If the walls could tell stories, Dunadry Hotel and Gardens would have a few. Dating back to the 1600s this iconic building has had a colourful past as a paper mill followed by a linen mill, before taking on life as a hotel. Conveniently located in the heart of Northern Ireland, this iconic four-star venue is only a 10-minute drive from Belfast International Airport, making it convenient for travelling guests to get to. In line with embracing the history of Dunadry’s past, weddings have become such a huge part of its present, having won Best Wedding Venue in County Antrim for 2022 and 2023 in the NI Wedding Awards. Since 2004 the hotel has been getting couples to sign corks from champagne bottles on the day of their wedding, which are then housed in cabinets around the hotel. This has become an iconic asset to the hotel that couples return to see many years after their wedding, they really do become part of the family. Like any family, every member is different, and at Dunadry Hotel and Gardens we pride ourselves on asking couples what they want. Everyone’s day is special and should be as a unique reflection of the couple. Although the hotel has wedding packages, these are just samples of what might work for you and can be mixed, matched or changed to suit your wedding desires. From the ceremony to the drinks reception to the menu and party, each element can be adapted to work exactly how you want. If it is possible, Dunadry will give it a go. Here at the Dunadry Hotel And Gardens we offer everything on site for your convenience. There is the stunningly tranquil Secret Garden with its outdoor elegance, and although beautiful in its raw state, it provides the perfect backdrop for your special theme. Or perhaps the River Room, beautifully situated on the Six Mile Water. This wooden paneled room frames the stunning view and can be as simple or sensational as you want. There is also the Gallery, a quirky alternative ceremony entrance – a stunning staircase as the aisle, creating drama and anticipation in the moments leading up to a fairytale ceremony. There is also plenty of rooms for guests to stay over. With 72 bedrooms on site, having everything and everyone under one roof just makes sense, and often people turn it into a two- or three-day celebration. No matter the season or the forecast, there are ample picture-worthy places to capture your memories, from the indoors at the Dundadry’s iconic fireplace and stunning Gallery staircase to the outdoors most beautiful areas, including the Tree of Unity, the River Walk. Depending on your wedding theme, there are creative ways to welcome your guests with your drinks reception. Should this be set within the iconic Copper Bar, a private room, or outdoors in the courtyard, each area will be sure to offer a relaxing and enjoyable experience for your guests whilst you pop away for some photographs in the beautiful surroundings. From the traditional champagne reception to your favourite, beer, cider, cocktail or mocktail, our team at the Dunadry will ensure the drinks are flowing and represent exactly what you want. Head Chef Greg Ferguson leads a talented team who have created some wonderful wedding menus that can be adapted to ensure your delicious favourites are included in your special celebration. Whether a large celebration or an intimate gathering, the Dunadry Hotel And Gardens has the perfect room to host your celebration. The Grand Ballroom, the River Room, the Beetling or a marquee in the garden – whatever your dream in terms of intimacy, grandeur, rustic or modern, indoors or out – there is an option for you. And the party does not have to stop on the evening of the wedding. To meet popular demand, the Dunadry Hotel and Gardens can also host a post-wedding celebration, very often a barbecue, offering a more casual feel while keeping the party going. Or alternatively, pre-wedding celebrations – bringing together the couple’s families and friends to get to know each other the night before the wedding. For more information: tel 028 9443 4343; email: weddings@ dunadry.com; or visit: www.dunadry.com
