Venue Showcase: The Timeless Elegance of The Old Hall Ely

We’re shining a light on The Old Hall Ely, an exclusive-use destination wedding venue which epitomises timeless elegance and romantic grandeur. We also talk to Becca Haswell, the venue’s Events & Sales Administrator, to get her unique insights and expert advice. Nestled amidst immaculate grounds and boasting classic interiors, this family-owned Jacobean Manor House offers the perfect backdrop for an enchanting wedding celebration. Get ready to make magical memories that will stand the test of time for all involved. 

Highlights of the venue

As a family-owned venue since 1830, now headed by Alison Morbey and her daughter Antonia, this is a venue where warmth and romance meet grandeur and luxury. In the words of Becca Haswell, the venue’s Events & Sales Administrator, it’s this unique combination which makes The Old Hall Ely so special. It’s a venue which holds many fond memories of the happy childhood spent by the Morbey family. For example, Becca explains that the house bar originally belonged to the children of the family, and that every detail, from the colour of the walls to the light fixtures and the garden trees, is all beautifully selected by Alison Morbey herself, who still works at the venue every day.  

The Old Hall Ely are also award winners, most notably:

 

• Platinum Bridebook Award 2023
• Top 100 in the KAYAK Travel Awards 2021
• Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Excellence Award 2021
• Muddy Stilettos ‘Best Wedding Venue’ Suffolk & Cambs Award Winner 2021

A manor of grandeur

The Jacobean Manor House stands as a rare beacon of timeless beauty, surrounded by manicured gardens overlooking three stunning ornamental lakes and the majestic Ely Cathedral. It’s an exclusive-use venue, so you can enjoy access to the entire Manor House, as well as its 16 hotel rooms and immaculate grounds, for both the day and night of your wedding. You can further elevate your experience by staying the night before your big day as well, adding an extra touch of luxury and extending your celebrations. 

Seasonal splendour

The Old Hall Ely is captivating in every season, offering a picturesque backdrop for your wedding day. From blooming gardens in spring to summer soirées on their patios and terraces, and emotive autumn skies to winter wonderlands with roaring fires and twenty Christmas trees, the venue transforms into a magical setting regardless of the weather or season. Whether indoor or outdoor, The Old Hall Ely exudes both charm and beauty at every turn.

Exceptional service

As a family-owned venue, service is at the heart of the experience. Their dedicated team of event managers ensures your wedding day is stress-free and unique, allowing you to savour every moment of your celebration. They’re committed to going above and beyond to make sure that planning your big day is a magical and exciting experience. On top of that, their team of exceptional chefs will collaborate with you to craft the perfect menu, tailored exactly to your tastes.

Meet the team behind the venue

Prior to working at The Old Hall Ely, Becca Haswell had no previous experience within the wedding industry specifically, but has since fallen completely in love with it. In her own words, “How could you not love to work at a beautiful wedding venue and be surrounded by happy people celebrating one of the most important days of someone’s life? The best part is being part of the journey, from seeing an excited couple first arrive at their private show round, to then watching them walk down the aisle.”

When asked about her most memorable wedding, Becca explains, “The most exciting part is that every wedding is so different and it is so lovely to see. From brides and bridesmaids arriving in helicopters to a carousel in the garden, to roaming bands to the perfect sparkler shots on our beautiful Cathedral Terrace.