The Famous Trent Building
Choose the iconic Trent Building in Nottingham for your next event, wedding or occasion.
A true architectural gem
Built in 1928, the Trent Building, Nottingham, is an architectural masterpiece, offering breathtaking views over Highfield’s boating lake and an expansive, manicured lawn. An iconic building within Nottingham, its grand façade, elegant courtyard, and period detail set the scene for all kinds of events – whether it’s a conference, formal dinners, weddings or something in between. Plus, with impressive spaces like the Council Room, Senate Chamber, and Great Hall, it’s no wonder the building is also a popular spot for film and media productions.
Uncover the Trent Building history
The Trent Building in Nottingham is a historic gem at the heart of the University of Nottingham’s University Park Campus. Its story began in 1922 when Richard Haldane, 1st Viscount Haldane, laid the foundation stone. Fast forward to 1928, and King George V officially opened the building, which was designed by architect Morley Horder in a striking classical style. With its Portland stone exterior and iconic clock tower, it’s been turning heads ever since!
Before the Trent Building, Nottingham had its University College tucked away on Shakespeare Street in the city centre. Thanks to a generous land donation from Sir Jesse Boot (a.k.a. Lord Trent) in 1921, the university moved to its grand new home. Boot didn’t just want a place for studying—he dreamed of creating a world-class learning hub with open spaces where the people of Nottingham could relax and enjoy.
Over the years, the Trent Building has welcomed some seriously impressive guests, including Albert Einstein, Mahatma Gandhi, and Queen Elizabeth II, to name a few! Today, the Trent Building in Nottingham stands as a proud symbol of the university’s rich history, architectural beauty, and dedication to learning.
Host your next event at the historic Trent Building
Weddings
Full-day wedding services, including licensed civil ceremonies in oak-panelled rooms, formal dining in the Senate Chamber, evening receptions in the Great Hall, and bespoke catering.
Meetings
Meeting and conference spaces, offering flexible room hire such as the Senate Chamber and Council Room, equipped with modern AV technology, professional catering, and dedicated event support.
Conferences
Conferences in magnificent spaces like the Great Hall and Senate Chamber, providing flexible layouts, state-of-the-art AV technology, full catering services, and dedicated event support.
Awards ceremonies
Trent Building hosts grand award ceremonies in the magnificent Great Hall, offering formal gala dining, red-carpet presentation setups, professional stage production, and full bar services.
Gala dinners
High-end gala dinners with gourmet banqueting, bespoke lighting, and full bar amenities, all framed by space for live music, dancing, and unforgettable celebrations.
Product Launches
Elevate your product launch with state-of-the-art presentations in the Senate Chamber, followed by a stylish reception with bespoke catering in the Great Hall.
Private Dining
Host exclusive, intimate dinners in our historic, oak-panelled rooms. Perfect for VIP gatherings or alumni events with tailored gourmet menus.
Banquets
Celebrate on a grand scale in the iconic Great Hall. Ideal for formal dinners and galas, offering bespoke banquet menus and versatile layouts.
Your perfect wedding venue in Nottingham
Celebrate your special day in the heart of the University of Nottingham’s breathtaking 330-acre parkland. When it comes to wedding venues, Nottingham has just what you need at the Trent Building, offering a beautiful and serene setting for your wedding ceremony.
A favourite among alumni, this historic wedding venue combines timeless elegance with modern convenience. Say ‘I do’ in the oak-panelled rooms leading to the magnificent Great Hall, where a civil licence allows you to officially tie the knot. After the ceremony, unwind in the peaceful surroundings of the Senate Chamber for your wedding breakfast. With terraces that extend down to the boating lake, it’s the perfect spot to capture unforgettable moments.
As the sun sets, the Great Hall transforms into a lively celebration space where you and your guests can dance the night away. Our talented chefs will craft bespoke menus tailored to your tastes, while our expert team ensures every detail is handled seamlessly, so you can relax and enjoy every moment of your big day.
Make an impression during your events and conferences
Looking for a place to host your next event? The Trent Building, Nottingham, is set within 330 acres of stunning parkland. This historic Grade II listed venue blends classic elegance with modern amenities, offering a unique and inspiring setting for any occasion.
Whether you’re planning a corporate conference, product launch, gala dinner, or networking event, the Trent Building in Nottingham has a range of versatile spaces to suit your needs. The impressive Great Hall provides a grand backdrop for large-scale gatherings, while the Council Room and Senate Chamber offer more intimate settings for meetings and breakout sessions.
At the Trent Building, your event is more than just a meeting; it’s an experience. Let us help you create a memorable occasion in a truly iconic setting.
Celebrate in style
Celebrate life’s special moments in the iconic Trent Building at the University of Nottingham. With its grand architecture, elegant interiors, and stunning views across 330 acres of landscaped parkland, it’s the perfect setting for any occasion.
Whether you’re hosting a milestone birthday, anniversary, graduation party, or want to experience one of the luxury wedding venues Nottingham has to offer, the Trent Building has a range of beautiful spaces to suit your celebration. From the historic oak-panelled rooms to the impressive Great Hall, each space provides a unique and stylish backdrop.
Our expert team is on hand to bring your vision to life, offering bespoke menus crafted by our talented chefs and seamless service to ensure every detail is perfect.
What our guests say
Rooms and capacities
Traditionally furnished to a high standard, the Committee Room is an ideal location for a small lunch or dinner for up to 60 guests or a drinks reception using the foyer for up to 60 guests.
Capacities: Boardroom (25) Classroom (25)
Traditionally furnished to a high standard, the Council Room is an ideal location for a small lunch or dinner for up to 60 guests or a drinks reception using the foyer for up to 60 guests.
Capacities: Boardroom (18) Reception (50) Dining (50)
The Great Hall is a large spacious area steeped in history. It includes a stage, a bar and fully integrated AV facilities.
Capacities: Theatre (250) Reception (200) Dining (180) Fork Buffet (150)
Located downstairs with doors opening out onto the lawn, the Senate Chamber is beautifully furnished and suitable for a large seated dinner for up to 150 or buffet for 200 guests.
Capacities: Theatre (200) Boardroom (60) Classroom (46) Reception (200) Dining (160)
Frequently asked questions
Our beautiful, Grade II-listed building allows you to celebrate your special day in comfort and style. Combining timeless elegance with modern convenience, our venue is tailored to your perfect day, with a team of chefs ready to craft a bespoke menu just for you and your guests to enjoy while drinking in the beautiful scenery. Contact our wedding team to find out how we can make your day perfect.
We want your big day to be special, and what is more special than saying your “I do’s” in a historic venue? The Trent Building offers timeless beauty in every room, giving your wedding a unique atmosphere and character. The grand architecture and natural beauty of the parkland and boating lake are perfect for stunning photo ops, truly making it a day to remember.
Yes! When the evening falls, our Great Hall in the Trent Building turns into a place to drink, dance and celebrate with bespoke menus that our chefs have crafted to fit your tastes.
Yes! Our historic venues are also a great place to hold a conference. Providing a more comfortable environment than modern venues, giving your team an experience they wont forget.
Interested in booking the Trent Building in Nottingham?
No matter the occasion, the Trent Building in Nottingham is a place where you can gather, celebrate, and create lasting memories in a truly exceptional setting. Get in touch with our venue team to discuss your event needs.