From Leeds city centre to the rolling hills of North Yorkshire, the region is packed with fantastic places to host a charity auction in Yorkshire. Whether you are planning a glamorous black-tie dinner, a sporty fundraising night, or a weekend-long donor retreat, there’s a venue to suit every style of event.
Here is our round-up of 12 of the best auction venues in Yorkshire, each with its own unique character and charm.
New Dock, Leeds
Set in the vibrant Leeds Docklands, New Dock is modern, flexible, and built for big ideas. With huge open-plan spaces and top-notch facilities, it is perfect for large-scale fundraising events where you want to go big on production.
- Capacity: Up to 1,500 guests
- Why it works: Its blank canvas layout means you can make the space completely your own.
- Tip: Use the waterside location for striking photos and sponsor activations.
Aspire, Leeds
Housed in a former Victorian bank, Aspire has all the grandeur you would expect with marble columns, chandeliers, and sweeping staircases mixed with a contemporary edge.
- Capacity: Up to 700 guests
- Why it works: It is central, stylish, and brings an instant wow factor.
- Tip: The staircase makes a perfect entrance moment for your big auction reveal.
The Queens Hotel, Leeds
The Queens is one of Leeds’ most iconic hotels. With its Art Deco interiors and unbeatable location next to the station, it is a go-to for glamour and convenience.
- Capacity: Up to 500 guests
- Why it works: A mix of history, prestige, and seamless service.
- Tip: Work with the chefs to create a themed menu that reflects your cause.
Elland Road, Leeds
Home of Leeds United, Elland Road brings energy, atmosphere, and plenty of space. It is a natural fit if you want a sporting backdrop to your fundraising.
- Capacity: Up to 1,200 guests
- Why it works: Pitch views, flexible rooms, and a built-in buzz.
- Tip: Add signed memorabilia or sports star appearances to boost the bids.
Rudding Park Hotel, Harrogate
Rudding Park is luxury with a Yorkshire twist. Known for its award-winning spa, championship golf course, and gorgeous event spaces, it is a favourite for charity weekends that mix fundraising with relaxation.
- Capacity: 50 to 500 guests
- Why it works: A stunning setting that blends leisure and philanthropy.
- Tip: Combine a golf day with an evening auction for maximum impact.
Pavilions of Harrogate / Yorkshire Event Centre
When you need space and lots of it, this Harrogate landmark delivers. It is versatile, practical, and big enough to host even the largest charity nights.
- Capacity: Up to 1,000 guests
- Why it works: Flexible layouts, easy access, and plenty of parking.
- Tip: Create different zones for drinks, silent auctions, and the main event.
Grantley Hall
Hidden near Ripon, Grantley Hall is pure five-star luxury. With Michelin-star dining, opulent interiors, and beautiful gardens, it is perfect for exclusive charity dinners.
- Capacity: 50 to 300 guests
- Why it works: It is one of the most luxurious venues in the county.
- Tip: Make it an overnight experience with spa time or private dining.
Bowcliffe Hall
Bowcliffe Hall is a venue with personality. It is stately but fun, with quirky spaces like the aviation-inspired Blackburn Wing that guests never forget.
- Capacity: Up to 200 guests
- Why it works: Every room feels unique and conversation-worthy.
- Tip: Host your main auction in the Blackburn Wing for a real wow moment.
Hazlewood Castle
Dating back to the 13th century, Hazlewood Castle is as historic as it is atmospheric. With gardens, function rooms, and accommodation, it is ideal for events that need a touch of magic.
- Capacity: Up to 350 guests
- Why it works: A fairytale setting between Leeds and York.
- Tip: Kick things off with a drinks reception in the gardens.
York Racecourse
With its heritage, prestige, and space, York Racecourse is a natural choice for charity nights with scale. Guests love the views and the sense of occasion.
- Capacity: Up to 1,000 guests
- Why it works: A well-known Yorkshire landmark with versatile facilities.
- Tip: Tie your event to a race day for extra excitement.
Swinton Park
A castle hotel surrounded by 200 acres of parkland, Swinton Park is as impressive as it is tranquil. Perfect for intimate black-tie dinners or donor retreats.
- Capacity: Up to 250 guests
- Why it works: A mix of exclusivity and countryside charm.
- Tip: Offer overnight packages to turn your auction into a weekend experience.
The Grand, York
York’s only five-star hotel, The Grand is elegant, historic, and stylish. Its event spaces bring gravitas to any charity night.
- Capacity: Up to 250 guests
- Why it works: Central, luxurious, and beautifully run.
- Tip: Use the atmospheric vaulted spaces for storytelling-led auctions.
The Principal York
Overlooking York Minster, The Principal is a Victorian gem with beautiful ballrooms and gardens. It is a heritage setting that still feels fresh and versatile.
- Capacity: Up to 400 guests
- Why it works: Classic Yorkshire grandeur with modern amenities.
- Tip: Collaborate with the culinary team to create a bespoke dinner for donors.
Finding the right Yorkshire venue
From the energy of Leeds city centre to the elegance of North Yorkshire’s country estates, the county is full of standout venues for charity auctions. Whether you want big and bold or intimate and exclusive, Yorkshire has the perfect backdrop.
At Impulse Decisions, we have helped hundreds of charities host memorable fundraising nights that raise serious money for great causes. From sourcing incredible prizes to managing every detail of the event, our team knows how to make your charity night shine.
Get in touch and let us plan your Yorkshire charity auction together.