouth.

There are industry regattas, too, such as the Clipper City Challenge,

giving sailors the chance to race on water against the same City firms they compete and do business with on dry land. Naturally, Clipper has the post-sail side of things covered, with a comprehensive range of options to suit those straight off the boat, and those who opt to remain on terra firma.

If you want to find out exactly how well your team or clients perform under pressure, drop them in a Clipper racing yacht and see if they float. Trust us, they’ll be thanking you for it. ■clipper-events.com

●● The yachts can host sailors of any experience level, from beginners to salty veterans...

The Clipper 68The 68ft masthead cutters designed and built for Clipper Ventures are no slouches; they’re genuine, stripped-out racers constructed to withstand the world’s most brutal oceans. each Clipper 68 carries 11 sails, including three spinnakers – each the

size of a tennis court – and the flat-shaped hull enables the boat to surf down waves at up to 30 knots. As you might expect from a thoroughbred racing yacht, amenities for the skipper and crew of 18 are basic, there is no excess weight onboard to slow the boat, be it in the Solent or the faraway South Seas.

34 squaremile squaremile.com

guide SAiLiNG cLipper 68

Kingly Club

4 Kingly Court

London W1B 5PW

www.kinglyclub.co.uk

For further information

please contact us on:

T 0207 287 9100

Email [email protected]

200x250 Layout.indd 1 04/02/2010 15:43:02

CHIC INTIMATE DESIRABLE

Untitled-1 1 19/09/2011 16:14

YOU COULD BE SO LUCKY, LUCKY, LUCKY......well, luckier than EUGENE COSTELLO, who set up the ultimate date at the O2 but still didn’t get any. Which is not to say his top tips won’t work for you...

ON WHAT WAS a lovely, sunny late spring evening, I was feeling pretty chuffed with myself. I had lined up a fi rst date and managed to snaffl e a pair of tickets to see Kylie at the O2. (The best seats in the house – sorry, dome – naturally.)

On top of that I’d worked like a demon to ensure it would be a night to remember. As it turned out it was, but not quite in the way I had intended. More of that later.

But fi rst, the good stuff. Follow my simple instructions, and what could be simply another trip to a concert can be magically transformed by gently blowing a little of the magic dust I’m going to give you into your cupped hand, and allowing it to settle gently across your evening. Just be careful whom you decide to treat…

1. MAke Like The fRenChIf rushing to the O2 on a cramped,

sweaty Jubilee Line just in time for the show is a burger and chips, think of the following as a Michelin-starred menu dégustation. And that can’t be rushed – consider yourself as a Frenchman


guide

taking a four-hour lunch before popping back to the office to pick up his coat and head off for a couple of hours with the mistress (his ‘cinq à sept’) before going home to his adoring wife and kids. So become a Gallic symbol for a day. Leave work at four. Be good to yourself, no one else is gonna be, fill yer boots, carpe diem an’ all that…

2. A RiveR Runs ThRough iTLondon, that is. The Thames is a motorway into – and out of – central London. So use it. And the excellent Thames Clipper service is like a Maserati of the motorway. Except it can carry, like, loads of people an’ that. So more like a coach. But nippy. And stylish. Like… oh, sod it. You get the picture. So it really is the only way to arrive at the O2. On show nights, the O2 Express starts plying its trade from around 5pm, and runs from Southbank Pier (right by the London Eye), or alternatively London Bridge Pier. From the Southbank, the journey takes around 30 minutes and costs £6 for a single, though I upgraded to VIP

tickets (£13.50 one-way, £19.50 return). You get to board first, and a glass of champagne to sip on the journey.

Unfortunately, my companion texted me as I basked in the glorious Southbank sun to say she was running late and would meet me at the O2. Should have heard the alarm bells… if you really want to be somewhere, you make sure you are, right? Anyhoo, undeterred if a little dented, I cracked on and made the most of the setback as stoically as I could. That is, I used her ticket to glug two glasses of fizz.

3. sTeAk ThATFor us there was only one gastronomic contender: Gaucho O2, where the steaks are always high. On taste. (Sorry.) We love Gaucho. Ceviche. Bloody Marys to die for. Best. Steaks. Ever. Even Hugh Fairly-Whimsical, with his nose-to-tail philosophy, would surely approve of this place. Once they have scraped every last scrap of meat from the bones, they use the cowhide to upholster the seats. And they break up the bones for customers’ toothpicks. ▶

PhotograPh (Kylie) by greg allen / rex Features


O2

▶ 4. The show MusT go onSo. What can I tell you? It was Kylie. There were a lot of men there. It was ‘fabulous’, as a lot of them squealed. On stage, there were lots of men in leather thongs being drenched by warm liquid that was shooting all over them. (Keep your hair on. It was a fountain. On stage. All part of the act.) I recognised some of the songs. A rare experience these days. My companion looked radiant. She really enjoyed it. With hindsight, I should have quit while I was ahead and left it at that…

5. Be PRoud of YouR CRiBAnd not just any crib. No sir. Not at Proud2, the fabulous nightclub at the O2, run by the admirable Proud Group. The outside terrace (Woo-hoo! You can smoke!) is like a little corner of Ibiza that has detached itself from the White Isle, navigated its way through the Straits of Gibraltar (the end of the known world in times of Greeks and

Romans), managed to float across the Bay of Biscay before swimming up the River Thames. The terrace is, as I say, trés chic, all day beds, Moroccan fabrics and beautiful people. Anyway, we had our own day bed (enormous, like a raft for the Swiss Family Robinson), a bottle of fizz in a bucket of ice and, best of all, a framed sign saying, “Reserved for Eugene Costello”. Wowser! I felt pretty, pretty important, I don’t mind telling you.

