Venue Name: Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club
Location: Wych Cross, nr Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5JR
Please tell us a little about Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club’s history.
The original mansion house was built in the early 1800s and passed through several owners until June 1919, when the estate was once more put up for sale. In the July, Sister Marie Saint Agnes of the Order of the Notre Dame visited Ashdown Park and considered it ideal for convent purposes. In 1919 she was requested by the Mother General to find a property suitable for a training establishment for the novices, and was able to purchase Ashdown Park for the Order quite cheaply as most of the trees had been felled. In the spring of 1920 the first Sisters of Notre Dame, together with 33 novices, arrived at Ashdown Park.
Although the house was too small for convent purposes, stone was quarried from the grounds and the extensions to the building were planned.
In 1922 the West Wing was completed, the Church of Our Lady and St Richard in 1924, and the East Wing in 1938. The Church, consecrated in 1927, was particularly beautiful with marble from Italy, Switzerland and Sweden. Harry Clarke of Dublin designed and manufactured the Sanctuary Windows where 35 shades of blue were used in addition to other colours. Geoffrey Webb of East Grinstead executed the stained glass windows in the Lady Chapel.
The Nuns remained happily at Ashdown Park for almost fifty years until the United States International University took over in 1971. The Roman Catholic Church deconsecrated the Chapel, and the USIC renamed it.
The University did not stay long and in 1974 Ashdown Park was conveyed to Barclays Bank for use as a Management Training Centre, which remained until it was sold to Elite Hotels on 1st February 1993 and turned into the luxury hotel it is today.
What type of venue is Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club?
Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club is a luxurious Country House Hotel set in the heart of the Ashdown Forest in East Sussex, with 106 individually-styled bedrooms and suites. It offers wedding ceremonies and receptions which cater from two up to 150 people.
Which rooms at Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club are licensed for wedding ceremonies?
The John Haywood Suite, Jacob Henniker Suite, Henry Smart Suite and the Summer House are all licensed for wedding.
What can a couple expect from having their wedding at Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club?
Attention to detail is our byword, from superb cuisine and wines to our dedicated team of staff with a wealth of experience in creating the perfect wedding.
On the day, Ashdown Park’s stunning setting offers a wealth of inspirational backdrops for photographs, including the lake with its cascading fountain and our secluded secret garden.
We understand that every wedding is unique and no two celebrations are the same. In addition to totally bespoke and tailor-made weddings, Ashdown Park offers a range of inclusive packages that include everything needed for an outstanding reception, and whatever you choose, our dedicated wedding co-ordinator will be on hand every step of the way.
Does Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club have its own caterers or can couples choose to bring in their own caterers?
We have two kitchens in the Hotel and are experts at catering for anything from small, intimate events to lavish, five course banquets.
What would a typical wedding breakfast at Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club be?
There are several choices on the menu, from a roast vegetable and goat’s cheese tart with red pesto dressing starter, to a main of ballotine of duck with apricot and smoked bacon farce, pickled red cabbage and lentil jus. Desserts such as caramelised banana bavarois with chocolate ice cream are a favourite, as is our local cheese board. Coffee and petits fours complete the sumptuous wedding breakfast.
What types of packages are available at Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club?
Intimate, silver, gold and platinum packages are available.
Can packages be tailored to the couple’s needs?
Absolutely — we are very flexible with our packages. It’s the couple’s day and we ensure they have everything they could possibly need.
What do you think is the best thing about having a wedding at Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club?
Time and time again the feedback from guests is that it’s the best wedding they’ve been to. The service, professionalism and attention to detail is very evident from the minute guests arrive to the last person to leave.
The stunning backdrop for wedding photographs is also a wow factor for the couple and guests alike!
We are incredibly experienced in hosting weddings and our Wedding Co-ordinator, Lauren Peters, is with you every step of the way, including the day itself, which is not always the case at other venues.
Does Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club have any rooms for guests to stay?
Yes, we have 106 individually-styled bedrooms ranging from Deluxe to Master Suites.
What is your top tip for choosing the perfect wedding venue?
Trust your gut feeling.
Where can I find out more about Ashdown Park Hotel & Country Club?
Speak to our Wedding Co-ordinator Lauren Peters on 01342 824988, or email lpeters@elitehotels.co.uk. Also visit our website, view our wedding video and download a wedding brochure at www.ashdownpark.com.
