Category Archives: Events

Step into Spring

Step Into Spring with abbey House Hotel & Gardens

From big blooms to seasonal fruits, Spring is a fantastic time to tie the knot especially in Cumbria! It’s not only a season full of life but can also bring lovely weather, giving you the perfect opportunity for those cherished moments to be captured in the picturesque grounds of Abbey House Hotels & Gardens.

Booking Early

Spring is a very busy time for Abbey House Hotel & Gardens – by booking your wedding a year in advance, it will not only help you avoid disappointment but will give you a better range of available dates and plenty of time for you to plan the perfect day !

 

The Planning

When planning your wedding, it’s a good idea to think about what style you want to go for and your perfect colour theme; taking in the season is an excellent place to start… For example, when you think of spring most people think of Easter, pastels, and lots of colourful flowers beginning to bloom.

Using a pastel colour theme will keep your wedding feeling fresh, bright and timeless. Give it that little extra pop by including a metallic colour to highlight throughout your day or perhaps use a bold floral print as an accent.

Pinterest can be a fantastic source for inspiration but can also overload you with too many ideas … try and keep it simple! Stick to a few key ideas which you love and work around those.

 

Flowers

There is a very wide variety of flowers in spring, some of the best in fact! Think hessian tied bouquets of Hydrangeas or Tulips, Ranunculas, Sweet peas, Nigella, Hyacinth, Delphiniums and wild garden Roses, only a few of our favourites. Perhaps petals or dried flowers instead of confetti.

Not wanting a veil? Flower crowns are a perfect boho alternative for spring! There are so many beautiful options that you can have. Speak to your chosen florist for ideas on flowers that will work for you, and bear in mind some flowers can struggle without a water source and end up looking very wilted.

With spring, in full swing the Abbey House Gardens will definitely be full of colour!

 

The Wedding Cake

The cake is always a tough one to think about… do you have something small, tall, tiered, square or round? Going for something more simple can not only be cost effective but it can also be a show stopper! Barely naked cakes look fantastic in spring, they are very simple yet can be dressed with seasonal fruits or flowers that match the bouquets to give it that wow factor!

At Abbey House the wedding cakes are included in selected Abbey Wedding Packages. You can select your favourite supplier from our Ideal Partners list to create your perfect wedding cake with your guidance and ideas.

 

Details

Why not keep in with your theme running though out the day? Here are a couple of SPRING wedding ideas for you…

Wedding blessing outside – Why not tie the knot outside, amongst all of the beautiful budding spring flowers and lush green grounds in the Abbey House Gardens on the edge of the Lake District? This can be a beautiful way to share you vows surrounded by your loved ones in a relaxed setting, however there is always that chance of bad weather. Here at Abbey House we like to make sure the day runs perfectly and always have a contingency plan up our sleeves! To find out more about Wedding blessings outside contact our wedding team on weddings@abbeyhousehotel.com.

Pastel chair sashes and matching table top swag – These are a fab way to add that pop of colour into to your day. Chair covers, sashes and to table swag can be included in your wedding package at Abbey House Hotel, provided by the fabulous Sitting Pretty.

Table plan – Why not try using spring flower plant pots? Paint your table number on to each pot and have your guest’s names spilling out of the table number they are sitting at … this is a lovely twist to the traditional paper table plan, or perhaps try something as simple as flower themed table names.

Guest favours- How about a gift that keeps on giving, a succulent or even flowers seeds, something which is a reminder of your day for years to come.

 

 

We love new ideas at Abbey House Hotel & Gardens, if you have any new creative ideas feel free to share them with us #abbeyhousespringweddingideas.

Happy (Spring) wedding planning.

5 Reasons To Have A Winter Wedding

When most couples think of their wedding day in the Lake District they normally think of a hot summers day drinking fizz and celebrating it with their loved ones… But why do they dismiss the option of having a winter wedding? I know what you are thinking… the weather will be cold and dismal, there’s a chance of rain or snow and the days can be dark and dingy. We shouldn’t dismiss a Winter Wedding in Cumbria for these reasons. They can be some of the most romantic and detailed weddings around! Here are 5 reasons why we think you should rethink having a Winter Wedding.

 

The Price

Winter is the best time of year to have your perfect wedding day at a reduced cost. Due to the peak season being over, Abbey House Hotel will be offering special winter wedding packages, Steve Hillman Wedding Photography is also offering a late availability package exclusively to Abbey house (subject to availability). It’s a fantastic opportunity to save money! And who knows you might even be able to hire that perfect band you both love!