Over the course of the evening, my companion had been taking my arm as she claimed she couldn’t walk properly owing to breaking or spraining or grazing or scratching her ankle. But like supposedly lame Kevin Spacey at the end of The Usual Suspects, her limp miraculously disappeared and – poof! – like that she was gone. And so quickly that she could have given Usain Bolt a run for his money. Leaving me to wonder whether Keyser Söze had even existed. I mean, whether I had really

had the evening I’d had. Or whether it had all been a beautiful dream from which I’d been cruelly shaken awake. Anyway, she’d evaporated…

6. YouR CARRiAge AwAiTs wiThouT…So, she’d evaporated. Which was a shame, as, with a little technological jiggery-pokery, I’d teed up the excellent Addison Lee to provide a driver to drop her off, then take me home. How? Download the Addison Lee app. Enter your account details or request a cash job and – voilà! In like Flynn. Job done. It knows where you are – after you use it the first time it will know your home address, regular journeys. All that sort of palaver.

Having a uniformed driver collecting me went a little way to restoring my shattered self-confidence. I mean, I like to think I have some effect on women but this was ridiculous.

7. heRe endeTh The LessonSo, there we have it. I had played a blinder. I’d only made one mistake. I’d invited completely the wrong person. Still. At least now I know. It will never happen again. ■

For details of forthcoming shows, visit theo2.co.uk; for reservations at Gaucho O2, 020 8858 7711, gauchorestaurants.co.uk; O2 Express VIP champagne tickets, £13 single, thamesclippers.com; Proud2 bed packages from £100-£500, proud2.com; download the Addison Lee app, addisonlee.com for more information.

THE PLEASURE DOME: Welcome to, (from left), Gaucho O2’s bar; the open terrace and bar at Proud2

●● We had our own day bed, fizz in a bucket and a framed ‘Reserved’ sign. I felt pretty, pretty important


guide O2

a GLaMOrOus and induLGent venue, ideaL fOr hOstinG

Christmas Celebrations • award Ceremonies • Lunches, dinners

film Premiere Parties • Product Launches • Champagne receptions

3 / 4 C o v e n t r y s t r e e t , P i c c a d i l l y , L o n d o n , W 1 d 6 B L

0 2 0 7 3 9 5 5 8 0 7 • w w w . c a f e d e p a r i s . c o m

for smaller groups of up to 80 and for entertaining clients visiting town, why not visit us on

a friday or saturday. We host riotous Burlesque dinner/Cabaret shows early evening and late

club nights where tables, areas and private rooms are available for your entertaining.

Untitled-5 4 16/9/11 11:40:49

NEW AD DPS.indd 28 19/9/11 15:04:03

NEW AD DPS.indd 29 19/9/11 15:04:20

Planning A ChristmasParty In The City?

Zafferano At Christ Church SpitalfieldsElegance & IntrigueIndulge fully in a Baroque theme or simply let Hawksmoor’s Magnificent architecture providethe backdrop to your 'must attend' 2011 Christmas party. Starting at £65 per person, our all-inclusive packages can accommodate up to 600 for a Reception and 270 for dinner.

Packages include: exclusive hire of the whole venue, beautiful food, unlimited drinks package,top London DJ, staffing, lighting, equipment and event management.

Visit www.zafferano.co.uk for sample menus and package details.

• 3 course dinner packages from £140pp* Max. capacity - 270 guests• Reception packages from £65pp* Max. capacity - 600 guests *Prices are tiered according to number of guests and exclude VAT. Due to demand,provisional bookings will be held for 72 hours only.

Call 020 8905 9120 for further details & availabilityor visit www.zafferano.co.ukBy choosing Christ Church you will help maintain this wonderful building for the future.

Untitled-1 1 19/09/2011 14:34

Rowing

It’s a long-standing joke – albeit one borne-out by plenty of evidence – that we Brits excel at sports in which we sit down, like cycling, motor-racing, rowing, sailing and equestrianism. Of all these, rowing is perhaps the sport most associated with GB Olympic success over the years; individuals like Sir Steve Redgrave, Sir Matthew Pinsent and the Searle brothers have made sure of that with their remarkable medal hauls and winning, TV-friendly charm.

While it might be too late for you to emulate their achievements or honours-list appearances (or, who knows, perhaps it isn’t), you can at least get a few tips from the pros and some peerless hospitality thrown in for good measure.

Sporting hospitality specialists Paragon is offering the chance for your group to attend a rowing session at Eton’s Dorney lake (the 2012 Olympic venue) coached by a GBR rower – either 1992 Olympic gold medallist Greg Searle, multiple world champion Katherine Grainger or 2008 Olympic gold medal winner Pete Reed – followed by drinks, a prize-giving reception and a three-course meal.

You won’t be going home with a medal, sadly, but you will at least have rowed against someone who has – a golden opportunity if ever there was one. ■From £9,995 (plus VAT) for 18 guests. 020 8332 8640; [email protected]

PhotograPh by Jonathan Ferrey / getty Images

everyone’s a winner...

