A £2 million refurbishment programme to transform 16th Century Hallgarth Manor Hotel near Durham into the ultimate wedding venue has just been completed.
The year-long refurbishment has seen the creation of a new bridal suite from a former meeting room; the new Mirror Ball function room and a stylish new Orangery. The work followed the purchase of the hotel by Shepherd Cox, who have a small number of high quality hotels across the North of England.

Providing a highly contemporary, luxury getaway and the ultimate “personal experience” for brides, grooms and their families, the hotel now fills a gap in the market in the North East. Group Manager for weddings and events, Margaret Livingstone-Evans said: “The old hotel had a good reputation and definite country house vibe, but needed some work to bring it up to the standards demanded for modern weddings.
“We felt we had the right ingredients in terms of location, history and character but needed to ensure the facilities ticked every Bride’s wish list from ballroom to bedroom.”
The hotel provides 24 modern bedrooms, four-acres of private grounds and luxury surroundings attracting guests from Durham, Sunderland, Darlington and Teeside areas. Just three miles from the centre of the historic University city of Durham, hotel bosses are promising a special wedding – rather than a ‘conveyor belt’. Said Margaret: “We care more. Unlike some wedding venues which go full throttle trying to process half a dozen weddings each and every day, Hallgarth Manor is aimed at those who want a more personal experience, allowing each couple to enjoy the whole of their special day.
“A unique aspect of Hallgarth Manor is the St Laurence Church in Pittington – which is a short walk from the hotel.
“Couples can choose the full church wedding option here before transferring to Hallgarth Manor. And brides from outside the area are allowed to marry at the Church. It’s so dreamy.”

The re-configured hotel, set among mature trees with a walled garden, also has its own pub – called The Tavern. The hotel will also be catering for other events, including functions, business meetings and school Proms.
Shepherd Cox company director Nick Carlile added: “We are excited to have added Hallgarth Manor to our expanding hotel portfolio and have extensive plans for the hotel to become the premier wedding venue in the region.
“The hotel has been lovingly and subtly refurbished to combine the best from its 500 year history with contemporary touches and interiors to provide the ultimate and highly personal country house hotel experience."

 
“We aimed high as we were determined to get the offering just right for our brides and grooms – a one-stop venue encompassing church wedding, luxury hotel and a range of entertainment and menus in one easy to get to destination.
“Judging by reactions so far, we think we have got it spot on.”
To see more of Hallgarth Manor, then order your copy of the brand new Belle Bridal Magazine to see inside and find out more information about this stunning venue. For any questions about hosting your wedding here, visit www.hallgarthdurham.co.uk