Cranage Estate is a hotel and wedding venue near Holmes Chapel in Cheshire. Now part of the De Vere group, it was originally built as an Elizabethan country manor house on land that had been occupied since the 12th century. Its mostable previous residents were the Armitstead family, who owned Cranage from 1814 to 1920, and were atypical of the landed gentry in that they were clergyman for several generations. Today the house and its 20 acres of surrounding gardens blend history with modernity, resulting in a superb wedding backdrop.
Cranage is licensed to hold civil ceremonies, which can take place in one of several rooms. The Appleton Suite is the standout. Located in the original manor house, it’s steeped in character and period features, such as a grand chandelier and original fireplace. It can hold between 10 and 70 guests for a civil ceremony and 40 guests if used for the wedding breakfast and evening reception. Ceremonies are also held in The Babbage. Housed in the original Elizabethan portion of the building, this can seat 10-50. Two further rooms cater for larger wedding parties. The Baird Suite benefits from the natural light afforded by its floor to ceiling windows, has direct access to the patio and can hold up to 160 guests. The Stephenson Suite is the largest room and has capacity for 250 guests. Outdoor ceremonies are also available and hosted in The Belvedere.
Food typically opens with canapes served during the post-ceremony drinks reception, such as black pudding and smoked bacon bonbons and prawn and coconut bhajis. Next is a three course wedding breakfast, an example menu from which is chicken and pistachio terrine to start, salmon en croute for main, and then citron tart for dessert. There’s also a vegan and children’s wedding breakfast menu. Evening food ensures the party continues well into the night. Options are broad, ranging from pizzas to a hog roast to lite bites.