SPOTLIGHT ON MANCHESTER

Spotlight on... CITY OF MANCHESTER

HOPE MILL THEATRE, M4 7JA

0161 275 9141 | www.hopemilltheatre.co.uk

Nestled into Ancoat’s industrial landscape, the contrast of old mills, factories and canal networks against the striking modern architecture creates a charming setting for Hope Mill Theatre. Just a stone’s throw away from Manchester city centre, this epitome of old meets new is well connected and a vibrant place to host a wedding. The Grade II* listed building is a repurposed cotton mill with iconic red brick peppered with industrial sash windows that line the approach to the venue’s original wooden doors and festoon lit façade.

The interior was designed to acknowledge the industrial history that Manchester is famous for. Exposed brickwork and high ceilings create an urban chic backdrop whilst plush fabrics and vintage theatre chairs give a nod to the theatrical repurposing of this grand building. The raw interior is ideal for couples looking for a blank canvas with complete freedom to style the space as they wish.

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Ceremonies can take place inside the former engine room of the mill, now the bar, which has exposed brickwork, an airy atmosphere and a sense of rustic opulence that only requires small embellishments to elevate the space. The room is ideal for more intimate services seating 70 guests comfortably.

Inside the theatre is a blank slate with room for 120 loved ones. There are high ceilings with beams, perfect for hanging fl oral installations and lights. The theatre can easily be transformed into a beautiful reception area to suit any couple’s style, and lighting can be used to create a soft, intimate atmosphere. WE LOVE...

The bar area features original pillars and exposed brickwork. Arches create interest and soften the starkness of the industrial design, and large gold mirrors add sophistication and refl ect the warm light from the metallic caged pendants. The entrance hall features a stunning mural giving a nod to the theatrical heart of the building and contrasts the blank canvas of the theatre space.

THE PORTICO LIBRARY, M2 3HY

0161 236 6785 | www.theportico.org.uk

The Portico Library is a striking Grade II* listed building designed in a Neoclassical Greek revival style. The venue is one of the few surviving Georgian buildings in central Manchester still serving its original purpose. Inside the impressive and enchanting rooms is more than 200 years of history and culture, with a spectacular painted glass dome ceiling surrounded by original Regency-period floor-to-ceiling bookshelves. The gallery space features a working wind dial, mural portraits of Milton and Shakespeare and a clock face created by the Big Ben clockmakers. The venue’s façade features impressive original Greek-style columns and classical stone steps.

www.jennyappleton.co.uk

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Intimate weddings of up to 30 guests take place in the historic Reading Room, followed by a drinks reception under the painted glass dome ceiling with up to 50 loved ones.

Due to limited kitchen facilities, the venue cannot host receptions but it’s perfect for gorgeous ceremonies.

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The property contains a unique book collection spanning 450 years, including first editions of works by Charlotte Brontë, Elizabeth Gaskell and Thomas Hardy.

CONCORDE CONFERENCE CENTRE, WA15 8XQ

0161 489 8299

The Hangar is part of the Runway Visitor Park, located in the grounds of Manchester Airport, and is a light and spacious venue spanning over 1,600 square meters. Purposely built to house the iconic G-BOAC British Airways Concorde, the space creates an unforgettable backdrop for any wedding. The large wall of windows allows a glimpse of the iconic aircraft as guests approach the entrance, and there are also several other interesting aircraft to discover on the grounds, including a former RAF plane. Elizabeth II, and can hold intimate ceremonies on board of up to 36 people.

Alternatively, couples can tie the knot underneath the wings of the Concorde surrounded by up to 600 friends and family. The Hangar offers a unique opportunity to hold your reception directly under the wings of the world-famous plane. This coupled with the venue’s hospitality, ensures the day will be one to remember.

Hallé St Peter's is situated in the centre of Manchester, at the heart of the resurgent area of Ancoats, a unique venue. Following a multi-million-pound refurbishment and extension project the deconsecrated church and new Oglesby Centre have been transformed into an elegant venue ideal for weddings. An elegant interior is complemented by breathtaking architecture and original features, creating the perfect setting for your wedding day. Raise a toast before the impressive backdrop of this elegant venue and immerse yourself in the luxury of the incredible setting. Our inhouse wedding team will be on hand to help you create the day of your dreams. Whether you're looking to put your own personal touches, or would prefer a more traditional look, we can help and take care of all the details, so you can just relax and enjoy the day. We can accommodate up to 250 guests in our main space, a flexible area where we host your Wedding Ceremony and Reception. On the first floor overlooking Ancoats Square the Victoria Wood Hall is perfect for your drinks reception and canapés. On the ground floor looking out to Ancoats Square our new Hallé Kitchen is the perfect setting for your guests to enjoy their drinks before the Wedding Breakfast. The large glass retractable doors can be fully opened up to bring the outside in. Our inhouse caterers, Chapman Holmes have been consistently excelling and exceeding the highest expectations of their wedding couples for 30 years. From popular menus to completely personalise bespoke fair we use the absolute best of ingredients, prepared to perfection and artistically presented.