Summer 2012 will be massive for sport so get into the spirit by taking on real

gold medal winners, says Jon Hawkins


guide 2012 rowinG

Athletics

while we can’t all ghost past international defenders like lionel Messi or hit a cross-court winner like novak Djokovic, we can all – to varying degrees – run around and throw stuff. Perhaps that’s why we’re all so in awe of superstar athletes like Usain Bolt; he’s not doing anything we can’t do, he’s just doing it a bit faster than us. Yes, oK, a lot faster.

Running the 100m in 9.58 seconds is beyond all of us, but taking to the track to go toe-to-toe with one of the stars of British track and field, remarkably, isn’t. You and your colleagues, clients or friends can receive expert coaching tips from one or more of either javelin legend steve Backley, heptathlete (and 2012 400m hopeful) Kelly sotherton, and three-times olympic medallist (including silver in 1996) Roger Black, at one of Paragon’s ViP participation events.

the competitive element on the day brings the opportunity to earn office bragging rights, particularly if you leave an athletics icon in your spike tracks. there’s a three-course meal and complimentary bar, too – not usually the stuff of medal-winning sprinters – but familiar territory for us ‘desk-based’ athletes. From £8,500 plus VAT for 15 guests. Contact 020 8332 8640 or [email protected]. paragonhospitality.co.uk

PhotograPh by Mark Dadswell / getty Images


guide 2012 aTHLeTiCs

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PARTY LIKE IT’S 1699...MATT HUCKLE samples the baroque-and-roll delights on offer this Christmas in Spitalfi elds...

Catering is an extremely competitive industry, not least within the City of London, so it’s testament to the company’s high standards that, after being founded less than ten years ago, Zafferano has rapidly grown into one of London’s top catering fi rms, winning ‘Caterer of the Year’ in the 2008 Event awards and Eventia’s ‘Catering Firm of the Year’ award in 2009.

Whether you’re after canapés for a cocktail reception, an intimate dinner or an extravagant awards ceremony, Zafferano offers a personal service through its party planners. Being able to go down for a sample tasting session really helps to ensure you get the food exactly the way you want it, and goes a long way towards avoiding any surprises on the night.

Zafferano has worked in some of the most impressive venues in London – including the British Museum,

Kensington Place, Royal Academy of Arts, Somerset House and the Roundhouse – and has a proven track-record of providing a service that fi ts with the best locations in London.

This Christmas, Zafferano will take over Nicholas Hawksmoor’s magnifi cent Christ Church in Spitalfi elds for its baroque-themed ‘Elegance & Intrigue’ parties. With capacity for a 600-guest reception(or 250 for dinner and dancing) anda location on the outskirts of the City, it’s a sure-fi re festive hit.

Zafferano may have quickly risen to the top of the pile of London’s caterers, but it’s a position it looksset to hold onto for a long time. ■Elegance & Intrigue at Christ Church, Spitalfi elds: prices from £65 per head excluding VAT for a reception and £140 for a dinner. For further information contact Zafferano on:020 8905 9120; zafferano.co.uk


GUIDE CATERING ZAFFERANO

Given how frequently we all have to do it, it’s astonishing how poor most of us are at cooking. Open an M&S ready meal and shove it in the oven? Easy. Effortlessly filleting, de-boning and cooking fresh fish in a classic, French style? Not so much…

While square mile likes to think of ourselves as something of a dab hand with a Sabatier, the bite rarely matches the bark when it comes to the crunch.

With this in mind we, and a group of colleagues, headed down to the Class Rooms Culinary Academy on Tudor Street, just a short walk from Fleet Street, for a three-hour masterclass in cooking fish. If three hours wouldn’t be enough to turn any of us into the next Rick Stein, it did promise to teach us some impressive skills and at least we’d be able to eat the fruits of our labour in the Class Room’s adjoining restaurant.

Located in the old Daily Mail building, the Class Rooms offers short courses like ours, alongside serious vocational diplomas, all taught by its team of professional chefs. Ours for the evening, Andrea Fusani, was previously at Daphne’s, Hix Oyster & Chop House and Brown’s Hotel in Mayfair.

He sat us down in the corner of a vast, fully-functioning kitchen, with an array of seafood spread out in front of us, first explaining how to select the freshest fish and methodically taking us through the cleaning and preparation of each. It was news to us, for example, that a squid has a feather-shaped blade of translucent cartilage running through its body and a razor-sharp

beak, nor did we have any idea just how much tissue and detritus has to be removed from a scallop to turn it into that perfect little tablet of deliciousness.

If we didn’t know before, we certainly had to now as the next task, inevitably, was to put our newly acquired skills and knowledge into practice. Fusani first sliced his way through a bewildering array of fish, chopping vegetables and herbs with artistic flair – he stooped low and fixed his glare on each item as though he was cutting it with laser beams emitting from his eyes – piled them into various pots and pans before serving up the most exquisite Thai green curry you’ve ever tasted. Beat that.

Split into two groups, our curry wasn’t quite as effortless in the preparation as Fusani’s but it tasted divine (better than the opposition’s, he told us), looked the part and, more importantly, no one lost any fingers. We devoured it in minutes while he talked us through the next dish on the menu – fillets of baked mackerel with a classic sauce vierge and crushed potatoes – which we would produce on our own.

