Are you looking to inspire your team with an incentive trip they will cherish for a lifetime? 

The UK offers stunning destinations with unique activities and excursions that you should consider in 2025.  

Current incentive travel trends suggest a growing emphasis on experiential rewards, sustainable travel, and memorable cultural experiences. From remote countryside retreats to historic castles and city escapes, the UK boasts an abundance of incentive travel opportunities suited to any team’s preferences, while keeping your company aligned with the latest travel trends and organisational goals.  

The Extraordinary Britain team are experts at event planning and would like to share with you which destinations stand out and why you should consider them for your next incentive trip. 

MANCHESTER: A DYNAMIC INCENTIVE TRAVEL DESTINATION

Manchester: Top Incentive Travel Destinations in the UK

Located in the vibrant heart of North West England, Manchester is a city that seamlessly blends rich industrial heritage with modern innovation. Easily accessible from both Europe and the United States, Manchester boasts its own international airport (Manchester Airport, MAN), offering direct flights to and from major global cities. Additionally, the city is well-connected by train, with London just a two-hour journey away. 

Famed worldwide for its influential music scene, iconic football clubs (Manchester United and Manchester City), and pioneering contributions to the textile industry during the Industrial Revolution, Manchester is a city of energy and creativity. It offers an ideal backdrop for incentive travel, combining cultural depth, modern amenities, and a dynamic spirit that will inspire and engage your team. 

PRIVATE DINING IN MANCHESTER

Fine dining is a key part of any incentive trip, and Manchester has a fantastic selection of venues: 

  • 20 Stories: Perched high above Manchester, 20 Stories offers panoramic views of the city, along with contemporary British cuisine and an impressive cocktail selection, ideal for a memorable evening. Its private dining room accommodates up to 18 guests, while areas within the main restaurant can host groups of up to 60. For more exclusive gatherings, the impressive rooftop terrace provides a vibrant setting with panoramic city views. Additionally, the entire venue is also available for exclusive hire, accommodating up to 600 guests—perfect for show-stopping incentive events.
  • Tast: This Catalonian restaurant, co-owned by famed chef Paco Pérez, offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience, within three different floors, each available for exclusive hire, accommodating up to a total of 70 guests. Its top floor is a cozy, intimate space equipped with two smart TVs and a wine cellar—ideal for business lunches, exclusive wine tastings, or small-scale events. Tast is the perfect combination of authentic Catalan flavours and a professional setting, making it a smart choice for meetings and events. 

INTERACTIVE WALKING TOUR OF MANCHESTER’S TEXTILE INDUSTRY

Manchester played a crucial role in the textile boom of the Industrial Revolution, earning its nickname, “Cottonopolis.” Aninteractive walking tour of the city’s historical textile industry typically allows teams to: 

  • Explore former mills and warehouses transformed into creative hubs. 
  • Learn about Manchester’s influence on global trade and innovation. 
  • Engage in hands-on activities, such as fabric weaving demonstrations. 

This immersive experience offers a fascinating perspective on how the city shaped the modern world while inspiring teams withstories of resilience and ingenuity. The experts at Extraordinary Britain recommend tours like the Manchester Textile Tour, as it’s a great way to understand the city’s history and cultural roots while breaking the day up with an intriguing activity.  

LONDON: A WORLD-CLASS INCENTIVE TRAVEL DESTINATION 

London: Top Incentive Travel Destination in the UK

Located in the southeast of England, London is exceptionally well-connected, with six international airports—including Heathrow (LHR), one of the busiest in the world—alongside an extensive rail network linking the city to Europe via the Eurostar and fast connections to major UK cities. 

As one of the world’s most iconic cities, famed for its historic landmarks such as the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben, as well as its vibrant arts, culinary, and shopping scenes, London provides a dynamic setting for incentive travel. It offers countless opportunities for bespoke experiences, from luxury dining and world-class entertainment to unique team-building activities.  

PRIVATE DINING AT ICONIC VENUES

Being the home to some of the most prestigious dining establishments makes London the appropriate location to allocatetime for fine dining in your programmes.  

  • Sketch: for a creative and unconventional experience, Sketch provides private dining in its eclectic and artistic spaces. Located in Mayfair, its three-Michelin star restaurant offers a unique blend of gastronomy and design.
  • Searcys, at the Gherkin: Nestled high above the city in one of London’s most recognizable and iconic skyscrapers, Searcys offers private dining with panoramic views. The flexible spaces located on the top three floors are ideal for small meetings and conferences, private dining and drinks receptions, and large celebratory events. With its stunning glass dome roof, this unique event space is sure to impress from every angle, adding a spectacular touch to any incentive itinerary.
  • The Ivy: A true London institution, The Ivy offers a blend of timeless elegance and modern sophistication. Its private dining spaces are perfect for both small gatherings and larger events, combining exquisite British cuisine with impeccable service. With several Ivy Collection locations across the city, it offers versatility and charm, whether for a business lunch, celebratory dinner, or exclusive networking event. 

EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES IN LONDON

London hosts an endless range of exclusive experiences that will impress and inspire those who participate. Treat your team to a private viewing of the Crown Jewels and meet the Crown Jeweller for insight into the history and life at the Tower of London. For the creatives, consider a behind-the-scenes tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, or for the sport’s enthusiasts, take a private tour of your favourite London stadiums – like Wembley Stadium or Wimbledon.  

EDINBURGH: A CAPTIVATING DESTINATION FOR INCENTIVE TRIPS

Edinburgh: Top Incentive Travel Destinations in the UK

Nestled in the heart of Scotland, Edinburgh is easily accessible with its own international airport, providing direct flights to and from major European cities and beyond. Edinburgh also boasts excellent rail links, with regular services to London and other key cities across the UK. 

