An iconic North Yorkshire hotel has hosted its first large event after reopening as a luxury wedding and events venue earlier this year.
Recently acquired by Rebecca Hill and Chris Layton, The Old Deanery, in Ripon, is set to become a sought-after location for weddings, birthday parties and celebrations alike after extensive renovations to the Jacobean era mansion.
The first event hosted was for a 50th birthday party, with the afternoon celebrations comprising a home-made Yorkshire feast by Steph Moon, the consultant chef of Galtres Lodge’s Forest restaurant in York - which is also owned by Rebecca and Chris.
The offerings included a posh prawn and crayfish cocktail with celeriac remoulade and a parmesan crisp, a traditional roast sirloin of local beef, and a trio of “back-to-school” style taster puddings. Guests then danced the night away to tunes compiled by Mark Green, a local DJ and an established figure in the Yorkshire community.
Located opposite the beautiful Ripon cathedral, the historic building now boasts 10 individually-styled bedrooms complete with stunning grounds and gardens, having been renovated for weddings and exclusive events. In addition to the main function room, the building boasts a grand reception area (complete with a red-carpet entrance).
Hill said, “We were over the moon to host our first large event following an extensive renovation and couldn’t have asked for better guests to celebrate this milestone with.
“The family requested quality food and service but wished for it to be delivered in an informal and relaxed setting so that guests could feel at ease and enjoy the celebrations, which suits our style perfectly.
'It was also lovely to catch up with the DJ for the evening, Mark, having recently joined him on BBC Breakfast to discuss the impact of the pandemic on the area.”
She continued, “With The Old Deanery having opened its doors to guests at the start of 2022, we’re off to an amazing start - this is the first event in a run of many upcoming special weddings and celebrations that will take place over the next few weeks.
'We are very much on track to achieving our initial goal of The Old Deanery being the place to celebrate important life events in Ripon and the wider region.'
Hill closed, “We’ve been overwhelmed with enquiries and bookings, but as we took on an empty diary, we still have great availability for special occasions such as birthdays, christenings and weddings. We look forward to ensuring couples and guests alike have a special, unique, and unforgettable day!”