From 10 December 2014 about 120,000 couples will have the option to convert their civil partnerships to a marriage. At Hanbury Manor we celebrate the differences that make the world complete, and revere the sanctity of marriage between two people.  We proudly host all manner of religious, ethnic and secular ceremonies, from traditional white weddings to civil unions and same sex partnerships.

Hanbury Manor in Hertfordshire, a stately elegant hotel and one of the UK's premier wedding and special occasion venues, would be delighted to welcome these happy couple to cement their partnership.

The Jacobean-style mansion and former convent school, which is licensed for weddings, civil ceremonies and vow renewals, is situated near the town of Ware, within 200 acres of beautiful parkland and landscaped gardens.

In addition to 161 bedrooms and suites, some with four-poster beds, Hanbury Manor offers a superb choice of function rooms, first-class catering and a comprehensive range of on-site amenities. These include a fully equipped spa, beauty salon and leisure club for top-to-toe pampering, tennis courts and a PGA championship 18-hole golf course.

Originally built for Amy Hanbury as a family home, the property was developed in 1923.  It became a convent school run by the Faithful Companion of Jesus.  A special chapel, Poles Hall was created with a vaulted ceiling and minstrel gallery which can seat up to 120 guests banquet style. The oak panelled room can be used for the ceremony or the wedding breakfast and has access to an intimate courtyard garden.

With spectacular views across the grounds, the Thundridge Suite can accommodate 180 guests, while for smaller events, the Drawing Room, with its striking stone fireplace, oak panelling and lake views or the Conservatory with its a private terrace and bar, can each accommodate up to 40 guests. 

For an extra degree of exclusivity, Garden Court can be booked for private parties of up to 80 guests seated and 150 buffet style. Set within the grounds of the Manor, it is a self-contained venue with its own conservatory, walled garden, 27 bedrooms and galleried landing, making it a popular choice for wedding parties. 

To help plan the perfect day, Hanbury Manor's resident team of certified wedding coordinators offer all the experience and expertise in marriage protocols and etiquette to ensure that your event runs smoothly. Whether you already have a clear plan or would like ideas and inspiration, they can work to any brief and budget to customise your event, book entertainment and take care of all the arrangements, giving you the peace of mind to make your special event a truly memorable occasion.

With a high standard of catering based on the freshest, seasonal ingredients, a versatile choice of menus can be tailored to suit every preference, whether an informal supper or a fully themed feast. From classic canapes and champagne on arrival to a complete banquet with fine wines, the executive chef can cater for every possible taste.

www.marriotthanburymanor.co.uk

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Notes to editors

Situated close to Ware in Hertfordshire, Hanbury Manor Hotel and Country Club is a five-star country retreat with 161 bedrooms and suites, plus comprehensive dining, fitness, leisure, event, conference and business facilities. Its location, 15km south of London Stansted airport, 40km north of London City centre and well connected to major road and rail routes, makes it a convenient location for visitors travelling from the UK and overseas. In addition to its leisure and wedding facilities, it offers a complete range of services for business events and conferences including 14 meeting rooms, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and 1300 square meters of flexible event space. The championship 18-hole golf course, designed by Harry Vardon and latterly updated by Jack Nicklaus II, has hosted the English Open several times. The hotel even brews its own Hanbury Ale from an original family recipe which is available in the restaurants and bars. 

Hanbury Manor Hotel is part of the Marriott Hotel group, which has 4,000 properties worldwide and the widest portfolio of brands in the hospitality industry.

16 bedrooms have recently been refurbished to an extremely high standard offering luxurious accommodation with rainwater showers and L'occitane toiletries and stunning views of the golf course.