Wales Institute for Sustainable Education (Wise)

The Wales Institute for Sustainable Education, known as WISE, is a distinctive conference and event venue set within the Centre for Alternative Technology in Mid Wales. Surrounded by the landscapes of the Dyfi Biosphere and close to Machynlleth, it offers an inspiring setting for organisations looking to bring people together in a more sustainable environment.

WISE is designed for conferences, meetings, training sessions, workshops, residential retreats, celebrations and one-off events. Its facilities combine a tiered lecture theatre with a selection of flexible meeting and breakout rooms, making the venue suitable for both larger delegate programmes and smaller working groups. The Sheppard Theatre can accommodate up to 130 delegates, while additional rooms provide practical spaces for seminars, discussions, private meetings and group activities. Foyers and shared areas can also be used for networking, exhibitions, receptions and informal gatherings.

Event organisers can arrange professional vegetarian catering through the on-site café and kitchens, with options for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, buffets and delegate packages. The venue is particularly well suited to sustainability-led conferences, educational programmes, community gatherings, corporate away days and retreats that benefit from a strong sense of place.

WISE also offers 24 twin and double en-suite bedrooms, allowing organisers to create residential events without arranging separate accommodation nearby. Guests can enjoy countryside views, shared outdoor areas, free Wi-Fi and accessible facilities, while the building itself showcases low-impact construction and renewable-energy principles.

With public transport connections through Machynlleth, on-site parking and a memorable setting within a working environmental education centre, WISE gives organisers the opportunity to combine practical event facilities with meaningful surroundings and a clear sustainability ethos.