It is a city that captivates the soul with its medieval charm, stunning landscapes, and rich history that embellishes its architecture. And whether you are seeking elegant venues or adrenaline-fueled adventures, Edinburgh is sure to leave a lasting impression.  

FOOD WALKING TOUR IN EDINBURGH’S OLD AND NEW TOWN 

Scotland’s culinary scene has evolved dramatically, and there’s no better way to experience it than through a guided food walking tour. Participants can: 

  • Visit top eateries and hidden gems in the historic Old and New Towns. 
  • Sample local specialities such as haggis, smoked salmon, and artisan cheeses. 
  • Enjoy whisky and gin tastings at iconic Edinburgh distilleries like Holyrood Distillery and Johnnie Walker Princes St. 

 This tour offers an authentic taste of Scotland while providing opportunities for team bonding. Check out our showcase page for Scotland, where we created a detailed itinerary that includes optional extras such as whisky tastings and exclusive food tours. 

PALACE OF HOLYROOD HOUSE AND EDINBURGH CASTLE

Edinburgh’s history comes to life with visits to two of its most iconic landmarks. Tour the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, The Palace of Holyrood House. This stunning palace offers a glimpse into royal life and historic events.  

Furthermore, Edinburgh Castle is an infamous Scottish landmark that is perched on Castle Rock. This fortress provides breathtaking views of the city and showcases Scotland’s turbulent past, from battles to royal dramas. These landmarks are paramount to every visit to Edinburgh and are sure to amaze any incentive or corporate traveller.  

TAKE A DAY TRIP TO ST. ANDREWS

For teams looking to venture beyond the city, consider a day trip to St Andrews where sporting triumph and historical significance take the stand.  

St Andrews is known as the “home of golf” and formed in 1754, this picturesque town offers championship golf courses, historic ruins, and stunning coastal views. Consider the preferences of your team as perhaps you have some golf-loving participants that would truly cherish a trip to St Andrews. 

DUBLIN: THE LIVELY INCENTIVE TRAVEL DESTINATION

Dublin: Top Incentive Travel Destination in the UK

Dublin is a city brimming with character and energy, that makes it a fantastic choice for incentive travel. Known for its creative spirit, Dublin boasts a thriving arts and music scene, as well as a rich history that stretches from Viking roots to modern-day innovation.  

The city is well-connected through Dublin Airport, with direct flights from major cities worldwide, and it is easily navigated with a range of public transport options.  

Dublin is a city where teams can unwind while immersing themselves in traditional Irish experiences and revel in the distinctive architecture of the city. 

PRIVATE LUNCH WITH WHISKEY TASTINGS AT TEELING DISTILLERY 

Dublin is home to some of the world’s finest whiskey, and Teeling Distillery offers an exclusive experience that includes:  

  • A guided tour of the distillery.
  • A private lunch with curated food pairings in one of Teeling’s selections of private dining rooms. 
  • Whiskey tastings featuring Teeling’s award-winning selections; with some tours allowing for guests to fill their own bottle with Teeling Whiskey to take home.

This immersive session provides insight into Dublin’s whiskey heritage while allowing teams to enjoy a premium tasting experience. 

THE CAIRNGORMS: SCOTLAND’S WILD AND MAJESTIC HIGHLANDS

Cairngorms: Top Incentive Travel Destination in the UK

The Cairngorms, located in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, offer an awe-inspiring landscape that combines rugged mountains, tranquil lochs, and expansive forests. As one of the largest national parks in the UK, this stunning region provides a truly unique backdrop for incentive travel, where nature’s beauty meets adventure and relaxation. 

Accessible by car, the Cairngorms can be reached from major Scottish cities like Edinburgh and Inverness, with the latter offering a regional airport for direct flights from the UK. The region’s charm lies in its ability to transport visitors into a world of dramatic landscapes, rich wildlife, and traditional Scottish heritage. 

The River Spey, famous for both its whiskey and scenic beauty, offers an unforgettable experience where teams can paddle through stunning landscapes on a guided kayaking tour and stop at riverside distilleries for exclusive whiskey tastings. This activity can significantly promote a more unified workforce while giving your team a chance at adventure. 

Moreover, Scotland boasts a wealth of Castles that make for an ideal location for incentive and corporate travellers. Combine fun, culture, and exclusivity, and host a gala dinner and Highland Games experience at a Scottish castle. Include activities such as caber tossing, tug-of-war, and archery, and end the day with a celebratory gala dinner featuring fine Scottish cuisine, bagpipes, and a ceilidh dance.  

Alternatively, take the Kings and Castles Tour along Royal Deeside. On this tour you can expect a tour of Balmoral Castle, and other historic estates, while being offered insights into Scotland’s aristocratic history and traditions.  

FINAL THOUGHTS

Incentive travel is about creating unforgettable moments that inspire, reward, and strengthen teams. From the urban energy of Manchester and Dublin to the historic charm of Edinburgh and the wild beauty of the Cairngorms, the UK offers destinations of endless incentive opportunities. Whether your team seeks fine dining, cultural immersion, adventure, or exclusive VIP experiences, these destinations provide the perfect backdrop for an extraordinary incentive program in 2025. 

For expert guidance in planning your next incentive trip, get in contact with the team at Extraordinary Britain. We specialise in creating tailor-made corporate travel experiences that work to your preferences, meet organisational targets, and importantly, leave a lasting impact.