Handed a mackerel each, we soon set to work and plated up the undeniably impressive-looking dishes what seemed like an instant later.

“You could serve that to a king,” Andrea announced as he inspected square mile’s effort. But no king was getting his mitts on this bit of fish; it was all ours – we’d done the hard bit, after all – and we wolfed it down. ■020 7822 2330; tcrcacademy.co.uk

GO FISHING FOR COMPLIMENTS...A single masterclass in preparing fresh fish finds an amazed Jon hawkins serving up a meal fit for a king


guide CULINARY ACADEMY

Untitled-5 7 16/9/11 11:42:01

Matchday packages tailormade to suit your requirementsAll packages include

• Premium seating• Pre-match dining with refreshments throughout the day• Complimentary bar and a matchday programme

Packages available from only £150+ VAT

Go to www.chelseafc.com/hospitalityor call 0871 512 1242 to book today

Quote ‘Square Mile’

to receive a free bottle of Champagne to complete

your day

tailormade_square_mile_02092011:Layout 1 06/09/2011 10:39 Page 1

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Direct

ory

40|30 at the Gherkin★ 30 St Mary Axe, EC3A 8EP☎ 020 7071 5009@ [email protected] 4030.co.uk

The glass dome at the top of London’s iconic Gherkin is home to one of London’s most exclusive members’ clubs, alongside a two-level restaurant and bar now available for exclusive hire for Christmas parties. If you’ve been to one of square mile’s biannual champagne receptions up there, you’ll know just how good it is. If you haven’t then book yourself in for a tour asap. Bespoke packages are available for all your events needs.

BanquetinG house★ Whitehall, SW1A 2ER☎ 020 3166 6150@ [email protected] hrp.org.uk

Banqueting House boasts a splendid main hall topped by a priceless Rubens ceiling, which consists of nine canvases depicting the life and times of James I. This is the setting for sumptuous

dinners, concerts and receptions. Its second event space – Undercroft – is an atmospheric, candlelit area, which is presented much as in James I’s time. The main hall provides a reception space for events, or an enchanting area for small dinners and cocktail parties.

Christ ChurCh spitalfields★ Fournier Street, E1 6QE☎ 020 7377 6793W spitalfieldsvenue.org

“The best building in London is back,” wrote critic Rowan Moore in 2004 when the magnificent interior of the 300-year-old Christ Church Spitalfields was ushered back to life. The restoration has won several architectural awards and the building stands as one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Britain. A member of Unique Venues of London, Christ Church Spitalfields is an exceptional setting for events in London, just five minutes from Liverpool St. Accommodating 300 guests for dinner and 600 for drinks receptions, the versatile space consists of

the nave, overhanging gal-leries and the separate Old Vestry Room. With a vibrant congregation and host to some of London’s most stylish caterers and event managers, the magnificent backdrop ensures each event is unique.

the Cinnamon CluB★ The Old Westminster Library, 30-32 Great Smith Street, SW1P 3BU☎ 020 7222 2555W cinnamonclub.com

With exquisite food at the top of its genre, a stunning site in the heart of West-minster and a selection of chic contemporary private spaces, The Cinnamon Club is a landmark Indian restaurant with real wow factor. Situated in the Grade

ll-Iisted Old Westminster library, guests can enjoy canapé receptions or private dinners in the impressive wood-panelled main dining room, private dining room, mezzanine floor or library bar. The super-chic lounge bar is the perfect setting for a party, with DJs and cocktails all under one roof.

eiGht moorGate★ 1 Dysart Street, EC2A 2BX ☎ 0808 1801 858W eightclub.co.uk

Eight Moorgate is located just off Finsbury Square on Christopher St, between Liverpool St and Moorgate. It occupies two new purpose-built levels on an existing five-storey corner ▶

THE SKY’S THE LIMIT: (from left) the stunning dome at the Gherkin; the classic interior of Banqueting House; the elegant colonial-style dining room at the Cinnamon Club

Venues

entertainment

eVents

Key

Andaz Liverpool St★ 40 Liverpool St, EC2M 7QN☎ 020 7961 1234 • W andaz.com

Global in scale while local in perspective, Andaz Liverpool St delivers an innovative hospitality experience blending personal preferences with attentive and uncomplicated service. Andaz’s proximity to East London, an area which boasts one of the City’s most creative scenes, has encouraged the hotel’s mission to become a place for people to meet, exchange ideas and combine creativity and business. With five different bars and restaurants, private dining areas, gallery spaces and numerous more exciting creative initiatives launching in 2011, Andaz is well on its way to achieving this goal.


guide Directory

020 8326 [email protected] www.audiquattrorooms.co.uk

Light, bright and versatile, the perfectvenues for business meetings andspectacular exclusive events958 Great West Road, Brentford, London TW8 9BQ

74-76 Piccadilly, London W1J 8HU

Audi quattro roomsLondon

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▶ building with its own private entrance and lift access. The restaurant is bright and airy, encased in glass and has a capacity of 80 guests (more with outside space in warmer months) and a private room for up to 20. A balcony stretches around the entire floor with an al fresco chef’s table for 16 guests. It also features a bbq spit-roast perfect for standing events for up to 100. Christmas dinners are available.

freemasons’ hall★ 60 Great Queen Street, WC2B 5AZ☎ 020 7831 9811W ugle.org.uk

The headquarters of the United Grand Lodge of England and the principal meeting place for masons since 1775, the Freemasons’

Hall is one of the finest art-deco buildings in England. Located in Covent Garden, the venue is a spectacular Grade II-listed building. The Freemasons’ Hall can accommodate corporate events for up to 1,200, including dinners for 260 in The Vestibule and conferences for up to 220 delegates in The Grand Officers’ Robing Room.

