By the Events Team at Burnham Beeches Hotel

The words "team building day" can spark everything from excitement to eye-rolls — and the truth is, it all depends on how it’s done. Get it right, and you’ve got a team that’s more connected, more energised and more aligned than ever. Get it wrong, and you’re left with a roomful of people wondering how long until the lunch break.

At Burnham Beeches, we’ve helped organisations of all shapes and sizes plan standout team building days. And whether it’s a high-performing leadership group or a newly-formed department still learning names, we’ve noticed a few common ingredients that make the difference.

Here’s what we believe goes into a perfect team building day — plus some tips on how to make it work for your business- Start with Your Why

Before you pick an activity, get clear on what you’re trying to achieve. Do you want to improve communication? Build trust? Celebrate success? Or simply get everyone out of the office for some much-needed fun?

Top tip: Share this intention with your event planner and agency partners. It gives everyone a clear direction and helps shape the day around your team, not just a trending theme.

 Balance Structure with Flexibility

A packed agenda can look impressive on paper — but people need space to connect naturally. The most effective days strike a balance between guided experiences and time to chat, reflect or simply enjoy the setting.

Top tip: Build in moments that feel informal — a walk through the grounds, coffee on the terrace, a debrief over drinks. That’s where the real conversations often happen.

Make It Inclusive

Not everyone wants to climb ropes or solve puzzles under pressure. A great team day offers something for everyone — physical, creative, cerebral, collaborative — so that every personality type can shine.

Top tip: Don’t be afraid to mix and match. At Burnham Beeches, we often blend activities- strategy games and wellbeing workshops — so there's variety without forcing people too far out of their comfort zone. Location, Location, Location

Where your event happens matters more than most people think. A good setting can take people out of “work mode” and help them relax, recharge and relate to each other differently.

Top tip: Look for a venue with character, space and great hospitality. At Burnham Beeches, our historic house, woodland setting and thoughtfully designed interiors give teams the headspace to think differently — without straying too far from the office.

Keep the Follow-Up in Mind

The best team building days don’t end at 5pm. If you want to see a return on the investment — whether that’s improved culture or better collaboration — think about how you’ll carry the momentum forward.

Top tip: Build in a short reflective session at the end of the day or ask your facilitators for a simple follow-up plan. Our partner agencies are great at creating next steps that keep the experience alive back at work.

How We Can Help

At Burnham Beeches, we specialise in tailored team days that go beyond the usual. We work with some of the UK’s best creative agencies and facilitators to design events that support your goals — not just fill a diary slot.

From fully hosted days to space hire with support, we offer:

• A dedicated event planner to guide you
• Expert agency partners in team building, coaching and experience design
• Flexible indoor and outdoor spaces
• Bespoke catering and wellness options
• Accommodation for overnight retreats
• A beautiful, peaceful setting just 40 minutes from London