--- title: Comparing Residential and Non-Residential Conference Centres description: Choosing between residential & non-residential conference venues? Insights from St Catherine's College Oxford to make the right decision for your event. image: https://www.catzconferences.com/hubfs/st%20catherines%20conference%20how%20to%20save%20money%20and%20time.jpg --- [![st catherines college conferences logo](https://www.catzconferences.com/hs-fs/hubfs/brand/st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png?width=250&height=109&name=st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png "st catherines college conferences logo")](https://www.catzconferences.com) - [Conferences](https://www.catzconferences.com/conferences) - [Venues](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues) - [The Quad Suites](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-quad-suites) - [Junior Common Room](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-junior-common-room) - [The Mary Sunley Suite](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-mary-sunley-building) - [The Arumugam Building](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-arumugam-building) - [Riverside Lecture Theatre](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/riverside-lecture-theatre) - [Facilities](https://www.catzconferences.com/facilities) - [Architects and Design Packages](https://www.catzconferences.com/architects-and-design-packages) - [Architecture & History](https://www.catzconferences.com/architecture-history) - [2024 Projects](https://www.catzconferences.com/construction-projects) - [Our History Timeline](https://www.catzconferences.com/timeline) - [Stay](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us) - [Accommodation](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/accommodation) - [Dining](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/dining) - [Resources](https://www.catzconferences.com/resources) - [Blog](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog) - [Contact](https://www.catzconferences.com/contact) - [Our Team](https://www.catzconferences.com/our-team) [![st catherines college conferences logo](https://www.catzconferences.com/hs-fs/hubfs/brand/st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png?width=250&height=109&name=st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png "st catherines college conferences logo")](https://www.catzconferences.com) [![st catherines college conferences logo](https://www.catzconferences.com/hs-fs/hubfs/brand/st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png?width=250&height=109&name=st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png "st catherines college conferences logo")](https://www.catzconferences.com) - [Conferences](https://www.catzconferences.com/conferences) - [Venues](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues) - [The Quad Suites](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-quad-suites) - [Junior Common Room](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-junior-common-room) - [The Mary Sunley Suite](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-mary-sunley-building) - [The Arumugam Building](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-arumugam-building) - [Riverside Lecture Theatre](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/riverside-lecture-theatre) - [Facilities](https://www.catzconferences.com/facilities) - [Architects and Design Packages](https://www.catzconferences.com/architects-and-design-packages) - [Architecture & History](https://www.catzconferences.com/architecture-history) - [2024 Projects](https://www.catzconferences.com/construction-projects) - [Our History Timeline](https://www.catzconferences.com/timeline) - [Stay](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us) - [Accommodation](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/accommodation) - [Dining](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/dining) - [Resources](https://www.catzconferences.com/resources) - [Blog](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog) - [Contact](https://www.catzconferences.com/contact) - [Our Team](https://www.catzconferences.com/our-team) [![st catherines college conferences logo](https://www.catzconferences.com/hs-fs/hubfs/brand/st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png?width=250&height=109&name=st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png "st catherines college conferences logo")](https://www.catzconferences.com) - [Conferences](https://www.catzconferences.com/conferences) - [Venues](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues) - [The Quad Suites](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-quad-suites) - [Junior Common Room](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-junior-common-room) - [The Mary Sunley Suite](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-mary-sunley-building) - [The Arumugam Building](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-arumugam-building) - [Riverside Lecture Theatre](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/riverside-lecture-theatre) - [Facilities](https://www.catzconferences.com/facilities) - [Architects and Design Packages](https://www.catzconferences.com/architects-and-design-packages) - [Architecture & History](https://www.catzconferences.com/architecture-history) - [2024 Projects](https://www.catzconferences.com/construction-projects) - [Our History Timeline](https://www.catzconferences.com/timeline) - [Stay](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us) - [Accommodation](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/accommodation) - [Dining](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/dining) - [Resources](https://www.catzconferences.com/resources) - [Blog](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog) - [Contact](https://www.catzconferences.com/contact) - [Our Team](https://www.catzconferences.com/our-team) ## ![Bernard Sunley Room A-1](https://www.catzconferences.