Guildhall★ Gresham Street, EC2P 2EJ☎ 020 7332 1313W guildhall.cityoflondon.gov.uk

Part of the Unique Venues of London group, the Guildhall complex includes the Great Hall, Old Library, Crypts, Guildhall Art Gallery and Basinghall Suite. All are available for hire for private events. As the home of the

City of London Corporation, Guildhall has entertained world leaders and continues to provide a splendid venue for state banquets. It hosts a unique mix of both civic and ceremonial affairs, and government functions. In September 2008, a new space, the Old Museum, became available to hire for conferences, meetings, receptions and dinners.

hms Belfast★ Morgans Lane, Tooley Street, SE1 2JH☎ 020 7403 6246W hmsbelfast.iwm.org.uk

Launched in 1938, HMS Belfast served throughout World War II playing a leading role at the Battle of North Cape and in the Normandy landings. Saved for the nation as a unique reminder of Britain’s naval

heritage, HMS Belfast (part of the Unique Venues of London collection) provides an interesting venue to host an event for any occasion – boardroom meetings for up to 35 delegates, conferences for up to 100 people, and exclusive banquets, including Christmas parties, in the original Ship’s Company Dining Hall. HMS Belfast has fantastic views across to the Tower of London and Tower Bridge, providing a popular summer party venue for up to 450 guests.

honouraBle soCiety of linColn’s inn★ Lincoln’s Inn, WC2A 3TL☎ 020 7405 5969W lincolnsinn.org.uk

The historic buildings of Lincoln’s Inn are set in spacious, beautifully main-tained private gardens in the heart of central London. The halls and rooms avail-able for hire are steeped in history and tradition dating back to the 15th century, providing a sumptuous backdrop for all kinds of events. In the summer, you can hold receptions on the Terrace overlooking the beautiful gardens. The Old Hall is one of the finest Tudor buildings in London dating back to 1490, and can be hired during the day, evenings and weekends.

hurlinGham CluB★ Ranelagh Gardens, SW6☎ 020 7610 7400W hurlinghamclub.org.uk ▶

Audi quattro rooms★ 958 Great West Road, TW8 9B★ 74-76 Piccadilly, W1J 8HU☎ 020 8326 1810 • W audiquattrorooms.co.uk

Audi has launched its flagship venue concept, the Audi quattro rooms, to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the first high performance all-wheel drive ‘quattro’ car in 1980. Two cool and contemporary venues – one located in Piccadilly and the other in west London, on the outskirts of Chiswick – reflect the intelligent design and sophisticated luxury you would expect from the Audi brand. Each venue offers flexible and creative atmospheres, which can be easily transformed to suit any occasion, from business meetings to exclusive events.


guide Directory

HOUSE RULES: (clockwise, from top) Eight Moorgate; Freemason’s Hall; Guildhall’s crypt

C o r p o r a t e E v e n t s · P r i v a t e F u n c t i o n s · P u b l i c Parties

Tu r n y o u r c r o w d o n . . .

Entertaining, engaging and dynamic live music

ranging from Funk and Soul to Rock ‘n‘ Roll,

Indie and Hip Hop to 80‘s and 00‘s Pop.

Musicians have performed and toured with: Enrique Iglesias, Girls Aloud, Il Divo, Jennifer Lopez, Leona Lewis,

Mika, Susan Boyle, The Foundations, The Human League, Westlife & Will Young.

For more information: www.floodthefloor.co.uk

Tel : +44 (0) 7973 684474

E-mail: [email protected]

Clients include:

FLOODTHEFLOOR

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▶ Nestled in 42 acres of landscaped gardens and lawns overlooking the Thames is the Hurlingham Club – a Georgian country house within a green oasis located in the heart of Fulham. Magnificent event space is provided by The Hurlingham Suite, found in the renovated east wing of the elegant clubhouse. Designed for maximum flexibility, the suite offers rooms of varying sizes that can be closed off or thrown open to provide seating for up to 1,000 diners. The Hurlingham Club also offers terraces for barbecues and outside events, car parking, wi-fi and an onsite jetty for riverboat cruises.

