Your conference registration includes attendance at our drinks reception, Warwick Castle excursion and banquet dinner.

Drinks Reception

On Tuesday 15 July, we will host our conference drinks reception at The Exchange in Birmingham City Centre from 18:00.

The Exchange is a historic building originally constructed in 1933 as the headquarters of the Birmingham Municipal Bank. Designed by architect Thomas Cecil Howitt, the building reflects neoclassical architecture with grand columns and elegant interiors. It played a key role in the financial life of the city during the 20th century. After years of disuse, the University of Birmingham acquired and renovated it, reopening it in 2021 as a hub for civic engagement, exhibitions, and collaboration between academia and the public.

The reception will include free alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Excursion & Banquet Dinner

On Thursday 17 July, we will host an excursion and banquet dinner at Warwick Castle. Coaches will leave the conference venue to the Castle at 16:00, arriving at approximately 16:45, and arrive back at the venu at approximately 23:15.

Warwick Castle was originally built by William the Conqueror in 1068 as a wooden motte-and-bailey fort and later rebuilt in stone during the 12th century. It evolved into a formidable medieval stronghold and played key roles in several conflicts, including the Wars of the Roses. The castle became the seat of the powerful Beauchamp family, with Richard Neville—known as "Warwick the Kingmaker"—emerging as a pivotal figure in 15th-century English politics. During the Tudor and Stuart periods, the castle shifted from military use to more domestic purposes, though it still functioned as a prison in times of unrest. It was held by Parliamentarians during the English Civil War and later transformed into a stately home under the Greville family, who became the Earls of Warwick in the 18th century. In the 20th century, the castle was sold and eventually developed into a major tourist attraction.

The excursion will include a private tour of the Castle, a drinks reception and a three-course conference dinner. At the drinks reception, guests will receive an arrival glass of prosecco or soft drink, and other drinks can be purchased from the bar -- though tea, coffee and water will be available throughout the evening.