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Bernard%20Sunley%20Room%20A-1.jpg?width=500&height=330&name=Bernard%20Sunley%20Room%20A-1.jpg) A range of flexible meeting spaces in which to host your event St Catherine’s has a wide range of meeting facilities, offering flexibility for various different types of event. - [Venues](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues) - [The Quad Suites](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-quad-suites) - [Junior Common Room](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-junior-common-room) - [The Mary Sunley Suite](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-mary-sunley-building) - [The Arumugam Building](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-arumugam-building) - [Riverside Lecture Theatre](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/riverside-lecture-theatre) - [Facilities](https://www.catzconferences.com/facilities) - [Architects and Design Packages](https://www.catzconferences.com/architects-and-design-packages) - [Architecture & History](https://www.catzconferences.com/architecture-history) - [2024 Projects](https://www.catzconferences.com/construction-projects) - [Our History Timeline](https://www.catzconferences.com/timeline) ## ![st catherines college conferences header](https://www.catzconferences.com/hs-fs/hubfs/st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20header.jpg?width=500&height=253&name=st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20header.jpg) A range of flexible meeting spaces in which to host your event Popular accommodation in Oxford. Bed down for the night between conferences, having explored local attractions both beautiful and historic. - [Stay With Us](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us) - [Accommodation](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/accommodation) - [Dining](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/dining) # Comparing Residential and Non-Residential Conference Centres By [Belinda Gardner](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/author/belinda-gardner) 10/9/23, 5:05 AM 2 Minutes Read So you're organising a conference and need a venue. Your first decision is invariably: residential or non-residential? Both serve a purpose, and while they might seem interchangeable, they cater to different needs and audiences. With that in mind, how do you choose which one is right for your event? Here’s some insight from St Catherine's College Oxford conference facilities. ## Residential Conference Centres: Home from Home One of the most obvious features of a residential conference centre is that it offers [accommodation](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/accommodation). This means attendees can stay on-site, eliminating the need to commute. This is especially beneficial for longer conferences or those located in remote areas. ### All-Inclusive Experience [At venues like St Catherine's College Oxford](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues), not only is accommodation provided, but meals and other facilities too. All-inclusive offers attendees a complete experience, freeing them from meal planning or finding dining options in an unfamiliar city. ### Networking Opportunities With attendees staying on-site, there are increased chances for networking. These come courtesy of evening discussions and/or social activities. All these options can lead to valuable connections. Cost: While the inclusive nature of residential centres is a plus, it can mean a higher cost per head. You always need to factor in [accommodation](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/accommodation) and catering expenses, which can inflate your budget. ### Non-Residential Conference Centres: Flexible and Straightforward ### No Accommodation As the name implies, these venues do not offer overnight stays. Attendees must find their own accommodation, which can prove a drawback if the centre is not close to hotels or in a city that’s particularly expensive. ### Focused Sessions Without the distractions of finding somewhere to stay, non-residential centres often provide a more concentrated conference experience. Attendees arrive, engage in the [conference](https://www.catzconferences.com/conferences), and leave… making the day's events more direct and to the point. ### Cost-Effective Generally, without the added expenses of accommodation and meals, non-residential venues can be more affordable. This can be beneficial for shorter conferences or for those on a tighter budget. ### How to Choose? ### Event Duration For conferences lasting more than a day, a residential centre may be more convenient. It takes away the hassle of commuting and provides a self-contained more immersive experience. ### Budget Constraints If you're working within a tight budget, a non-residential venue might be a more cost-effective option. However, remember to factor in those expenses attendees might incur for meals and accommodation. ### Audience If your attendees are local, a non-residential centre might be preferable. But for an international or out-of-town