JuJu★ 316-318 King’s Rd, SW3 5UH☎ 0207 351 5998W jujulondon.com

Named ‘Best Bar’ at the 2011 London Bar & Club awards, JuJu is available for exclusive hire for private parties and corporate events. The Kings Rd venue

has capacity for 300 in total, alongside a 30-person VIP area with luxurious sofas and a private lounge with its own bar, DJ facilities and a projector screen. JuJu serves pan-Asian tapas, while its cocktail bar was highlighted for its outstanding mixology, again at the 2011 London Bar & Club awards. Better still, there’s no room or venue hire charge, making JuJu the perfect venue for any kind of celebration.

kensinGton roof Gardens★ 99 Kensington High Street, W8 5SA☎ 020 7937 7994W roofgardens.virgin.com

One of London’s only rooftop private members’ clubs, this is as glamorous as they come. Three themed gardens sprawling over 1.5 acres host fully-grown oaks and fruit trees and a flowing stream brimming with fish and wildlife. The Spanish Garden is based on the Alhambra in Granada, Spain; the Tudor Garden is filled with evergreen shrubs surrounded by fragrant lilies, roses and lavender in the summer months; and the English Woodland is home to the club’s flamingos. On the seventh floor, the club’s restaurant Babylon boasts amazing views over London’s skyline. The Roof Gardens is taking bookings for Christmas parties, but you’ll need to book soon.

the kinG’s fund★ 11-13 Cavendish Square, W1G 0AX☎ 020 7307 2474W kingsfund.org.uk/venuehire

The King’s Fund resides in a landmark, Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse overlooking Cavendish Square, in the heart of London’s West End. The

inspiring building offers a range of spaces from traditional boardrooms to three modern conferencing suites. Having completed an extensive refurbishment, it now offers a 225-seat theatre and a fantastic conservatory. The venue held over 4,000 successful events last year ranging from large scale confer-ences, meetings, dinners and training days.

mews of mayfair★ 10 Lancashire Court, New Bond St, W1S 1EY☎ 020 7518 9395W mewsofmayfair.comIf you are looking to put on a memorable private dinner then Mews of Mayfair’s top-floor chef’s dining room is a great setting for 18-28 guests. For a more quirky affair, the wine boutique La Cave is ideal for lunch or dinner for up to 16 guests. Mews Art Gallery is a tasty space for drinks and canapés; with its contemporary feel the room is perfect for larger groups or corporate gatherings up to 60 people. The first-floor restaurant doubles as a large private room, holding up to 70 seated guests, and can be hired exclusively in the lead up to Christmas. An alternative option for a more relaxed evening is the basement lounge bar which can accommodate exclusive stand-up events for between 80 and 150 people.

middle temple hall★ The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, Middle Temple Lane, EC4Y 9AT☎ 020 7427 4800W middletemple.org.uk

Middle Temple Hall and private rooms are fitting backdrops for all types of occasion: wedding ▶

chelsea Fc★ Stamford Bridge, Fulham Rd, SW6 1HS☎ 0871 984 1955 • W chelseafc.com

Whether you’re entertaining clients or indulging friends and family, the hospitality experience at Chelsea FC guarantees a consistent high standard of entertainment, both on and off the pitch. Award-winning chefs source from local suppliers and serve produce of the highest quality, ensuring the menu changes regularly. From à la carte table service to an informal carvery, the wide range of packages offer a variety of dining options. A range of international wines and spirits provide the perfect accompaniment to your meal and are included as part of most packages, so you won’t even have to worry about settling the bill.Packages available from £150 plus VAT pp.


guide Directory

GET THE LONDON LOOK: (clockwise, from left) The Roof Gardens in Kensington is an oasis in West London; award-winning style at Chelsea’s JuJu; minimalist class at Mews of Mayfair

Looking for something special this Christmas? Impress your colleagues, treat your friends or simply have a great night out. Our Winter Garden Christmas parties at The Roof Gardens will leave you mesmerised this festive season.

0207 937 7994 | [email protected] WWW.ROOfGaRdens.vIRGIn.COm/evenTsOffeRsThe ROOf GaRdens, 99 KensInGTOn hIGh sTReeT, LOndOn W8 5sa

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▶ receptions, luncheons, banquets and concerts as well as meetings and conferences. A member of Unique Venues of London, the Hall staged the first per-formance of Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night in 1602. It has remained virtually unaltered to the present day, and still serves as a meeting place for new generations of lawyers. A friendly and attentive catering team are available to help you to plan exactly what your occasion requires.

proud CaBaret★ 1 Mark Lane, EC3R 7AH☎ 020 7283 1940W proudcabaret.com

Proud Cabaret, located next to Fenchurch Street station, is reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy, the venue exudes decadence and is as flexible as its dancers.

The restaurant serves up exquisitely executed British classics from noon-9pm for up to 130 diners and can be hired for up to 350 people wanting drinks parties. Entertainment is available if required, includ-ing burlesque performers and musicians. There is a separate VIP area on offer and the 5am licence means that the party may continue long into the night, if you’ve got the staying power.

sandown park★ Portsmouth Rd, Esher, Surrey, KT10 9AJ☎ 01372 464 348W sandown.co.uk

Sandown Park is renowned for delivering thrilling year-round horse racing – whether you’re after a full top’n’tails experience, or something more relaxed. The Surrey racetrack, just 25 minutes from Waterloo,

offers flexible hospitality and entertainment facilities with uninterrupted views of the racecourse. There’s a wide range of options from restaurant packages to private boxes and suites.

diVine Company☎ 020 7558 8592W divinecompany.co.uk

Divine Company offers a heavenly array of top quality performances guaranteed to add the ‘wow’ factor to any occasion.

It is one of the largest companies of its kind in the UK and has attained a dazzling reputation for supplying highly engaging and original entertainment over the last decade.

