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When it comes to British traditions, few are as heartwarming as afternoon tea. Right here in Cirencester, Stratton House Hotel and Spa invites you to experience this cherished tradition. Have you ever wondered where this delightful custom comes from? As afternoon tea enthusiasts ourselves, let's take a relaxed look at the history of Britain's favourite afternoon pick-me-up. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, afternoon tea is simply "a light meal eaten in the afternoon, usually with tea, sandwiches, scones, and cakes." While some places stick to the classics, our Afternoon Teas are elegantly served on tiers, and jazzed up with homemade savoury offerings and even a glass of fizz for those feeling fancy! Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect from a Stratton House Afternoon Tea: The Tea: We offer the following loose-leaf teas. Bold Breakfast Tea, for those who love a strong brew! Earl Grey, a delicate but fragrant tea Masala Chai, a warming traditional blend Jasmine Blossom, light and refreshing with beautiful aromas Orange Spice Rooibos, is organic and comforting for Chai lovers. Lemon & Ginger Zing Infusion, for an uplifting and invigorating kick. Raspberry Lemonade, is an unusual but tasty mix of fruits. Do Not Disturb Infusion, an ayurvedic blend designed to promote holistic well-being and relaxation an ideal choice following your spa treatments. The Scones: Our fruit and plain scones are always fresh and expertly baked in-house here at the hotel and of course, include fresh fruit jam and indulgent clotted cream. The Sandwiches: Beautifully presented finger sandwiches with the crusts neatly trimmed, filled with our chef's delicious fillings. The Cakes: These are always varied, from mini desserts and yummy seasonal cakes to handmade sweet pastries. The Savouries: Expect offerings such as finger-sized handmade sausage rolls, and mini traditional quiches. When's the Best Time for Afternoon Tea? Well, the Duchess of Bedford had her tea around 4 pm to stave off hunger until her late dinner at 8 pm. But you can enjoy afternoon tea at Stratton House from 2:30 pm to 5:30 pm priced at £19.95 per person. If you’re celebrating something special or would just like to elevate your experience with a glass of Prosecco you can add a little sparkle for an extra £5 per person. We even offer a Children's Afternoon Tea priced at £8.95 per child, which includes a yummy selection of sweet treats, half homemade fruit scones with fruited preserves & clotted cream, delicious sandwiches and their choice of fruit juice. Afternoon Tea in the Cotswolds If you're wondering where to enjoy afternoon tea in the Cotswolds, Stratton House is a beautifully refurbished Georgian mansion where you can indulge in afternoon tea in an elegant lounge. Celebrate birthdays, anniversaries, or baby showers with our afternoon tea packages. Our friendly staff are here to make your afternoon tea experience unforgettable without breaking the bank, providing a luxurious treat for the cost of a regular restaurant meal. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply catching up with a friend over tea and scones, give us a call at 01285 651761 or email reception@strattonhousehotel.com with at least 24 hours' notice to secure your spot. Cotswold Afternoon Tea Gift Vouchers Looking for a delightful way to show your appreciation or celebrate a special occasion? Our Cotswold Afternoon Tea Gift Vouchers offer the perfect solution. Purchasing and redeeming the voucher is a breeze. To buy simply click the link below. All the recipient needs to do is contact us at least 24 hours in advance, allowing us to prepare for their visit and ensure every detail is perfect. It's a hassle-free experience, tailored to make them feel truly special. Go ahead and surprise your loved ones with a Cotswold Afternoon Tea Voucher. Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, or just a gesture to show you care.

