Your Cheshire & Merseyside Wedding - Jan/Feb 2020 (Issue 49)

W e arrived at Oddfellows On The Park on a miserable day eager to check in. The fact that we were too early, was a blessing in disguise as it gave us an excellent excuse to kill time with some retail therapy. We headed over to Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet, which is just over 45 minutes away from the hotel, and returned later laden with shopping bags and ready for relaxation. WHERE OLD MEETS NEW The exterior’s original 19th-century façade, belies its modern interior design. As we were being checked in my eyes were already being pulled into several directions. From the exquisite Victorian-style tiled floor, and contemporary chandelier, to the oddball assortment of paintings leading up the stairs, the hotel immediately fascinates and intrigues. Quirky, eccentric and charming are the bywords here, nodding deftly towards the organisation that inspires this hotel group. The Oddfellows was known as the society of misfits. Not a place for traditional professionals they embraced the philosophers, idealists and dreamers of the world. Bruntwood Hall, which now houses Oddfellows on the Park was built in Gothic style by stuff merchant John Douglas in 1861. Its second owner, Major James Platt, was known locally as The Galloping Major and used the surrounding grounds as an equestrian stud. He extended the original Hall to include the sprung ballroom, now home to restaurant that’s named after him. Since then, it’s seen various uses from WWII hospital to recording studio. I mention the Hall’s varied history because every former resident has left their own mark, and each design contribution has been lovingly restored to form part of the hotel’s fabric, successfully juxtaposing the old with the new. Mum and I were to spend the night in one of the Playground Suites, with a four-poster bed at its centre, and charming design quirks at every turn. Jumping onto the inviting kingsize mattress, immediately disappearing into a mountain of cushions was probably a mistake, as I really didn’t want to move. Nevertheless, I’d been looking forward to dinner, and The Galloping Major was calling, so move I did. WINED AND DINED What instantly struck me as I entered the restaurant was the breathtaking and ornate plasterwork ceiling. Beautifully restored in a gorgeous shade of soft green, I couldn’t help but think it would be the perfect complement to most wedding colour palettes. You can in fact host your wedding breakfast here for 45 guests, with views across Bruntwood Park. Neither of us relished the idea of having to choose from such a delicious sounding menu. The solution? Well, the ‘Taste of Everything’ menu of course! Five courses plus amuse and pre-dessert, every dish sounded heavenly. We started with leek and potato, cider and goat’s curd, which was followed by braised oxtail consommé with carrot. The flavours were rich and indulgent – so far, so amazing! Next up was cod with black peas, celeriac chips and white bait. The last of the savoury dishes was duck with pea, prune and almond. We finished off the meal with a delectable milk chocolate and praline tart, paired with coffee ice cream. Every bite of the tasting menu had been incredible, and we weren’t ready to go to bed just yet, so we headed into the Stud Room Bar for a cocktail or two. Seduced by the sound of their Signature Shakes, we opted for the salted caramel white Russian, before heading to bed slightly fuzzy-headed! YOUR BIG DAY The next morning after breakfast, we got to sneak a peak at the venue’s wedding spaces. The best thing about which is the fact that there’s only ever one wedding party per day. If you did want to take that one step further, there’s also the option of the exclusive use package giving you use of all 22 bedrooms as well as the function space. The Parlour Rooms, where the great and the good would historically have been welcomed, are simply gorgeous offering stunning views across the parkland, as well as access to it via The Terrace. Heated awnings cover the latter, so come rain or shine, it’s a wonderful space for you and your guests to enjoy. The Parlour Rooms can play host to 80 ceremony guests, 64 for banqueting, and 100 for drinks and mingling. The neighbouring Parlour Bar is also available as an extension to your celebrations, or can be used as an intimate dining space for 10 if that’s what suits. It’s also worth noting that the incredible head chef will personally design your W-day menu. Warmed by the charm of the place, and relaxed by it’s effortlessly laid-back atmosphere, we left Oddfellows On The Park with smiles on our faces. FIND OUT MORE… oddfellowsonthepark.com events@oddfellowsonthepark.com 0161 697 3006 Editor Kelly Andrews enjoyed a relaxing night’s stay at the quirky Oddfellows on the Park, Cheadle BY DESIGN Charming 30