Divine Company offers a range of unique circus and dance acts – from walk-about and dance-about performances to high impact stage shows – ▶

SEEING GREEN: (clockwise, from top left) Divine Company ‘Arcadian’ stilt-walkers; the beautiful lawns at Middle Temple; the paddock at Sandown

town Hall Hotel★ Patriot Square, E2 9NF☎ 020 7871 0460 • W townhallhotel.com

Just 15 minutes from Liverpool St, the five-star Town Hall Hotel & Apartments feature a swimming pool, free Wi-Fi and fitness equipment.

Town Hall offers a range of stylish hotel bed-rooms and spectacular suites, while the spacious, serviced apartments include modern lounge areas, DVD players and satellite TV.

The Michelin-starred Viajante restaurant, by Chef Nuno Mendes, offers fine dining, with the Corner Room serving his brasserie-style food.

To book, contact [email protected] quoting square mile magazine for a10% discount.


guide Directory

LOCAL TALENT: (clockwise, from top) House of Burlesque; McQueen; Flood The Floor

▶ performed by a multi-skilled core company of artists, whether you want a bevy of burlesque dancers or a troupe of fire-eaters to ensure your event stands out from the crowd.

the house of Burlesque★ Operates nationwide; will come to your venue☎ 07772 020 220@ [email protected] houseofburlesque.co.uk

Burlesque may find its ori-gins in the early 19th century – but it’s very 2011. Whether you’re looking for an evening out at one of Lon-don’s most decadent shows at a range of venues around the capital, or to bring some dazzling performers to your private event, the House of Burlesque will provide glamorous, elegant, and extravagant burlesque entertainment. A wide range of exclusive holiday and corporate packages are available.

flood the floor☎ 07973 684 474W floodthefloor.co.uk

Flood The Floor are a highly-skilled band available to hire for corporate events, parties and weddings. You may have already had the chance to see them at the square mile summer party this year – and at last year’s square mile Masked Ball. They’re so good, we booked them twice! They have played at the UK’s top venues including Bir-mingham NEC, Shepherd’s Bush Empire and The Royal Albert Hall and have toured with Enrique Iglesias, Girls Aloud, Il Divo, Leona Lewis, Mika, The Human League, and Will Young. The band usually performs as a five-piece, but can expand the line-up to include a horn section and additional singers if you require.

definitiVe eVents☎ 0161 212 1595W definitiveevents.co.uk

Specialist events manage-ment company Definitive Events designs, plans and manages incentives pro-grammes around the world, based on clients’ strategic business objectives. The company creates bespoke experiences that make a lasting impression and, for some, provide a ‘once in a lifetime experience’. With 13 years’ experience of UK and international live events, Definitive is an expert in flawless planning and delivery, working with clients every step of the way to en-sure goals are achieved and expectations are exceeded. It also offers a venue-finding service, high-level meeting delivery, and a specialist sports division to ensure every angle is covered.

eVents Guaranteed★ 2 Salford St, SW2 4BH ☎ 07919 116 735W scottashby.co.uk

Events Guaranteed is an exclusive event manage-ment company that serves London’s high-end business clients. Offering event con-sultancy and management, it supports all areas of event planning and execution. Working in partnership with production specialist Oxygen Event Services Ltd, at the capital’s most prestigious venues and with the most innovative caterers, its service seeks perfection and – as the name suggests – guarantees it. Events Guaranteed advises, designs and creates events and promises to deliver all of your personal and company needs by providing the very best in strategic planning and event delivery. ■

McQueen★ 55-60 Tabernacle St, EC2A 4AA☎ 020 7036 9229 (Ask for Dezzi McCausland)W mcqueen-shoreditch.co.uk

Introducing McQueen, the ultimate style sanctuary set in the heart of Shoreditch. Within just six weeks of opening, McQueen was awarded ‘Best Bar 2010’ in the London Bar & Club Awards for its stunning club and bar interior and the phenomenal following it had already created.

Located just off Old Street, it occupies an original Victorian warehouse. With high ceilings and sleek design, the 280-capacity lounge bar, 250-capacity club and 50 cover restaurant offer unique environments for any type of event.

The dedicated events team has a wealth of experience in the production and co-ordination of corporate and private events and works closely with the client to manage and advise on every aspect of each event.

Alongside private events, McQueen plays host to a number of high profile functions from the music, fashion and film industries.

McQueen also provides exquisite entertain-ment from the burlesque and circus world including international performers.


guide Directory

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Club Class HospitalityKnown as one of the capital’s finest clubs, fabric is a also a class-leading corporate entertainment venue on the City’s doorstep

if you’re planning a corporate

function, legendary Farringdon nightclub fabric

might not be the first venue to spring to mind,

but there are plenty of reasons why it should.

In fact, it might just be the best kept hospitality

secret with an EC postcode.

Located in a former cold store opposite

Smithfield meat market, fabric retains reminders

of its past life, from high ceilings and arches to

the exposed brickwork throughout the venue. A

world-renowned sound system and state-of-the-

art lighting galleries – voted among the best in

the world – and ingenious use of the renovated

Victorian space keep things contemporary.

The result is a hugely versatile and

undeniably impressive space suitable for

functions of any type, from Christmas parties,

conferences and award ceremonies, to fashion

shows, product launches, banquets and art

presentations. Since its inception in 1999,

fabric has always been more about music

and atmosphere than glamorous fixtures and

fittings, so the relatively blank individual spaces

can be easily transformed to suit clients’ needs.