 

Winter Bride Groom Sign-01

 

The Theme

Why not sprinkle some Christmas magic on your wedding and embrace the season! By using a Christmas colour pallet, it will allow you more freedom to keep your wedding modern yet celebrate your favourite holiday at the same time. Abbey House Hotel & Gardens pulls out every stop especially when it comes to Christmas lights!

 

xmas1

 

The Photo Opportunities

What’s more perfect than a crisp winters day… The nights get darker and the celebrations get louder! As a wedding favour why not think about giving custom branded sparklers? I don’t know how many times we’ve all been to weddings and ‘accidentally’ left the wedding favour on the table… By giving sparklers you can get your guests to take part in a magical photo, lighting the path for you and your lovely partner’s future! By upgrading your wedding package with Abbey House you could receive the perfect background … a magical firework display.

 

AdobeStock_106751287-01

 

The Details

Where to start… Winter wedding details are the perfect way to set the mood for your big day. Whether it’s using hundreds of glowing candles down the aisle or warm twinkling lights at your reception, you can create the most amazing experience for your guests from start to finish with the simplest ideas.

 

wedding lanterns

 

The Winter Romance

There is nothing more romantic than a getting married on a chilly winters day in Cumbria. It’s a perfect chance to get all cosy next to your new husband/wife over a glass of warm mulled wine and enjoy every moment of your big day…

 

Bride and grom_winter-01

Autumn Weekend Breaks in the Lake District

Catch the last of summer’s warmth and the first of the crisp autumn weather this September and October with a weekend break at Abbey House Hotel & Gardens.

Located just below the South Lakes, Abbey House Hotel & Gardens is just a short drive from the heart of the Lake District, one of the finest parts of England to enjoy the blaze of autumn trees.

The 14 acres of private woodland and gardens that surround the hotel put on a spectacular show each autumn, enjoyed during a stroll through the grounds, or simply from your room or suite windows.

Further afield; explore the Lake District National Park with vivid autumn colours perfectly reflected in Lake Windermere and Coniston Water.

Here are just some of Abbey House Hotel & Gardens’ recommendations for beautiful autumn views:

  • Grizedale Forest- just over 30 minutes from Abbey House Hotel & Gardens, Grizedale is truly picturesque in autumn.
  • Whinlatter Forest- this unique mountain forest boasts dramatic views and lies an hour and a half north of Abbey House Hotel & Gardens.
  • High Dam at Lake Windermere- take a walk around the tarn surrounded by larch, pine, oak and birch. High Dam is just a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

At the end of a day spent exploring the fells, woods and waters; enjoy a delightful meal at Oscar’s Restaurant.  Opt for the oak paneled dining area, or the heated dining terrace, which is perfect for drinking in garden views.

When planning your autumn getaway to the Lake District, why not book one of the hotels deals on offer at Abbey House Hotel & Gardens?

Award Winning Cumbria Wedding Venue

Abbey House Hotel is very proud to have again received the award for best wedding venue in Cumbria. The latest award now makes it the fifth year in a row that Abbey House has been awarded this prestigious accolade. All the hard work and planning of the most amazing Cumbria weddings has really paid off. The award was graciously accepted at the Gala presentation evening hosted by County Brides on the 17th June at St George’s Hall in Liverpool.

Best Wedding Venue Cumbria Award Ceremony
Abbey House Wedding Coordinators Harriet & Jo collecting the award for best wedding venue in Cumbria for the 5th year!

Now in their fifth year, The North West Wedding Awards promote excellence within the wedding industry, across a wide range of categories.

The Abbey House wedding team specializes in taking your dreams and making them come true. With all the worrying tasks taken care of you can concentrate on enjoying your special day. Not only is Abbey House the best wedding venue in Cumbria but you will find the hotel facilities a perfect match for your special day.

