Getting to Know - Combermere Abbey - The Wedding Community

Venue Name: Combermere Abbey

Location: Near Whitchurch, Cheshire

What type of venue is Combermere Abbey and how old is the building?

Combermere Abbey is a delightful country house wedding venue with breathtaking grounds and a rich history. Original parts of the house date back to the 12th century.

Founded by Hugh de Malbank, Lord of Nantwich in the 12th century, it began as a Cistercian monastery. Over the following centuries it was transformed and remodelled, predominantly serving as a private residence.

In 1919 Sir Kenneth Crossley of Crossley Motors bought Combermere Abbey and its estate. Used as an evacuee girls’ school during the Second World War, the house began to show signs of increasing decay.

Sarah Callander Beckett took over the estate in 1992 and began an extensive restoration project. Since this time, we have seen the restoration of estate buildings and the Walled Gardens, the conversion of the stable block into luxury cottages and the exciting restoration of the magnificent North Wing.

Combermere Abbey became a wedding venue in 1995, and was one of the first venues to obtain a civil license.

What is the capacity for a wedding ceremony and wedding reception at Combermere Abbey?

Couples can marry with up to 120 guests in the Edwardian Glasshouse or outside in the centre of the unique fruit tree maze. The Pavilion can accommodate 150 for wedding breakfasts and receptions.

What rooms are available for couples having their wedding at Combermere Abbey?

Couples have exclusive use of the venue and the Walled Gardens for the whole day, including the characterful Glasshouse and stylish Pavilion. The luxurious North Wing honeymoon suite is also included, while guest accommodation for 49 is available on-site in the charming Courtyard Cottages.

Do you offer exclusive use as part of the packages, or is this an extra charge?

Exclusive use comes as standard for weddings at Combermere Abbey.

Is catering provided for weddings or can couples bring in their own caterers?

Couples can choose between two highly-regarded caterers, Pickled Walnut and Olive Tree, who have worked with Combermere Abbey for years. Gorilla Events provide the incredible bar service at the venue.

There is plenty of choice from both caterers, who will work with you to find the perfect menu to suit your tastes.

Does Combermere Abbey have a set price for weddings or is there a tiered pricing structure? What packages do you offer?

Combermere Abbey offers a comprehensive wedding package that includes everything you could need to make your big day a huge success. With a private cottage to prepare, classic car to transport you to the ceremony location, dedicated wedding coordinator, exquisite Honeymoon Suite and plenty more, we’ve got every aspect of your day covered.

You can currently take advantage of two amazing offers at Combermere Abbey too. Firstly, book any remaining Friday, Saturday or Sunday in 2018 and you can save £1,000 on the venue hire fee. You can also take £500 off the guest accommodation too, meaning your loved ones could spend the night for a great price. Secondly, choose any future Monday to Thursday date and take advantage of Combermere Abbey’s Midweek Package for just £9,995. Visit the website for more information.

Does Combermere Abbey have a wedding co-ordinator on site, and are they available on the day of the wedding?

Our dedicated wedding coordinators, Ashleigh and Diane, will be there to support you with all your planning and preparation, from providing suggestions of suppliers, to working with you up to and on the day itself to ensure that your wedding runs without a hitch.

What can a couple expect from having their wedding at Combermere Abbey?

When a couple ties the knot at Combermere Abbey they can expect to receive the finest service and enjoy one of the most spectacular settings around. Combining charm and elegance with stunning outside space and an unbeatable sense of seclusion, couples will feel like this wonderful venue is truly their own on their wedding day.

What is the best thing about having your wedding at Combermere Abbey?

It’s hard to choose just one thing, but having the idyllic walled gardens completely to yourself is certainly one of the highlights. Whether it’s while you’re exchanging vows looking out over the unique fruit tree maze, enjoying drinks and garden games with your loved ones, or stealing a few moments alone together as a married couple, this picturesque setting is the perfect place to be.

Describe Combermere Abbey in three words.

Enchanting, luxurious and elegant.

What’s your top tip for choosing the perfect wedding venue?

Make a list of your requirements before visiting a venue so you can ensure it ticks all the boxes. It’s easy to forget otherwise, particularly if you are seeing quite a few.