The club is segregated into a number

of different spaces, and it’s possible to take

over the entire venue or just part of it. The

main room alone is incredibly versatile: with a

prominent stage and expansive floor space it

can play host to a variety of music-orientated

or sit-down events. It has room for 800, and

the mezzanine VIP balcony bar overlooking the

room increases the space’s capacity to 1,100.

A sunken bar leads to the second room, again

with its own stage, and a capacity of 500, while

the third – effectively a club-within-a-club – has

Light fantastic: Exposed brickwork and Victorian arches throughout fabric provide a pictur-esque backdrop for world-class light and sound systems, and a blank canvas for corporate branding


guide

room for 200, its own access from the lobby,

and a staircase leading to the body of the club.

But perhaps fabric’s biggest draw as a

corporate venue is its proximity to both the City

and, increasingly, the rest of London. Farringdon

is already accessible by National Rail, as well as

Metropolitan, Hammersmith & City and Circle

underground lines, and the Crossrail project

will transform it into one of the capital’s busiest

stations. A Thameslink connection to Stratford

will also be completed ahead of the Olympics,

though fabric will offer sports enthusiasts, and

corporate groups, the chance to see the action

screened live in a more sophisticated setting.

No matter what the occasion, hosting your

corporate event in one of the UK’s top clubs is

tough to beat, even more so when it’s located

so close to the heart of the Square Mile. At this

rate, odds are it won’t stay a secret for long. ■

fabric, 77A Charterhouse St, EC1M 6HJ. For information, quotes or site visits contact the fabric events team on 020 7549 4844; [email protected]; fabricevents.com; on Twitter, @fabric_events; and fabric events on Facebook.

●● The club is a versatile, high-impact venue suitable for functions of any type, from Christmas parties to conferences and fashion shows...

promotion


Managing Director Aaron TImms on 01323 411 663Sales contact [email protected]

DESIGNPRODUCTION

MANAGEMENTGLOBAL SERVICES

Service We are an award winning exhibition design and build company providing total solutions to our clients, on time and in budget. We pride ourselves on our level of service, quality & attention to detail for any live event

EXHIBITION DESIGNCUSTOM BUILDPORTABLE DISPLAYSMODULAR SYSTEMSCONFERENCE SETSTHEMED EVENTSPRODUCT LAUNCHESRETAIL INTERIORSMULTIMEDIA SOLUTIONSPROJECT MANAGEMENTGLOBAL SERVICE

Experience 20 years of global experience delivering successful exhibition stands and events to very happy clients means that we have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of how best to promote your brand & products

Contact:

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Month Date event venue Category

Nov 2011 20-27 Barclays ATP World Tour Finals o2 tennis

Nov 2011 24-26 Hennessy Winter Festival Newbury Racecourse horse raCing

Nov 2011 30 Nov-4 Dec Aegon Masters Tennis Royal Albert Hall tennis

Dec 2011 8 Nomura varsity Match Twickenham rugby

JAN 2012 16-29 Australian open Melbourne Park Tennis centre tennis

FeB 20124, 5, 11, 12, 25, 26 / MAR 10, 11, 17

RBS 6 Nations various Stadia rugby

MAR 2012 13-16 cheltenham Festival cheltenham horse raCing

APR 2012 7 The Xchanging Boat Race Thames rowing

APR 2012 12, 13, 14 John Smith’s Grand National Meeting Aintree Racecourse horse raCing

APR 2012 22 virgin London Marathon London athletiCs

MAy 2012 MAy-JuN West Indies in england various venues CriCket

MAy 2012 27 MAy-10 JuN French open Roland Garros tennis

MAy 2012 12 FA cup Final Wembley Stadium Football

MAy 2012 19 champions League Final Arena Munchen Football

MAy 2012 20 Heineken cup Final Twickenham rugby

MAy 2012 24-27 Monaco Grand Prix Monte carlo ForMula 1

JuN 2012 JuN-JuL Australia in england various venues CriCket

JuN 2012 1, 2 Investec Derby Festival epsom Downs Racecourse horse raCing

JuN 2012 11-17 Aegon championships Queens club, london tennis

JuN 2012 19-23 Royal Ascot Ascot Racecourse horse raCing

JuN 2012 8 JuN-1 JuL ueFA euro 2012 Poland and ukraine Football

JuN 2012 25 JuN-8 JuL The championships, Wimbledon AeLTc Wimbledon tennis

JuN 2012 27 JuN-1 JuL Henley Royal Regatta Henley-on-Thames rowing

JuN 2012 30 JuN-22 JuL Tour de France France CyCling

JuL 2012 JuL-SeP South Africa in england various venues CriCket

JuL 2012 6-8 British Grand Prix Silverstone ForMula 1

JuL 2012 19-22 The open championshipRoyal Lytham & St Annes Golf club Lancashire

golF

JuL 2012 22 cartier International Polo Windsor Great Park Polo

JuL 2012 27 JuL-12 AuG olympics London N/A

AuG 2012 9-12 BMW PGA championshipsThe ocean course, Kiawah Island, South carolina

golF

AuG 2012 11-18 cowes Week Isle of Wight sailing

AuG 2012 27 AuG-9 SeP uS open New york tennis

Sporting lifeIf you plan it well enough, you could be entertaining clients at a top sporting event every month. It’s a tough life, eh?...


guide 2011-2012 DiArY

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Documents

Square Mile Guides - Corporate Hospitality - 2011