Why choose Abbey House hotel as your wedding venue:

  • 5 times voted the “best wedding venue in Cumbria
  • Experience serving 140 significant events a year
  • Dedicated, highly experienced wedding service team
  • Beautiful country wedding setting
  • Exclusive, bespoke packages that are unique to each couple
  • Luxury guest accommodation
  • Award winning catering
  • Exquisite gardens and grounds

Enquire Now

For the best wedding venue in Cumbria look no further than Abbey House Hotel & Gardens. To discuss your wedding plans with our team please contact us using the form below:

    Name of Bride

    Name of Groom

    Email Address*

    Contact Number

    Church Ceremony or Hotel Ceremony

    Number of people for ceremony and sit down meal

    Number of people for Evening Reception

    Your Comments (please include your name & address if you would like us to post you any literature)

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    Please enter the following into the input below:

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    View our wedding brochure

    Summer Holidays In The Lake District

    The Lake District is just perfect for a summer holiday with lots to do for the whole family. Abbey House Hotel & Gardens is located on the southern border of the Lake District and is the perfect base for a summer holiday or weekend break. Abbey House Hotel & Gardens have prepared a guide to a few of the top Lake District attractions within a few miles of Abbey House Hotel in Barrow In Furness.

    Furness Abbey

    Furness Abbey offers an opportunity to see firsthand the impressive, romantic ruins of an Abbey founded by Stephen, later King of England. Furness Abbey is located at the end of our beautiful grounds and is a great day day out with the family.

    Address:
    Manor Road
    Barrow in Furness
    Cumbria
    LA13 0PJ

    The South Lakes Wild Animal Park

    The South Lakes Wild Animal Park is just a 5 minute drive away and guests of Abbey House Hotel & Gardens can enjoy great savings on their entrance fees. Experience wild animals such as lions, snow leopards, kangaroos, wolves, bears and cute monkeys.

    Address:
    South Lakes Safari Zoo,
    Dalton-In-Furness,
    Cumbria,
    LA15 8JR

    Cumbria Golf

    Abbey House Hotel & Gardens is situated close to two  stunning golf courses, Ulverston Golf Club and Barrow Golf Club. Simply contact our reservations team and we will arrange tee off times for you.

    Ulverston Golf Club:
    Bardsea Park, Ulverston LA12 9QJ, United Kingdom

    Barrow Golf Club:
    Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    Every room at Abbey House Hotel guarantees an exquisitely comfortable bed, soft plush carpets and en-suite facilities. All of our rooms include a flatscreen LCD TV with a range of Sky Sports and Freeview channels as well as tea and coffee making facilities. For the benefit and comfort of our guests, there is complimentary Wifi access throughout all public areas, suites and bedrooms.

    We look forward to welcoming you and the family on a Lake District Holiday or weekend break this summer.

    Easter & Bank Holiday Break In The Lake District

    Where will you be spending your Easter Bank Holiday weekend? How about a Easter break to the picturesque Lake District area of Cumbria. The Lake District area of Cumbria is considered one of England’s most outstanding areas of natural beauty. Abbey House Hotel & Gardens enjoys an ideal Cumbrian location on the southern border of The Lake District. Millions of tourists visit Cumbria and The Lake District National Park every year to enjoy the tranquil countryside and you too can experience it this Easter Bank Holiday.

    This year the dates of Easter Bank holidays are:

    Good Friday – Friday 3rd April
    Easter Monday – Monday 6th April

    Abbey House Hotel & Gardens is situated on the grounds of the famous historic landmark the Furness Abbey which can be visited by guests at the hotel. With 14 acres of private woodland and gardens to explore there is plenty to do for the whole family.

    The hotel has recently undergone a multi million pound refurbishment in its Centenary year and guests will enjoy award winning dining at Oscars and stunning and imaginative contemporary accommodation.  Each room offers as standard:

    • an amazingly comfortable bed
    • soft plush carpets
    • en-suite facilities
    • flatscreen LCD TV with a range of Sky Sports and Freeview channels
    • tea and coffee making facilities
    • complimentary Wifi access

    Make a booking at  the Elements Spa and leave the world behind as you treat yourself to the ultimate in relaxation and rejuvenation. To check availability at Abbey House Hotel for this easter bank Holiday please use our online booking engine or give the team a call on 0844 8262091.

     

    Valentine’s Weekend Break in Barrow In Furness, Cumbria

    Are you still looking for the perfect destination for your Valentine’s weekend break? We hope Abbey House Hotel & Gardens will be the Valentine’s Day destination you have always dreamed of. Set in the Cumbrian countryside in the seaside town of Barrow In Furness, Abbey House Hotel offers all that you need for a truly romantic weekend.

    Abbey House Hotel

    As an award winning wedding venue , romance is our speciality and the lovely country setting is just right for spending time with your Valentine. Our stunning rooms and suites offer imaginative contemporary interiors and a full compliment of amenities. In each room you will find flatscreen LCD TV with a range of Sky Sports and Freeview channels as well as tea and coffee making facilities. There is complimentary Wifi access throughout all public areas, suites and bedrooms.

