Venues of Excellence, the UK’s leading sales and marketing consortium for independent conference and event venues, is delighted to welcome the historic Sheldonian Theatre in Oxford city centre into its membership.
Oxford is a key destination for conference and event organisers seeking an alternative to London, and the addition of the Sheldonian Theatre further strengthens Venues of Excellence’s presence in the city. Working closely with its VX Find team, the consortium can now offer organisers an even more compelling portfolio of unique, historic, and truly exceptional venues in which to host their events.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome the Sheldonian Theatre into the Venues of Excellence consortium. It is one of the UK’s most prestigious and recognisable venues, steeped in history and architectural significance, and it perfectly reflects the quality, individuality, and excellence that our members represent. The Sheldonian Theatre’s addition further enhances our Oxford offering and provides event organisers with an extraordinary venue that delivers both impact and experience.”
Mandy Jennings, CEO, Venues of Excellence
The Sheldonian Theatre is not only an architectural treasure but also one of Oxford’s most atmospheric and versatile event venues. Designed by renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren and completed in 1669, this Grade I-listed building offers a distinctive blend of historic grandeur and functional flexibility, making it an exceptional setting for gatherings of all kinds. Its classical exterior lends an immediate sense of occasion, while the spacious interior provides clear sightlines and excellent acoustics, ideally suited for large audiences.
The venue can accommodate up to 700 delegates, with additional spaces available for smaller team away days and off-site meetings. The vivid artwork and expansive 32-panel fresco painted ceiling by Robert Streater provides a unique and memorable backdrop for receptions and dinners.
Joining the Venues of Excellence consortium, Vickie Dimelow, Head of Oxford University Event Venues, commented: “The Sheldonian Theatre becoming a Venues of Excellence member was the natural next step for us at Oxford University Event Venues, following sister venue the Examination Schools joining the consortium three years ago. These two iconic venues are landmarks amongst the ‘dreaming spires’ of Oxford, boasting historical significance and architectural beauty, alongside the largest delegate capacity in the city and, of course, offering the very best in customer experience.
The Sheldonian Theatre is a truly unique space with its stunning oil-painted ceiling, circular tiered gallery seating and rooftop cupola with uninterrupted panoramic views across the city skyline. It is the perfect location for any event seeking a ‘wow’ venue, from plenaries, AGMs and away days to receptions, dinners, and ceremonies.
We are delighted to be developing our relationship with Venues of Excellence by having our two flagship venues within the membership and look forward to welcoming many new customers to the venue in the near future.”
Looking ahead, 2026 will see a number of new venues joining the Venues of Excellence consortium, further reinforcing the organisation’s position as the UK’s leading membership body for independent conference and event venues.
