A scenic conference venue in the heart of Cumbria, with adaptable spaces and dependable support.
Hosting a conference in Carlisle?
Think beyond the boardroom
Carlisle Racecourse is one of the most accessible conference venues in Carlisle and Cumbria. Sitting just two miles from the M6, delegates from Manchester, Newcastle, Glasgow and Edinburgh can reach us easily.
We offer space for up to 550 attendees, a keynote suite that splits for breakouts, and daylit rooms overlooking the course to the Lake District fells. With free parking, AV facilities and a dedicated event manager to guide you, conference venue hire has never been easier.
Browse flexible conference spaces
Whether you’re planning a large keynote session, or a focussed leadership workshop, our spaces can be shaped around your programme.
Large suites split for breakouts, smaller rooms come with private balconies over the course, and many have natural daylight with views towards the Lake District. Everything is close together, so delegates spend their time in sessions, not walking between them.
Why Host a Conference at Carlisle Racecourse?
A well-connected conference venue in Cumbria, with the space and setting to make your event stand out.
Space for up to 550 delegates, with up to 550 theatre-style or 250 cabaret-style in the Patterson Suite.
Free Wi-Fi, AV equipment and built-in screens, with daylit rooms that help delegates stay focused.
Two large suites one floor apart. The Patterson Suite and Bell Hall work together for plenaries, breakouts and catering.
Views of the course and the Lake District from many of our suites.
Easily accessible, just two miles from junction 42 of the M6, and 1.6 miles from Carlisle city centre.
Free on-site parking for delegates and speakers.
Sustainable catering. Our caterers, Levy UK & Ireland, source seasonal British produce.
250 acres of parkland for team activities, fresh air between sessions or outdoor brand moments.
Flexible Cumbria conference spaces
Everything in one place
At Carlisle Racecourse, your entire conference can take place under one roof. Welcome delegates to a keynote session in the Patterson Suite, with panoramic views across the racecourse. Then, divide the suite into smaller spaces for breakouts, use Bell Hall for group sessions, or take discussions to the Executive Boxes for a more intimate setting.
With dedicated spaces for registration, refreshments and networking, the day is guaranteed to flow smoothly. When business is done, bring everyone together at the Patterson Suite bar for drinks or a conference dinner as the sun sets over the stunning Lake District fells.
Share big ideas in an iconic racecourse setting, complete with flexible breakout spaces, bespoke catering and seamless support.
Planning Your Conference
The support you’ll get
When you hire our conference venue at Carlisle Racecourse, a dedicated event manager will shape every part of the event around your programme. They’ll be your key point of contact throughout the planning journey, and stay on hand during the event itself to ensure everything runs seamlessly.
They know the venue inside out, when to split the Patterson Suite, how to use Bell Hall for breakouts or lunch, and where suppliers can load in. They’ll bring that knowledge to every decision about layouts, staging, AV and timings.
Sustainable conference catering
Food for thought
Good catering keeps a conference moving. Start the day with coffee and pastries, then serve working lunches or generous buffets that keep delegates talking. Afternoon refreshments and sweet treats get everyone through the final session.
Our chefs plan seasonal menus, putting British produce and plant-based dishes first and working towards zero waste. Every menu is tailored to your timings, numbers and dietary requirements. For evening events, we can host a drinks reception, sharing menu or scenic three-course dinner.
Looking for the perfect space?
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The Patterson Suite
Our largest room, the Patterson Suite, is situated on the first floor and has capacity for up to 550 delegates. It can be split for more intimate occasions and features a spacious bar area and far-reaching views of the course.
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The Bell Hall
Located on the ground floor of the Main Grandstand, the Bell Hall provides up to 400 delegates with easy access and a full range of buffet options.
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Executive Boxes
Choose a single box or combine several to create a luxurious event space. Executive boxes on the 2nd floor provide stunning views of the course from a private balcony.
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Conference venue hire FAQs
Make an enquiry
To reach our team, please submit an enquiry using the form below, and we will come back to you as soon as possible.