Why Smart Event Planners, Are Choosing Rural Spaces

As ESG targets tighten and investor scrutiny sharpens, corporate event planners are being asked to do more with less — without compromising impact. But what if the solution lies not in scaling back, but in stepping out? 

Rural venues across Britain are emerging as powerful allies in the quest for meaningful, cost-effective events.

 These spaces offer more than affordability; they support farmers’ revenue, safeguard estate continuity, and align beautifully with sustainability goals. Choosing the countryside isn’t just a budget decision — it’s a strategic move that reflects values, drives regeneration, and delivers unforgettable experiences.

The Countryside Is Calling: A New Era for Corporate Event

1. EPISODE 2

“From City Lights to Country Nights”

…Interview with Event Booker Monica Smart

In Conversation: Monica Smart on Breaking the Rural Booking Barrier.

 This weeks podcast episode features Monica Smart, founder of Monica Smart Events, who’s been at the forefront of rural event planning for over a decade. We dive into the misconceptions that keep corporates tethered to city venues — and why it’s time to break free. Monica shares practical tips for planning seamless countryside events, from transport logistics to tech setups, and explains how rural spaces can actually enhance brand storytelling and ESG alignment. If you’ve ever wondered whether “outside the city” means “outside your comfort zone,” this episode will change your mind.

2. Octopus Electric Vehicles Choose Rural Spaces for Events

In a bold move that fused sustainability with experiential engagement, Octopus Electric Vehicles hosted a dynamic corporate event at Loseley Park — a historic countryside estate in Surrey. Over 100 electric vehicles were available for test drives, giving attendees a hands-on introduction to Octopus’s salary sacrifice scheme. The rural setting offered more than just scenic charm; it created space for meaningful conversations, relaxed networking, and a powerful alignment between brand values and environment. It’s a shining example of how countryside venues can elevate corporate events from transactional to transformational

Industry Insight: Budget Pressures Reshape UK Events in 2026

As we look ahead to 2026, both government and corporate event budgets across the UK are tightening—driven by zero-based budgeting, rising operational costs, and a renewed focus on financial discipline. But with challenge comes opportunity. This shift is prompting planners to seek venues that deliver impact without excess.

In this issue, we explore how countryside venues like those in the Country Space portfolio are perfectly positioned to meet the moment: offering sustainable, cost-effective alternatives that align with corporate responsibility goals. Discover how rural regeneration and budget-conscious planning can go hand in hand.