When staying at Stratton House Hotel, you'll find yourself conveniently located near various family-friendly venues that are perfect for an enjoyable day out with your loved ones. From engaging activities to educational experiences, there are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. Birdland, nestled within nine acres of enchanting gardens and woodland along the meandering River Windrush, you'll encounter over 500 avian wonders. Explore the riverside habitats where flamingos, pelicans, cranes, and various waterfowl reside, their vibrant plumage adding a splash of colour to the scenery. Engage with England's only breeding group of King Penguins and witness the delightful antics of the African Penguins. Journey through the Out of Africa area to encounter a diverse array of birds from the continent. Delve into the woodland, where life-sized dinosaurs lurk between the trees in the Jurassic Journey area, transporting you back in time. Be captivated by the vibrant and colourful parrots, from macaws to lorikeets, in the Pandemonium of Parrots. Birdland promises an unforgettable experience, blending nature, history, and the awe-inspiring beauty of our feathered friends. Step into a wild adventure at The Cotswold Wildlife Park Get up close to giraffes, watch rhinos graze on the lawns, walk with lemurs, and ride Bella the Train (April-Oct). With 260 species in 120 acres, there's plenty of space to relax and enjoy wildlife. Kids will love the adventure playground, farmyard, penguin and lemur feedings. Explore reptiles, insect and bat houses, and the lush Tropical House. Experience the beauty of themed gardens, meerkat habitats, and seasonal displays. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through nature's wonders! Discover the enchanting Model Village in Bourton on the Water, the only grade II listed model village in the country. Crafted from Cotswold stone, this one-ninth scale replica faithfully captures the essence of the actual village, complete with a miniature model village nestled within. The River Windrush gracefully flows beneath Bourton's iconic bridges, offering a picturesque backdrop to the meticulously crafted miniature landscape adorned with beech, cherry, and chestnut trees. Immerse yourself in the charm as you listen to music emanating from the tiny model church and explore the winding lanes, peering into the intricately designed buildings. The Swindon & Cricklade Railway stands as a remarkable achievement in heritage railway preservation. As one of the first railways to embark on a complete reconstruction of a standard-gauge railway from scratch, they proudly commemorated their 40th anniversary in 2018. Visitors can embark on memorable round-trip journeys spanning approximately 4.5 miles, aboard charming steam and diesel hauled trains that traverse between Blunsdon and Hayes Knoll Stations. For an extended adventure, an additional route leads south to Taw Valley Halt, conveniently accessible at Mouldon Hill Country Park in North Swindon. Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere of this exceptional railway experience. Rugrats and Half Pints in Cirencester is a one-of-a-kind children's play center, offering a delightful array of sensory and soft play activities for kids aged from birth to 13 years old. For the littlest ones, there's a spacious sensory area complete with captivating elements like bubble tubes, infinity tunnels, and touch walls, all nestled in the safety of an enclosed soft play space. Toddlers will have a blast exploring the brand new toddler frame, with added features like ball jugglers, ball pool, and a fun track with slides and activity boards. Older children can release their energy by bouncing on trampolines and engaging in traditional soft play. Thrilling features such as fast slides, tyre swings, and zip wires provide endless fun, along with a disco area, perspex floors, and a ball pit filled with bash bags! With reserved seating outdoors, parents can relax and socialise while their children have a fantastic time playing. Holiday Adventure Zone specialises in organising exhilarating outdoor activities designed to provide children and young people with opportunities for fun, exercise, and the chance to make new friends. Parents have the option to join in the excitement or entrust their children to the capable hands of the experienced staff. The team is highly qualified in all the activities on offer, and the company goes the extra mile by employing a full-time safety officer with extensive knowledge of outdoor adventure. Whether beginners or more experienced individuals, participants can enjoy a wide range of activities, including RYA Sailing Courses, British Canoe Union activities, Paddle Power kayak and canoe programs, Bushcraft and Survival training, Explore Rowing, Learn to Row Courses, Start Archery, Low Ropes, Windsurfing, Raft building, and much more. Cirencester Open Air Swimming Pool, established in 1870 and nestled in a charming location adjacent to Cirencester Park, offers a delightful experience for visitors. With a main pool as well as a small pool catering to young children. The pool is supplied with water from a natural spring and maintained at a comfortable average temperature of 26°C throughout the season. A diverse range of swimming activities awaits, including general swims suitable for families and children, drop-in swims, designated lanes, Aqua Aerobics inclusive swims, and dedicated sessions for adults accompanied by pre-school children.

