Co. Down CRAWFORDSBURN

Old Inn, The

The Old Inn

The pretty village setting of this famous and hospitable 16th century inn - the oldest in continuous use in all Ireland - belies its convenient location close to Belfast. The hotel overlooks the wooded glen of Crawfordsburn Country Park at the back and has an attractive garden which is popular for photographs.

Old beams, antiques and gas lighting emphasise the natural character of the building, and a welcoming fire and friendly staff in the cosy reception area set the tone for the whole hotel, which is full of charm, very comfortable - and always smartly presented. Wedding blessings are not possible here, but there are four churches within five minutes’ drive of the hotel.

It is a charmingly old-world venue for an intimate wedding, with two function suites to choose from - the White Suite for small weddings of up 30 guests, and the Waterfall Suite for up to 120 - and the possibility of a marquee, which can be booked locally if required.

The wedding venues  planner, Jill Graham, is on hand from the outset to guide each couple through to a stress-free wedding day, and there are no seasonal restrictions except that the hotel closes for Christmas Day - but it is worthwhile considering a midweek wedding when a £300 reduction is offered for the hire of the Waterfall Suite.

Bedrooms are individually decorated and, due to the age of the building, vary in size and style - most have antiques, some have romantic four-posters and a few have private sitting rooms; accommodation for the bride and groom is complimentary for weddings with at least 50 guests.  

The Old Inn