Walker Fraser Steele wanted a conference and team building venue ‘worthy of remembrance’ that could comfortably accommodate more than 45 people so they chose Winton Castle.
Walker Fraser Steele is one of the oldest firms of chartered surveyors in Scotland, based in Glasgow in 1884. The practice, along with e.surv, is now part of LSL Property Services plc.
They provide Home Reports, Mortgage Valuations, Energy Reports and property risk advice to Scottish homeowners and UK lenders.
Scott Jack from Walker Fraser Steele, who planned the event, said:
“With guests arriving from all over Scotland, the North of England and even Wales we needed a venue close to transport links so Winton was a great choice as it is just off the A1 and Edinburgh City Bypass.
“As surveyors we also love unusual and unique buildings so having the opportunity to explore the estate grounds and castle worked well and stimulated great conversation.
“Our guests included surveyors, technical experts and management. The purpose of the event was firstly an opportunity to get together as a team as the majority of us work remotely.
“Secondly, it was to provide the delegates with business updates from our parent company’s perspective and locally to Scotland. We also carried out technical updates and reviewed case studies.
“Lastly, we wanted to have some fun and so exploring the castle and grounds during the treasure hunt was ideal.”
What Was the Feedback from your Guests?
“The feedback on the venue was excellent with everyone enjoying the hospitality and the opportunity to have a wander round and explore a beautiful historic building,” Scott Jack continues. “We were all well catered for with an abundance of tea, coffee and cakes (I’m a coffee drinker but apparently it was a cracking cup of tea!). The breakfast rolls and lunch were a big hit too.
“What most attendees seemed to enjoy the most was the time spent with Francis Ogilvy who took us round some of the castle, explaining the Winton history and bringing it to life.
“He was relaxed and engaging and several surveyors said ‘they could have listened to him all day’ so that was fantastic to hear.”
How would you describe Winton’s ambience?
“Warm and cosy was one description which I wouldn’t have thought of when describing a castle, but it was!
“Having the open fires burning was a nice touch. The ability to spread out amongst the formal rooms but having the Octagon room as the hub serving tea and coffee drew people back to chat.”
You can learn more about conferences and meetings, corporate away days and team building events at Winton Castle here.