Our Hotel serves as an ideal base for embarking on a captivating exploration of heritage and historic sites. After a day of immersing oneself in the rich legacy of the region, you can return and unwind and reflect upon the sights and stories encountered throughout your journey. Close to the hotel lies Cirencester Amphitheatre. Constructed in the early 2nd century during the height of Corinium (now Cirencester) as a thriving Roman city, the amphitheatre boasted a capacity for approximately 8,000 spectators. Managed by Cirencester Town Council, this historical site offers free entry and is open year-round during daylight hours. Free parking is available at the eastern end of Cotswold Avenue, while facilities such as shops, toilets, and food outlets can be found in the nearby Cirencester town centre. Dogs on leads are welcome, and for a more immersive experience, a town walk developed by Cirencester Town Council includes a visit to the amphitheatre. Additional information and artefacts can be explored at the Corinium Museum in the town center. Cirencester Parish Church, dedicated to St John Baptist, warmly welcomes visitors from 10am on weekdays. Sunday services are held at 10am, and 10.30am. Whether visiting to explore the town or to participate in worship, you can expect a friendly reception. Within the Parish of Cirencester with Watermoor, there are three Anglican churches to discover. St John Baptist stands as one of the largest parish churches in England, serving as a place of devotion for over a millennium. Open every day from 10am, the church receives thousands of visitors annually, alongside its regular worshipping community who find solace and prayer within its walls.The Parish Church of St John Baptist remains a vibrant sanctuary for people of all ages and backgrounds, valuing everyone who enters its doors. Guided tours of the church are available, and on special days, visitors can even ascend the tower to admire the views. The Cotswold Sculpture Park is a captivating destination for art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Nestled within the picturesque Cotswolds region, this unique park showcases a diverse collection of contemporary sculptures set against the backdrop of stunning natural landscapes. As you explore the park's extensive grounds spanning 10 acres, you'll encounter a myriad of thought-provoking sculptures crafted by talented artists from around the world. Each sculpture tells its own story, inviting visitors to engage with art in a serene outdoor setting. Whether you're strolling along the scenic pathways, taking a moment of reflection in one of the park's tranquil gardens, or simply admiring the creative expressions of the sculptures, the Cotswold Sculpture Park offers a harmonious blend of art, nature, and serenity. It's a truly immersive experience that showcases the beauty and creativity that the Cotswolds has to offer. Chedworth Roman Villa, one of the grandest Roman villas in Britain, invites visitors to explore its remarkable remains. Walk along suspended walkways to witness the awe-inspiring in-situ Roman mosaics, showcasing the villa's artistic splendour. Marvel at the well-preserved hypocaust systems and bath-houses, providing a glimpse into the villa's opulent past. Step inside the museum to delve deeper into the site's history, where a diverse range of excavated artefacts, including Roman jewellery, figurines, and coins, offer insights into the villa's religious practices and daily life. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding Cotswold countryside while soaking up the rich heritage of Chedworth Roman Villa. The Corinium Museum, situated in the heart of Cirencester, houses significant discoveries from the ancient Roman town of Corinium, now called Cirencester. However, the museum goes beyond this, guiding you on a captivating journey through time, tracing the evolution of the Cotswolds from its prehistoric origins to the present day. Immerse yourself in the contemporary and well-lit galleries that offer an extraordinary interactive experience. Encounter a multitude of exhibited artefacts, ranging from tools used in prehistoric times and Roman mosaics to Anglo-Saxon burial items and medieval sculptures. Each object carries a unique tale to share. If you have a passion for handmade creations then New Brewery Arts is worth a visit. Experience the very best crafts in welcoming and free gallery exhibitions featuring over 500 leading UK makers. They also offer an exciting program of over 200 courses and workshops, designed to inspire and ignite your creativity. These can be booked online via their website. Choose from pottery to stained glass, drawing to printing and sewing, offering a perfect hands-on experience for everyone. Lydiard Park, a beautiful historic estate in Swindon, offers a range of attractions for a memorable family day out. Explore the state rooms of Lydiard House Museum with its ornate plasterwork and family portraits. Visit St Mary's Church with its unique monuments. Enjoy the restored Walled Garden and the park's grand avenues. Dogs are welcome, and there are picnic spots, BBQ facilities, and various events throughout the year. Step into the past and experience life in a 19th-century House of Correction at The Old Prison, free of charge. The fully enclosed garden showcases the captivating Lloyd Baker wagon collection. Originally constructed in the 1790s, this model prison influenced London's Pentonville Prison. Enjoy the spacious grassed area of the outdoor exercise yard. Delve into the Lloyd-Baker Rural Life Collection, featuring an original 1770 cider press and fascinating historical agricultural machinery. Don't miss the chance to step inside the original courtroom and cells, where petty sessional court events took place and inmates were held before trial. Situated in a warehouse nestled in the vibrant Victorian docks of Gloucester, the Gloucester Waterways Museum unravels the captivating tale of our enchanting canals and rivers. Embark on a journey aboard historic boats, engage in interactive activities, immerse yourself in archive films, and explore galleries brimming with canal heritage and fascinating stories. With an abundance of attractions for all ages, the museum offers a delightful experience for the whole family.