VICTORIA BATHS, M13 0FE

0161 224 2020 | www.victoriabaths.org.uk

Victoria Baths is a Grade II* listed Edwardian former swimming pool and Turkish Baths with stunning glazed tiles, ornate ironwork and original features throughout, creating a spectacular backdrop for weddings. Victoria Baths Trust is a registered charity where all the money raised through its activities, including weddings, are used for the upkeep and ongoing restoration of the property.

First opening to the public in 1906, the venue was described as Manchester’s “water palace” and is particularly renowned for its wall tiles, mosaic fl oors and stained-glass windows. Outside, the red brickwork and intricate terracotta of Victoria Bath’s façade makes it instantly recognisable. The impressive exterior is grandly symmetrical, with the clock tower as the crowning glory, and it has the instant wow factor with intricate features such as mermaids catching starfi sh above the doorway. CELEBRATE IN STYLE

Weddings can take place in a choice of fi ve spaces. The iconic Gala Pool with original seating balconies and changing cubicles, the multifunctional Sports Hall, formerly known as the Male Second Class Pool, and the Female Pool are all vast spaces. In addition to the pool halls, there is the light and airy Pineapple Room and the opulent Turkish Rest Room, which includes a whole wall of stained glass windows in which the Angel of Purity takes centre stage.

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When booking, couples will receive a year’s free membership of the Friends of Victoria Baths, which includes free entry to events, guided building tours, occasional discounts and early access to special event tickets.

ROYAL EXCHANGE THEATRE, M2 7DH

0161 615 6763 | www.royalexchange.co.uk

Located in the heart of the city centre, the Royal Exchange Theatre is close to main transport links and luxury hotels. There are two striking entrances, one of which leads onto St Ann’s Square, a pedestrianised area that’s ideal for outdoor photographs. The modern steel and glass theatre sits within the Great Hall’s marble columns and has domed ceilings that are a part of Manchester’s rich history. Offering the perfect balance of old and new, the property is an elegant backdrop for weddings and celebrations.

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The Exchange Suite, a grand space set over two fl oors, has a doubleheight reception space, a sweeping staircase and room for 35 guests for the ceremony and 22 seated for dinner.

Alternatively, the Front Room is a light space with windows on both sides that overlook St Ann’s Square and look internally into the Great Hall. Boasting a private bar and step-free access, the room can accommodate 70 friends and family for the service and 60 seated for the wedding breakfast.

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The venue offers access to the roof terrace, which has beautiful views across the city centre towards the hills of Lancashire, Cheshire and Yorkshire. The couple will also receive a theatre membership when booking their wedding.

STOCK EXCHANGE HOTEL, M2 1DW

0161 470 3901 | www.stockexchangehotel.co.uk

The Manchester Stock Exchange was built between 1904 and 1906 using a design by Bradshaw Gass and Hope and was opened ceremoniously on the 13th December, 1906. This exquisite example of Edwardian Baroque architecture was purpose-built as a symbol of confi dence in the future of Manchester, which at the time was the 9th most popular city in the world. The Stock Exchange Hotel pays homage to the rich history of the Grade II listed building both in style and spirit. Located in the heart of Manchester, the property is an ideal base from which to explore all the city has to offer. The inside has been designed by internationally renowned, multidisciplinary studio Autoban. A subtle arrangement of a light colours, combined with luxurious materials, original marble, brass, woodwork and timeless décor have all been inspired by the building’s heritage.

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The happy couple can tie the knot in a choice of three spaces; The Vault, which can accommodate 120 guests, The Bull & Bear or The Bank, both with space for 14 loved ones for dinner.

The hotel is available for exclusive buyouts, which includes access to the whole building, including the 40 bedrooms and restaurant.

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When booking, lovebirds will receive a complimentary upgrade (subject to availability) and preferential room rates for guests.

DIDSBURY HOUSE, M20 5LJ

0161 448 2200 | www.didsburyhouse.co.uk

Didsbury House, originally known as Park House, is a Grade II listed building dating back to the 1890s. The luxury Victorian townhouse is a statement in individual design, bringing infl uences from around the world to the fashionable suburb of Didsbury. The property features 27 bedrooms, a residents’ bar and lounges, that refl ect the hotel’s electric design and provide a chic urban retreat for weddings. The owner and designer worked with the original features of the house to maintain and showcase the wonderful work that originally went into creating Park House.

Situated in leafy surroundings, the hotel is just four miles from Manchester city centre and Manchester Airport, with easy access to the M60. Outside is a walled terrace, which is ideal for taking photographs or enjoying a drinks reception. CELEBRATE IN STYLE

Ceremonies at Didsbury House take place in the Blue Room, which has a capacity of up to 80 guests. The space has original features, including large bay windows that overlook the gardens, cornicing and a fi replace.

Receptions are held in the Blue Room and Gold Lounge. Alternatively, couples looking for a more informal option can hire the whole hotel exclusively for up to 120 friends and family.

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