Hatfield Park: A Historic Venue Blending Tradition, Modernity & Sustainability for Unforgettable Events

As Hatfield Park prepares to exhibit at International Confex 2025, we caught up with their Marketing Director, Sarah Cataldo, to discuss what makes this historic venue a standout choice for events. From the grandeur of the Old Palace, once home to Queen Elizabeth I, to the contemporary Riding School, offering flexible event spaces, Hatfield Park blends tradition with modernity. With a commitment to sustainability and a diverse range of event opportunities, Sarah shares insights into how Hatfield Park is evolving to meet the needs of today’s event planners.

Can you tell us a little about Hatfield Park and what makes it a standout venue for events?

Located just 22 minutes from London Kings Cross, Hatfield Park offers a variety of unique and versatile spaces for hosting your next meeting, conference, event, special occasion, or memorable dining experience in Hertfordshire. 

What makes Hatfield Park unique compared to other venues in the UK?

One of the standout venues is the Old Palace, a site rich in history that played a significant role in the early life of Queen Elizabeth I, who spent much of her childhood here. This majestic venue not only provides a historical ambiance but also features elegant architectural details, making it an ideal setting for conferences, exhibitions, and exclusive dining experiences that aim to impress guests with a touch of royal history.

For a more modern setting, the Riding School is perfectly situated within the vibrant Stable Yard area. This contemporary space is designed to cater to a range of event needs, offering flexible layouts that can be customised to suit various group sizes and configurations. It includes multiple breakout areas that foster collaborative discussions and a spacious mezzanine that bathes in natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for networking and creativity.

Moreover, Hatfield Park itself encompasses over 250 acres of beautifully landscaped outdoor space, providing several picturesque locations that are perfect for a variety of activities. Whether you are looking to host team-building exercises, festivals, concerts, or even outdoor cinema screenings, the expansive grounds offer a multitude of options, allowing for unique and memorable experiences in a breathtaking natural setting.

What are some of the most memorable events that have taken place at Hatfield Park?

Every year, Hatfield Park is the southern location of Slam Dunk Festival – holding up to 28,000 on our showground. We have also worked with many other amazing clients including Savill’s, Ecclesiastical and Kilimanjaro Live.

What inspired you to exhibit at International Confex 2025, and what can attendees expect from your stand/team?

We exhibited for the first time last year and loved the experience and the atmosphere. We were able to meet and connect with a multitude of prospective clients and professionals looking to host their next event or conference with us.

We look forward to returning with our team to show and promote the varied spaces that Hatfield Park has to offer.

Does Hatfield Park have any sustainability initiatives in place for hosting eco-friendly events?

At Hatfield Park, we aspire to lead by example on environmental respect and sustainability, boosting biodiversity and cutting waste and carbon. Our approach to making a positive environmental impact has been set to three clear commitments: 

• Reduce Carbon: Scope 1 and 2 net-zero by 2030 and Scope 3 net-zero by 2035. Helped by the introduction of a 2% carbon offset and biodiversity levy.
• Enhance biodiversity: 20% overall increase in biodiversity, and 10% increase in biodiversity on farmed land, both by 2035.
• Eliminate waste: Zero waste to landfill and elimination of single-use plastics by 2030.

What steps have you taken to accommodate hybrid and virtual event components?

Both The Old Palace and The Riding School are fitted with modern audio-visual equipment, perfect for any hybrid and virtual meetings or attendees.

We often host live events and virtual meetings and recently hosted a public enquiryfor Hertfordshire County Council, over a two-week period, entirely over Zoom – which was a huge success.

Are there any exciting future developments or refurbishments planned for Hatfield Park?

Due to The Old Palace being a Grade I listed building, and our surrounding venues holding so much history, we are mostly focused on the upkeep and conservation of these buildings but are always striving to improve and maintain the utmost quality in these areas.

How does your team support event planners in delivering a seamless experience?

Our in-house events team are available for support throughout the process, from booking to execution. With a dedicated event coordinator, someone is always on hand to help throughout the planning and can offer expert specialisms depending on the nature of your business.

What accessibility features does Hatfield Park offer for guests and event planners?

The Old Palace and Riding School both have accessible entrances, with a lift to the mezzanine floor in the Riding School. Our Car Park has designated disabled spaces, as well as flat hard-standing pathways to all the venues.

What trends are you seeing in the events industry, and how is Hatfield Park adapting to them?

Demand for additional activity is currently very high, and we are able to offer a multitude of special extras including:

• Private tour of Hatfield House, an outstanding example of Jacobean architecture and the private home of Lord and Lady Salisbury
• Exclusive tour of the archives, a collection of international historical importance
• Beekeeping with the grounds of Hatfield Park
• Walking meetings amidst the beautiful tranquil setting of the Park
• Outdoor dining in a choice of unique woodland and park settings
• Outdoor and indoor wellbeing sessions
• Wine tasting experiences

 

How do you see the role of historic venues like Hatfield Park evolving in the events industry?

Historic venues like Hatfield Park offer a unique blend of history and modern amenities, making them ideal for a variety of events. As the events industry evolves, we can continue to offer both immersive historical experience and flexible, contemporary spaces. Their charm and authenticity appeal to those seeking memorable, personalised experiences, while their modern features ensure functionality. 

Are you offering any special promotions or booking incentives during the show?

Anyone who is interested in Hatfield Park as a future venue is invited to come for a personal tour of the venues and outdoor spaces, as well as a complimentary lunch at our on-site restaurant.

What are you most looking forward to at International Confex this year?

After a successful debut year, we look forward to returning with our team to show and promote the varied spaces we have to offer. We cannot wait to welcome everyone to Hatfield Park.

Make sure you visit Hatfield Park at International Confex at stand UVP1!