Event spaces for hire


Book a room at our National Park Centres

Danby Lodge and Sutton Bank are enjoyed by thousands of people each year, but did you know you could host an event there too? We offer flexible spaces available for hire, ideal for meetings, training sessions, outdoor experiences, celebrations and other private events.

Our bookable rooms are equipped with modern facilities and can accommodate a range of group sizes and seating formats.

Hire options at Danby
Dark Skies Station

A brand new stargazing observatory at Danby Lodge. Located within the middle of the grounds, it's not just designed with stargazing in mind, there's a large classroom that seats up to 30 people. Tables and chairs are provided, including a large display TV and HDMI connection.

As well as being a unique setting to hold presentations or training, it's also a fantastic option to host your own family events or children's parties. With features such as Danby Den adventure playground, it's an ideal place to let children run wild!

Lecture theatre

Inside the main lodge building, the Lecture theatre provides a large space for meetings and presentations that require more space/ seating. It can host up to 55 people and is equipped with an electronic white board.

This room is regularly used by our Outdoor Learning team during the week and there are restrictions with evening hire so please enquire for more details.

Studio gallery

A tranquil and inspiring space situated within the Inspired by... gallery. Adjacent from the main exhibition room, it's perfect for running small group workshops or a private meeting space. Email Rhian, Arts and Culture Engagement Officer for enquiries.

More Dark Skies Station information

Hire options at Sutton Bank
Nature & Star Hub

Our 'Hub' sits in a peaceful area at Sutton Bank, metres from the finest view and a few miles from Thirsk. The classroom can seat up to 25 people. Tables and chairs are provided along with a pull-down projector screen. For presentations, you'll need your own projector and necessary cables to connect to a laptop.

The Nature & Star Hub is so-called for good reason. From the windows you can view the recently installed dipping pond. Feeders attract various bird life, including the elusive Turtle Doves. Outside the main doors, arc-shaped seating makes for a great communal space.

Suton Bank Star & Nature Hub

More Nature & Star Hub information

FAQs

What are the hire costs?

Dark Skies Station (Danby): Up to 3 hours £50; Full day £90; Evening £70

Lecture theatre (Danby): Up to 3 hours £65; Full day £95; Evening- please enquire

Studio gallery (Danby): Up to 3 hours £50; Full day £90

Nature & Star Hub (Sutton Bank): Up to 3 hours £40, Full day £70; Evening £40

How can I book private use?

For more information and to receive booking forms, please contact the Centre Managers.

Email Danby Lodge

Email Sutton Bank

Where are the toilets?

Both National Park Centres have toilets near their main buildings.

Including Changing Places and accessible toilets.

Please note: Danby's Changing Places toilet is only open during Centre opening times. The accessible toilet is always available.

Are the classrooms accessible?

Both the Dark Skies Station and Nature & Star Hub have been built with accessibility in mind.

Changing Places toilets are also located on site.

You can see their accessibility guides via each Centre webpage under 'Access for all'.

Do you have catering on-site?

External operators run In the Wilde cafe. Please get in touch with them directly if you'd like to discuss catering options. Email In the Wilde

How can I join a stargazing event?

You can see a list of local astronomers and organisations on our Dark skies events and activities webpage

Can you lead organised group sessions?

We are happy to receive enquiries from groups such as schools/ Cubs/ Brownies/ Guides and can tailor bespoke outdoor learning-led sessions. Please email our Outdoor learning team

Does the National Park organise children's parties?

No. Spaces can be booked for private use only, during the daytime.

At the Dark Skies Station (Danby), this applies to the classroom space only, with no access to the telescope room.

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