Nestled on the serene banks of the River Trent in Castle Donington, Derbyshire, The Priest House by the River offers a truly enchanting setting for couples looking to say “I do” in a venue steeped in history and romance. With nearly 1,000 years of heritage, built around a charming mill tower with water wheels, this 42-bedroom hotel guarantees an exclusive-use experience for your wedding day. Whether you envision an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, The Priest House adapts beautifully to your dreams.
Venue Highlights
Historic Charm with Modern Flexibility Since its establishment centuries ago, The Priest House by the River has evolved into a luxurious wedding venue while retaining its timeless character. The elegant interiors and carefully maintained historic features provide a breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies and receptions alike. With various packages available, you can choose from a range of setups—from intimate gatherings for 20 guests to larger receptions accommodating up to 100 diners and 180 guests in the evening.
Versatile Spaces The venue boasts multiple settings for every stage of your special day. Hold your civil ceremony or partnership in the Drawing Room, Blue Room, or Library, or opt for an outdoor ceremony amidst landscaped gardens and river views. The function rooms, such as the famed Garden Room (featured in DJ reviews), offer a flexible and inviting space to celebrate with a dancefloor, while still retaining the venue’s historic elegance.
Exceptional Amenities and Accommodation The Priest House provides comprehensive wedding services:
Exclusive Use: Enjoy complete privacy for your event, ensuring a personalized experience.
Accommodations: With 42 luxurious bedrooms and dedicated bridal and honeymoon suites, your guests will have a comfortable and stylish stay.
Dining Excellence: A state-of-the-art sound system, in-house catering, and bespoke wine lists guarantee a feast that delights every palate.
Additional Perks: On-site parking, landscaped gardens, and a suite of modern conveniences ensure a smooth and memorable celebration.
DJ Reviews – Setting the Beat for Your Big Day
Our DJ reviews from needadisco.com highlight the strengths—and some challenges—of the venue from a technical perspective. One DJ review of the Garden Room on 29/02/2016 noted:
The Good:
A permanent wooden dancefloor that offers a classic, stylish surface for dancing.
Air conditioning keeps the atmosphere comfortable even on warm days, and the room’s design provides ample power access with plenty of 13A sockets.
The Challenges:
Some limitations with in-house lighting effects mean you might want to coordinate additional lighting for dramatic moments.
The absence of a dedicated stage area may require creative planning if you’re envisioning a large live performance.
These insights are valuable for suppliers and couples alike, helping ensure that your wedding’s entertainment runs smoothly and in tune with your vision.
Couple Reviews – Celebrating Love at The Priest House
Couple testimonials speak volumes about the venue’s ability to deliver magical experiences:
Charlotte & Ross Barber (October 2024):“We had the most beautiful day at The Priest House! Our wedding coordinators were amazing, and every staff member made our day stress-free and magical. James at the bar brought the perfect mix of fun and service. We couldn’t have had friendlier, better staff.”
Rebecca & Darren Wood (October 2024):“Outstanding staff and a breathtaking venue! Every detail was perfectly managed, and the food was delicious. The entire day was seamless, and we received countless compliments from our guests. Thank you to everyone at The Priest House.”
Lucy Corbett & Niall Murphy (October 2024):“Our wedding day was simply unforgettable. From the moment we arrived, the team went above and beyond to ensure our day was perfect. The picturesque outdoor area by the river was the ideal backdrop for our ceremony and photos.”
These heartfelt reviews highlight the venue’s attention to detail, warm hospitality, and the dedicated wedding team that turns your dream day into a reality.
Why Choose The Priest House by the River?
A Unique Blend of History and Modern Comfort: The venue’s rich heritage combined with modern amenities creates a wedding setting that is both timeless and effortlessly stylish. With its stunning riverside location, exquisite architecture, and exclusive use guarantee, you’re ensured privacy and a personal touch on your special day.
Flexibility for Every Vision: Whether you want an intimate ceremony or a grand celebration, The Priest House offers multiple venues within one property. Its versatile spaces allow you to tailor every detail to your taste—be it a DIY wedding with your own suppliers or a fully catered, all-inclusive package.
Outstanding Service: The dedicated wedding coordinators and friendly staff consistently receive praise for their professionalism and warmth. Their commitment to making your wedding day flawless, from initial planning to the final farewell, ensures that you can relax and cherish every moment.
Entertainment Ready: Even the technical aspects, as highlighted by DJ reviews, are considered. While some additional lighting might be required for an extra wow factor, the venue’s acoustic-friendly spaces and dancefloor settings make it a great choice for lively celebrations.
Conclusion
For couples dreaming of a wedding that marries rich history with modern luxury, The Priest House by the River is a standout choice. Its blend of exclusive use, stunning riverside views, versatile event spaces, and impeccable service creates the perfect canvas for your unforgettable day. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, this venue ensures that every detail is handled with care—leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re ready to turn your wedding dreams into reality, contact The Priest House today and experience the magic for yourself!
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