Conference 2025 – Logistics

Dates

Tues 24th, Weds 25th and Thurs 26th June

We encourage you to attend the full conference, however shorter tickets are available.

Location

This year, the NRTF Conference is taking place in Newbury, Berkshire.

The conference will be based at the following locations:

(Back to top)

Ticket bookings are now closed

Thanks to everyone who has booked to come to our annual conference next week in Newbury. Bookings are now closed for this year’s event.

Check back here soon for updates, including social stories, easy read schedules and full programme details.

(Back to top)

Access

A Relaxed Conference Experience

At the National Rural Touring Forum Conference, we are committed to creating a welcoming and accessible environment for all. That’s why we proudly host a relaxed conference—a space where everyone can participate in a way that feels comfortable and supportive.

What does a ‘relaxed conference’ mean?

A relaxed conference adapts some of the formalities and expectations typically associated with professional events. Inspired by the principles of relaxed performances in theatre, this approach is designed to support neurodivergent people, those with sensory or mental health needs, and anyone who may benefit from a more flexible, gentle event format.

Here’s what that means in practice:

  • Freedom to move: You’re welcome to come and go from sessions as needed. Stand, sit, stretch, pace—whatever helps you stay present and comfortable.
  • No expectation of silence: We understand that people express themselves in different ways, and you won’t be asked to stay silent or still during sessions.
  • Quiet spaces: There are dedicated quiet areas throughout the venues for anyone needing time away from the crowd to rest, reflect, or reset.
  • Clear signage & information: Signage and social stories are available to help you navigate the conference venues with confidence.
  • Supportive staff: Our team, easily identifiable by their lanyards, are here to help with any questions, needs or adjustments—please don’t hesitate to ask.
  • Sensory considerations: We aim to minimise overwhelming stimuli. Where possible, lighting and sound levels are moderated, and we flag sessions that may be more stimulating.

We believe that access and wellbeing go hand in hand. By taking a relaxed approach, we hope to create a space where everyone feels safe, included, and empowered to engage fully – however that looks for you.

​When you purchase your ticket, there is a space in the booking form for you to let us know your access requirements. If there is something you feel we have missed that would enable you to attend, please let us know. 

Please let us know by 30th May if you require a British Sign Language Interpreter at the Conference, so that we have time to book someone in.

​If you want to talk to someone directly about your access requirements, please contact Sarah on ev****@******rg.uk

(Back to top)

Easy Read Guides

The following guides will be available before the conference, we will add links over the coming months when they are ready for you. 

Social Story for Donnington Grove

Social Story for 101 Outdoor Arts

Conference Programme easy read schedule

 

(Back to top)

Accommodation

The accommodation is in the Donnington Grove Hotel, Grove Road, Newbury, RG14 2LA and Chequers Hotel 6 – 8 Oxford Street, Newbury, Berkshire, RG14 1JB

We are encouraging room sharing at Donnington Grove as we are restricted to 40 rooms. If you are coming with someone and comfortable sharing a room, please choose this option when purchasing your ticket to unlock a discounted ticket price.

If you require an accessible room or have any specific access requirements around your accommodation, please let us know.

(Back to top)

Travel and Parking

The nearest train station is Newbury, which is a:

  • 10 minute drive from Donnington Grove Hotel.
  • 7 minute drive from Chequers Hotel
  • 11 minute drive from 101 Outdoor Arts

Parking for the accommodation and conference is available on site.

Travel between the hotels and 101 Outdoor Arts will be provided by NRTF, however you will need to organise your own travel from the train station if arriving by public transport.

We will be asking delegates about car sharing opportunities in the coming days. 

(Back to top)