    Join us for our  Valentines Masquerade Ball on Saturday February 14th 2015 for a taste of our award winning cuisine or contact us now to make an enquiry.

    Conference Venue In The Lake District, Cumbria

    Conferences and events can really lack personality when hosted in a sterile city space. Abbey House Hotel on the other hand offers a state of the art conference venue in the beauty of the Lake District Cumbria.

    Our countryside location near the Cumbrian Lakes does not mean antiquated technology. We have invested in a range of cutting edge AV technology, seamlessly integrated to ensure ease of use and the success of your event or conference. This conference technology includes high resolution HD quality projectors with the latest Apple iPad controls and the ability to present directly from an iPad to the room display using Apple TV.

    Conference room in Cumbria

    Abbey House Hotel offers ideal venue options with a choice of conference and meeting rooms. Our in-house conference equipment comprises of:

    • Built in projectors & screens or HD Screens with laptop interface & sound. (where this isn’t possible a portable screen & projector will be provided)
    • Flip Charts & Markers if requested
    • Blotters, Paper & Pencils

    Off package, all Abbey House Hotel & Gardens conferencing rooms are available from £100 per hour, including all in house equipment as detailed, Free WiFi, Coffee, Water & Cordials.

    Conference presentation venue

    If you prefer a more informal setting or when full conference facilities are not needed then visit our award winning restaurant, Oscar’s. Oscar’s offers free WiFi throughout the day complimented with an extensive beverage & dining range. This is a ideal environment to meet with your important clients over award winning food and drink.

    Conference catering

    Your conference delegates and visitors will love exploring the surrounding gardens and countryside and relaxing in our comfortable rooms.  All of our bedrooms include a flatscreen LCD TV with a range of Sky Sports and Freeview channels and complimentary WIFI.

    Speak to our dedicated conference team today to discuss your conference venue requirements in the Lake District, Cumbria.

    New Year’s Party In Barrow in Furness

    See in the New Year with a smashing New Year’s Party at Abbey House Hotel! The New Year’s Party is always a highlight in Barrow in Furness with special menus and a spectacular fireworks display.

    New Years Party Fireworks
    New Year’s Party Fireworks

    Our hotel in Barrow in Furness is the ideal getaway for a break over Christmas and New Years. Why not do something different this New Years and experience the Lake District and Cumbrian countryside? Explore the magical festive countryside or relax by a roaring log fire. Then enjoy an exciting New Year’s Party in Barrow in Furness with a spectacular fireworks display to see in the New Year with a bang. We have planned a special menu for New Years from our award winning restaurant, Oscar’s.  Please see our New Year’s 2015 Party page for more details.

    We hope that you will enjoy your Christmas and New Year’s holiday at Abbey House so much that you will return to experience Cumbria in the summer.  We don’t want you to miss out on your New Year’s break in Cumbria, so please feel free to enquire about New Year’s at Abbey House Hotel by either emailing the hotel on enquiries@abbeyhousehotel.com or visiting our on-line enquiry page here.

     

    I’m ready for my close-up!

    With the refurbishment of the hotel, the rebranding and the winning of ANOTHER award (yay), we thought it was due time that we have a new wedding brochure to really show off Abbey House Hotel to Brides and Grooms. This required us to take brand new photographs to include all the wonderful changes, so we set out and planned a bridal photo shoot.

    We included everything possible – cute, vintage buses, a luxurious Rolls Royce Phantom and (our favourite part of the day) a seriously cool helicopter that landed in the grounds! Not forgetting the stars of the show, Stacey and Richard who played happy couple, Bride and Groom for the day – they did have to be reminded a couple of times that this was supposed to be the happiest day of their lives…

    Luckily for us, we had the weather on our side which meant we could prance around the grounds all day, taking amazing pictures, showing off Abbey House Hotel!

    We will soon have the new pictures up on our website and a snazzy new wedding brochure online and in print! Watch this space!

    Thank you to everyone who contributed to the day – Cumbria Classic Vehicles, Esme Bridal Wear, Mr Mister, POSH Flowers, Stacey and Richard (Bride and Groom), Horgans, and Chris Holt for the helicopter!

    And of course Steve Hillman Wedding Photographer who was capturing the moment!