At Stratton House Hotel, we understand the allure of nature and the outdoors. Our Cotswold location provides a gateway to a world of adventure and natural beauty. From peaceful woodland trails to awe-inspiring peaks, and from serene lakes to cycling routes, there is something for every nature lover to enjoy. So, pack your bags, book your stay at Stratton House Hotel, and prepare to create memories that will last a lifetime amidst the breathtaking natural wonders that surround us. The Cotswold Water Park offers a unique blend of aquatic fun and the charm of the Cotswold countryside. Nestled amidst the picturesque Cotswold landscape, this water park combines the tranquility of the region with an array of exciting water attractions. As you enter the park, you'll be captivated by the beauty of the surrounding natural scenery, with lush greenery and rolling hills providing a stunning backdrop. Nestled amidst the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds, Cirencester Golf Club invites you to experience golfing at its finest, combined with the undeniable charm of this enchanting region. The club's idyllic setting provides a backdrop that is truly unmatched, offering golf enthusiasts an opportunity to indulge in their passion while immersing themselves in the timeless elegance and rustic allure that defines the Cotswolds. Cerney Gardens transports visitors to a world of timeless beauty and quintessential English charm. As you step through the gate, you are greeted by manicured lawns, vibrant flowerbeds, and a sense of tranquility that is synonymous with the Cotswolds. Stroll along the winding pathways, framed by stone walls and ancient trees, and discover hidden nooks and crannies that beckon you to pause and soak in the beauty that surrounds you. Whether you are a gardening enthusiast or simply seeking a serene escape, Cerney Gardens offers a truly authentic Cotswold experience. The National Arboretum, at Westonbirt encompasses 240 hectares of land and was established during an era of plant hunting, introducing trees and shrubs from around the world to Britain. The arboretum stands out with its aesthetic landscape design, making it one of the most stunning tree gardens worldwide. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the Welcome Building, which provides valuable information about the arboretum's trees and their care, along with seasonal trail leaflets highlighting remarkable tree specimens. One of the highlights is the STIHL Treetop Walkway, a 300-meter-long pathway that gradually ascends to a height of 13 meters, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Families can enjoy the play trail, a captivating adventure for children set in the arboretum's magnificent setting. Westonbirt Arboretum provides an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. Step back in time at Sudeley Castle, where the echoes of history's illustrious figures can still be felt. Embrace the vibrant spirit of the Cotswolds as you immerse yourself in our lively calendar of captivating events, each one brimming with excitement and charm. Uncover the myriad treasures that lie within the castle's walls through our enthralling exhibition, where history comes alive before your very eyes. Nestled amidst the enchanting Cotswolds countryside, Sudeley Castle promises an unforgettable journey through time. Tucked away behind the bustling Market Place and the Parish Church, lies the serene Cirencester Abbey Grounds. This hidden gem holds within its embrace the remnants of St Mary's Abbey, a sacred place consecrated in the presence of Henry II. The grounds also house a section of an ancient Roman Wall, adding to its historical significance. Families with children will appreciate the enclosed play area, featuring a spacious sandpit and an adventurous 'spiders web' rope climbing frame and a looped path encircling the grounds provides an ideal route for scooters and bikes, offering picturesque views of the lake and river, where ducks can be fed and graceful swans observed. Take a leap into in the world of thrilling equestrian sport and refined luxury at the Cirencester Park Polo Club. Located close to our hotel, this prestigious club offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Witness skilled players and powerful horses showcase their prowess on the field from the sidelines or indulge in the VIP hospitality offerings for an enhanced experience. Cirencester Park Polo Club is an extraordinary day filled with excitement, elegance, and the timeless thrill of polo. The Bathurst Estate and Cirencester Park offer a diverse range of activities, ensuring that both locals and visitors can revel in the splendor of this historic venue. Ideal for a dog friendly Cotswold walk set against the backdrop of one of the greatest privately-owned parks of the 18th century and the finest forest landscape in England. The estate provides various refreshment spots scattered throughout the grounds. As you explore the estate and its surroundings, you'll discover a myriad of experiences waiting to be savored, creating memories that will endure in this enchanting setting. The Thames Path, Get your walking boots on for a thrilling Cotswold hike on the exhilarating 20km point-to-point trail near Cirencester Abbey. From stunning vistas to hidden gems along the way, every step brings a new thrill. With fewer crowds to encounter, you'll have the trail almost all to yourself, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the surroundings. Whether you embark on this journey in the warm embrace of summer or the crisp air of winter, the trail promises a fantastic time filled with fun and adventure. So, gather your adventurous spirit, gather your friends, and set out on an unforgettable escapade that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. The Cotswold Range is a haven for outdoor adventurers. This premier shooting facility offers a wide range of thrilling activities and experiences, catering to both beginners and seasoned shooters. Whether you're looking to test your aim with an air rifle or try your hand at archery, The Cotswold Range provides top-notch facilities and expert guidance to ensure a memorable and safe experience. With its stunning natural surroundings and professional staff, this destination captures the essence of the Cotswolds while offering an exciting and adrenaline-pumping adventure for all.

