When selecting a Christmas party venue, there are so many things to consider. You’ll need somewhere that’s easy to get to and has a great ambience. But more importantly, you’ll need a venue that will stick in people’s minds for years to come. It is the event of the year after all. Fortunately, we’ve got a great recommendation. Set on a secluded island on the Thames, Monkey Island Estate is a Christmas party venue with charm and exclusivity in equal measure.
Just a short drive from London, located between Windsor and Maidenhead, Monkey Island Estate is an 18th-century retreat turned hotel. The Marlborough Ballroom, a stately space with stunning river views, accommodates festive parties of up to 130 guests. Alternatively, for smaller events, The River Room offers two more intimate spaces, which can be formed into one large room for a festive three-course meal with 100 guests. All the decorations and Christmas crackers are included.
Greeted with a welcome drink, you’ll feast on a carefully considered seasonal menu of classic French and British fare. You might start with quail egg Maintenon with mushroom duxelles and Hollandaise sauce. The mains selection has included braised ox cheek served with Vichy-style carrots, pommes chateau and roast parsnips. All the Christmassy favourites are in attendance, roast turkey, poached fruits and a traditional Monkey Island Homemade Christmas pudding each of them elevated and refined.
Christmas parties at Monkey Island Estate have a reputation for 5-star excellence. We’re not just talking about the hotel's credentials, in the 1920s Monkey Island Estate was a veritable celebrity destination. King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra took afternoon tea on the lawn, and many artists and literary figures were frequent visitors. So why not take the opportunity, and treat your team to a taste of royalty this year?