Description
Welcome to The County Hotel – Your Perfect Wedding Venue in Chelmsford
Planning your wedding? The County Hotel blends timeless elegance with warm, personal service to create the ideal setting for your big day. Established in 1928 on the historic grounds of Old Rainsford Manor, we’ve proudly hosted countless weddings—each one as unique as the couple at its heart.
Located in the vibrant cathedral town of Chelmsford, our hotel offers the charm of a classic venue with the convenience of a city-center location. Plus, we’re just a 30-minute train ride from London, making it easy for your guests to join the celebration.
Your Ceremony and Reception Spaces
Your wedding should reflect your love story, whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration. Our licensed venue allows you to hold civil ceremonies and partnerships, so you can move seamlessly from your vows to your reception.
- The Crystal Ballroom: Our largest and most stunning space, perfect for up to 150 guests at a reception or 130 for a seated banquet.
- The Essex Room: Ideal for smaller weddings, hosting up to 50 guests for a standing reception or 40 for a seated dinner.
- Samphire Restaurant: For a unique dining experience, hire our in-house restaurant for up to 60 seated guests.
- Smaller Suites: The Suffolk, Kent, and Hertford rooms offer cozy, intimate settings for smaller ceremonies and celebrations.
Catering and Expert Service
Our dedicated wedding coordinator will guide you every step of the way—from your first inquiry to the last dance—ensuring your day runs smoothly and stress-free.
Enjoy a delicious menu crafted by our in-house catering team, featuring options like formal three-course wedding breakfasts or relaxed evening buffets. Sample dishes include twice-cooked pork belly and oven-baked fillet of seabream, finished with indulgent desserts such as steamed treacle sponge pudding.
Comfortable Accommodations for You and Your Guests
After celebrating, relax in one of our 50 stylish bedrooms or two modern apartments. As the happy couple, you’ll enjoy a complimentary overnight stay in one of our luxurious suites. Your guests can also take advantage of discounted room rates, making their stay comfortable and convenient.
At The County Hotel, we’re more than just a venue—we’re a passionate team dedicated to making your wedding day truly unforgettable. We can’t wait to help you create memories that last a lifetime.
Message from the team
Experience
Overview of The County Hotel, Chelmsford
Pricing for The County Hotel, Chelmsford
Reviews (2)
- BBoating Belle14/04/2023Stayed here to attend a weddingStayed here to attend a weddingStayed here to attend a wedding. Reception staff friendly and efficient. Room freshly decorated, warm with a great shower. We were a table of 8 in the restaurant on Friday evening and our waitress Mikele, did a superb job. I swear that girl was on roller skates and the food was very good too! Would not hesitate to stay again. Also ... quiet at night. Only downside breakfast on first morning was not hot enough but better on the second morning.Stayed here to attend a wedding. Reception staff friendly and efficient. Room freshly decorated, warm with a great shower. We were a table of 8 in the restaurant on Friday evening and our waitress Mikele, did a superb job. I swear that girl was on roller skates and the food was very good too! Would not hesitate to stay again. Also ... quiet at night. Only downside breakfast on first morning was not hot enough but better on the second morning.
- MMrs Patel14/04/2023Stayed for one night after attending wedding reception at Hylands houseStayed for one night after attending wedding reception at Hylands houseStayed for one night after attending wedding reception at Hylands house. Comfortable room plus we had a folding bed for our 3yr old grandson. Had to pay for breakfast and it was very good. Yes would recommend to family and friends.Stayed for one night after attending wedding reception at Hylands house. Comfortable room plus we had a folding bed for our 3yr old grandson. Had to pay for breakfast and it was very good. Yes would recommend to family and friends.
Location & Contact Details for The County Hotel, Chelmsford
What types of wedding ceremonies can be held at The County Hotel, Chelmsford?
The County Hotel is a licensed venue allowing you to hold civil ceremonies and partnerships, enabling a seamless transition from your vows to your reception within the same elegant setting.
How many guests can The County Hotel accommodate for wedding receptions?
The venue offers several spaces:
- The Crystal Ballroom accommodates up to 150 guests for receptions or 130 for seated banquets.
- The Essex Room is ideal for smaller weddings with up to 50 guests for standing receptions or 40 for seated dinners.
- Samphire Restaurant can host up to 60 seated guests for a unique dining experience.
- For intimate ceremonies, smaller suites like Suffolk, Kent, and Hertford rooms provide cozy settings.
Does The County Hotel offer catering services for weddings?
Yes, the hotel has an in-house catering team that provides delicious menu options ranging from formal three-course wedding breakfasts to relaxed evening buffets. Sample dishes include twice-cooked pork belly, oven-baked fillet of seabream, and steamed treacle sponge pudding for dessert.
Is there a dedicated wedding coordinator to assist with planning?
The County Hotel provides a dedicated wedding coordinator who supports you from your initial inquiry through to the last dance, ensuring your wedding day runs smoothly and stress-free.
Are accommodations available for the couple and their guests at The County Hotel?
The hotel offers 50 stylish bedrooms and two modern apartments. The happy couple receives a complimentary overnight stay in a luxurious suite, while guests benefit from discounted room rates for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Where is The County Hotel located and how accessible is it?
The County Hotel is situated in Chelmsford, Essex (postcode CM1 2PZ), in the vibrant cathedral town city centre. It is conveniently only a 30-minute train ride from London, making it easily accessible for guests travelling from the city.
What is the history and ambiance of The County Hotel as a wedding venue?
Established in 1928 on the historic grounds of Old Rainsford Manor, The County Hotel blends timeless elegance with warm, personal service, providing a classic and charming atmosphere ideal for weddings that are as unique as each couple.
Can The County Hotel accommodate both large and small wedding celebrations?
Absolutely. The venue offers a variety of event spaces suitable for intimate gatherings in the smaller suites or grand celebrations in the Crystal Ballroom, ensuring your wedding reflects your personal love story.
What dining experiences does The Samphire Restaurant offer for wedding receptions?
Samphire Restaurant can be hired to provide a unique dining experience for weddings, seating up to 60 guests with bespoke menus crafted by the in-house catering team, perfect for couples seeking an intimate yet exceptional reception setting.
How does The County Hotel support making a wedding day memorable?
The County Hotel combines a passionate, professional team with elegant venues, expert catering, dedicated coordination, and comfortable accommodation to ensure your wedding day is truly unforgettable and filled with cherished memories.