The Cotswolds offer excitement for any visitor. This beautiful area is known for its charming honey-coloured stone picturesque villages and idyllic country views. You will find some of the most beautiful Cotswold villages, such as Bibury, The Slaughters and Bourton-on-the-Water, well within exploring distance of the hotel. There are plenty of things to see and do here, so it's well worth dedicating a few days to get a feel for the area and then relax after taking in all the beauty. Just down the road from Stratton House Hotel is one of the Country's most beautiful privately owned parks. Cirencester Park has served as a deer park, a military base, and a Glenn Miller performance venue over the years. A springtime walk amongst the ancient trees when the park is slowly coming to life provides a quiet moment to appreciate the simple things in life. Just 10 minutes from Stratton House, Cerney House Gardens is a lovely, hidden gem in the Cotswolds, described by Country Living as "what most people aspire to in their gardens – and few achieve". Sudeley Castle, near Winchcombe, is rich in history and has a long history of royal links. Queen Katherine Parr, King Henry VIII's final and surviving wife, lived at the castle. How long to spend in the Cotswolds? You'll need a few days to explore all that the Cotswolds has to offer. However, the Cotswolds is a place you can revisit time and time, so if you can only spend a couple of days there, then that's perfect too. Best time to visit the Cotswolds? The Cotswolds is a year-round destination, bringing a different experience each season. Spring A trip to the Cotswolds in spring is a beautiful experience. Discover the beauty of the surrounding landscape and enjoy this gorgeous part of the UK in bloom. Although spring is a popular time to visit the Cotswolds, it's less busy than the summer months. Which means you can still soak up the peace of the countryside. Summer Due to the warmer weather and lower chance of rain, summer is a popular time to visit the Cotswolds. Enjoy gorgeous summer days in the countryside, dine alfresco, and go for long walks in the sun. Autumn With gorgeous turning leaves on the trees and across the streets, it makes for beautiful photo opportunities. Autumn is another very pretty time of year to visit the Cotswolds. Winter In the Cotswolds, winter is the quietest season. We certainly have a cold winter in the UK right now. But it's also the perfect time to cosy up by our roaring log fire. Whatever time of year you come and stay, the Cotswolds will always delight and surprise you. Where to stay in the Cotswolds? We can only recommend one place, and that here at Stratton Hosue Hotel and Spa Stratton House perfectly reflects the region's natural beauty and rustic charm. We like to think it's one of the loveliest country house hotels in the area. You can make yourself at home in one of our 43 stylish bedrooms, book into the spa and let the team look after you with our unique 'Stratton touch'. We offer a charming base in the Cotswold countryside, with a chance to explore the area. Stratton House Hotel & Spa is your ideal destination and luxury setting.