audience, the convenience of a residential centre can be a big advantage. ### Networking Goals If fostering connections among attendees is important, the close-knit environment of a residential centre is more beneficial. ### Event Ambience The environment you want to create also matters. Residential centres often provide a more relaxed atmosphere, better suited to discussions and brainstorming. Non-residential venues might be more business-like and focused. Both residential and non-residential conference centres have their pros and cons. [At St Catherine's College Oxford](https://www.catzconferences.com/), we offer a wide range of conference services suitable for all numbers and budgets. Your final decision should hinge on the specific needs and objectives of your event. Whichever you choose, ensure you make the most of the unique strengths of the venue to deliver an impactful, memorable and enjoyable conference. ### [Explore Accommodation options here](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/accommodation) or [contact our conference team](https://www.catzconferences.com/contact) to discuss your requirements. ## Recommended For You [![Catherine’s experience our unique atmosphere and excellent facilities firsthand](https://www.catzconferences.com/hubfs/Making-Your-Conference-Stand-Out-With-Unique-Conference-Room-Hire%20(1).jpg)](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/making-your-conference-stand-out-with-unique-conference-room-hire) 2 Min Read ### [Making Your Conference Stand Out With Unique Conference Room Hire](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/making-your-conference-stand-out-with-unique-conference-room-hire) [![Picture of Belinda Gardner](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/c7adfe98cc047452eaede7fb0c317044) Belinda Gardner 6/23/23, 9:28 AM](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/author/belinda-gardner) [![Know Your History: Who Was Arne Jacobsen?](https://www.catzconferences.com/hubfs/Jacobsen-Bedroom-Furniture-e1479126261318-1430x440%20%281%29.jpg)](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/know-your-history-who-was-arne-jacobsen) 2 Min Read ### [Know Your History: Who Was Arne Jacobsen?](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/know-your-history-who-was-arne-jacobsen) [![Picture of Belinda Gardner](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/c7adfe98cc047452eaede7fb0c317044) Belinda Gardner 11/17/23, 1:15 PM](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/author/belinda-gardner) [![](https://www.catzconferences.com/hubfs/bedrooms-vip.jpg)](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/st.-catherines-college-vip-guest-rooms) 2 Min Read ### [St. Catherine's College VIP Guest Rooms](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/st.-catherines-college-vip-guest-rooms) [![Picture of Belinda Gardner](https://app.hubspot.com/settings/avatar/c7adfe98cc047452eaede7fb0c317044) Belinda Gardner 1/22/24, 6:29 AM](https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/author/belinda-gardner) ![StCatz_White](https://www.catzconferences.com/hs-fs/hubfs/brand/StCatz_White.png?width=300&height=154&name=StCatz_White.png) St Catherine's College, Manor Road, Oxford, OX1 3UJ Call: 01865 281194 / 01865 271717 | Email: [catz.conferences@stcatz.ox.ac.uk](mailto:catz.conferences@stcatz.ox.ac.uk) © St Catherine's College 2025 | [Terms & Conditions](https://www.catzconferences.com/terms-conditions) | [Cookie Policy](https://www.catzconferences.com/cookie-policy) If you are interested in finding out more about St Catherine’s College Conferences and receiving information on special offers and discounts, please sign up for our newsletter/mailing list below (note: any mailing we do undertake is limited and you can unsubscribe at any time) - [Venues Overview](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues) - [Junior Common Room](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-junior-common-room) - [The Arumugam Building](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-arumugam-building) - [The Mary Sunley Suite](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-mary-sunley-building) - [The Quad Suites](https://www.catzconferences.com/venues/the-quad-suites) - [Stay With Us](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us) - [Our Team](https://www.catzconferences.com/our-team) - [Visit Oxford](https://www.catzconferences.com/visit-oxford) - [Accommodation](https://www.catzconferences.com/stay-with-us/accommodation) - [Make A Booking](https://www.catzconferences.com/contact) © St Catherine's College 2023 [Terms & Conditions](https://www.catzconferences.com/terms-conditions) | [Cookie Policy](https://www.catzconferences.com/cookie-policy) ```json { "@context" : "https://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Belinda Gardner", "url" : "https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/author/belinda-gardner" }, "dateModified" : "2025-11-06T13:40:14.456Z", "datePublished" : "2023-10-09T09:05:01.000Z", "headline" : "Comparing Residential and Non-Residential Conference Centres", "image" : [ "https://www.catzconferences.com/hubfs/st%20catherines%20conference%20how%20to%20save%20money%20and%20time.jpg" ], "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://www.catzconferences.com/blog/comparing-residential-and-non-residential-conference-centres", "@type" : "WebPage" }, "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "https://www.catzconferences.com/hubfs/brand/st%20catherines%20college%20conferences%20logo.png" } } } ```