Nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire, the Macdonald Bear Hotel is a charming, historic venue with a perfect blend of elegance and character, making it an exceptional choice for couples seeking an intimate, romantic wedding venue. Situated in the picturesque town of Woodstock, just moments from the grand Blenheim Palace, the Macdonald Bear Hotel combines stunning period features, impeccable service, and tailored packages to create a wedding day that’s truly unique.
Historic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
Macdonald Bear Hotel is housed in a beautiful 13th-century coaching inn, where original architectural details take you back in time while providing all the amenities expected of a modern venue. With its beautiful sandstone walls, timber-beamed ceilings, and quaint fireplaces, every inch of this hotel exudes warmth and charm. Stepping through its doors feels like a journey into history, making it an ideal setting for those wanting a venue with genuine character.
Flexible Ceremony and Reception Spaces
The Bear Hotel offers a variety of spaces designed for intimate gatherings. Whether you envision a cozy indoor ceremony or an outdoor celebration, the hotel can accommodate your needs. The venue is licensed for civil ceremonies, allowing couples to have both their ceremony and reception in one stunning location. The Churchill Lounge and adjoining courtyard provide an idyllic setting for a reception, while the cozy banquet rooms and elegant décor create a perfect space for an evening celebration.
For smaller weddings, the Little Barn provides an intimate atmosphere with a guest capacity of up to 60 for dining and 100 for a standing reception. Each space is meticulously decorated, creating a charming and inviting ambiance that’s ideal for celebrating with close friends and family.
Breathtaking Backdrops for Photos
With Blenheim Palace on its doorstep and the quaint streets of Woodstock nearby, Macdonald Bear Hotel offers a wealth of photogenic locations. The hotel’s beautiful courtyard and classic English gardens are ideal spots for wedding photos. Blenheim Palace’s grand architecture and the lush, natural beauty of the surrounding parkland provide an unbeatable backdrop for portraits, group shots, and candid moments.
Tailored Wedding Packages
The Bear Hotel specializes in creating bespoke wedding experiences, allowing couples to tailor packages to their needs. The team works with you to arrange every detail, from the reception layout to the cuisine options. The hotel offers a variety of packages that include canapés, a three-course wedding breakfast, a glass of prosecco for toasts, and a feature suite for the happy couple. Starting at £75 per person, these packages are flexible and cater to a range of budgets without compromising on quality.
Exceptional Dining Experience
Wedding catering is handled by the Bear Hotel’s talented culinary team, who are known for their delicious, carefully crafted menus. Guests can enjoy exquisite dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, creating a culinary experience that is both elegant and memorable. The wedding breakfast options are diverse and include a range of canapés, a multi-course meal, and a selection of wines from the hotel’s in-house list.
Guests often rave about the Beef Wellington, a dish that’s become a favorite among wedding parties. For midnight treats, mini burgers and other fun options keep the energy high for an evening of celebration.
Comfortable and Elegant Accommodation
Macdonald Bear Hotel offers 54 elegant, individually styled rooms that blend the building’s historic charm with modern amenities. This allows couples and their guests to relax and unwind after a night of celebration. The rooms range from classic rooms to luxurious suites, perfect for hosting out-of-town guests. The highlight is the famous bridal suite, a luxurious room that Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton once stayed in during their visit to Woodstock.
Dedicated Wedding Planning Services
Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, but Macdonald Bear Hotel’s experienced wedding team takes the stress out of the process. From the moment you book, the dedicated wedding coordinator is on hand to help you navigate every detail. They’re experienced in working with couples to create weddings that reflect their personal style and preferences, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Convenient Location with Accessibility
Located in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, Macdonald Bear Hotel is easily accessible for guests traveling from afar. It’s just a short drive from Oxford and within easy reach of the M40 motorway, making it convenient for guests coming from London or other parts of the UK. With Oxford Airport nearby, even international guests can arrive with ease.
Reviews from Happy Couples
Many couples who’ve chosen the Bear Hotel rave about its charm and exceptional service. Here are a few snippets from recent reviews:
“Our wedding day was beautiful and stress-free thanks to the incredible team at the Bear. The Churchill room looked stunning, and the food was exceptional!”
“Every detail was perfect. The staff was attentive, the setting was gorgeous, and our guests couldn’t stop talking about how delicious the meal was.”
These reviews speak to the Macdonald Bear Hotel’s reputation as a venue that goes above and beyond to make every wedding special.
Final Thoughts
For couples seeking a wedding venue that combines historic charm, flexibility, and dedicated service, the Macdonald Bear Hotel in Woodstock is a wonderful choice. From its elegant accommodations and stunning setting to the top-tier dining experience and attentive staff, every aspect is designed to ensure a memorable day. With packages that cater to a range of budgets and customizable options to suit any vision, the Bear Hotel is an enchanting choice for a wedding that feels both classic and uniquely personal.
Whether you’re dreaming of a cozy winter wedding by the fire or a summer celebration in the garden, Macdonald Bear Hotel provides an unforgettable backdrop for your special day.
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