If you're looking to book your Cotswold wedding at Stratton House Hotel, let us showcase the many unique photography spots we can provide, you're almost spoilt for choice for your wedding photography here at Stratton House Hotel. The beauty of getting married in Stratton House Hotel is you don't have to go far for photographs. You can stay onsite for all of your wedding photographs. Here are some stunning spots for your wedding photographs at Stratton House Hotel. The walled garden is lovely in the spring, summer and autumn. The flower beds are full of daffodils in the spring, beautiful blooms in the summer and gorgeous colours later in the year with the turning autumn leaves. Our courtyard with natural Cotswold stone provides a picture-perfect backdrop on your special day, and the bridal suite here at Stratton House Hotel provides a relaxing space for bridal party fun, preparations and great photos. The pergola in the walled garden is something so simple yet so effective. Couple photos, family photos, and wedding party photos. You can make full use of this structure it’s another part that adds such variety to our wedding venue during the day, and after the sun has gone down, the lights give such an incredible atmosphere. Capture the memories of your special day on the original spiral staircase inside our beautiful hotel. In a short space of time, you can run through many locations without travelling too far. Top tip, really make use of our grounds. It’s a great place for garden games, for children, and adults too! Make full use of our incredible Cotswold wedding venue, there is so much choice. Please do not hesitate to contact me, or the hotel if you have any questions or would like to make an appointment to view the hotel. Orla Brandenburg www.strattonhousehotel.com/weddings

Wahoo! It’s official, you’re engaged! But once you have popped the fizz, got your pics on social media /the ‘gram and the world knows about your engagement, now it’s time to actually plan your wedding. You might be wondering where to start with wedding planning, there are so many things to consider for the big day, so expert team has put together a check list for your big day. 1. Set Your Budget The first item on your ‘how to plan a wedding checklist’ is your budget. You need to decide realistically how much you can afford to spend on your big day. If you don’t set a budget when planning your wedding, it could lead to a lot of stress later on. Plus, when it comes to adding on the cost of mini-moon or full blown honeymoon, you could consider setting up a honeymoon ‘gift list’ to help pay for it. Costs can be anywhere up to £20,000, but we think you can have the perfect package, tailored to your needs for a lot less! But no matter what you have to spend, you can still have an absolutely lovely wedding day. We currently offer three price points, which include venue hire, room hire, menu and bridal rooms the night of the wedding: Classic Package: £3750 Stratton Package: £4750 Cotswold Package: £5500 2. Find the Ideal Wedding Venue We are slightly biased of course, but we think that the Cotswolds is the perfect location for a wedding- at any time of year. As well as the stunning location, at the Stratton House Hotel and Spa, we offer the quintessential Cotswold wedding experience. We have a venue that offers character and elegance, mixing rustic charm and modern luxury, the staff who can cater for all your needs and create a relaxed atmosphere to help you to stay present and enjoy your day. If this sounds like what you are after, read our guide to planning a Cotswolds wedding 3. Pick Your Bridal Party This may be easier than deciding on the wider guest list. Your bridal party, best man or ushers may have been decided a long time ago. Traditionally we see a mix of maids of honour, bridesmaids, a best man and ushers. Depending on the size of the party or your family make up you might also want flower girls and page boys and don’t forget to ask someone responsible to be your witnesses or to give a reading at your ceremony. 4. Plan Your Guest List Once you have selected your bridal party, your budget and your choice of wedding venue will probably dictate numbers on your guest list. At Stratton House, we can host intimate weddings for up to 50 people or cater for larger ones with up to 150 guests. When you’re working out how to plan your wedding, it’s important to sit down with your partner and decide who you want to invite. Try and split the allocation of guests as fairly as you can, and also decide whether you want to have evening guests too. Remember to include yourselves in your numbers and have a serious chat about whether you want children at your wedding too. 5. Sort Your Wedding Suppliers You have a venue, a date and an idea of who is coming but it’s worth giving yourself plenty of time to find the right wedding suppliers for your wedding. Once you’ve got your guest list numbers sorted, you can think about your wedding stationery and start working on your wedding breakfast table plan. You will also want flowers, a car maybe some table treats and some entertainment for your guests. You can browse our list on our website 6. Get Wedding Insurance Your wedding is one of the most expensive things you’ll ever pay for, so it makes sense to insure it. Buying wedding insurance will give you peace of mind – in case anything goes wrong. It may seem like an unnecessary expense as the costs add up, but compared to what it is protecting, it’s a relatively small price to pay. 7. Say YES to the Dress Shopping for THE dress is an exciting part of planning your wedding. Make sure you do your research to find out what style of wedding dress you like, and then start booking appointments at bridal boutiques. If you can, give yourself up to a year to find your dream wedding dress – some take around six months to arrive once ordered, so allow yourself plenty of time. But if you don’t have that long, or don’t have the big budget there are a number of second-hand options that could be altered slightly to fit. The dress may be pre-loved but it will still be new to you! Obviously the groom also needs something to wear and you may decide to buy or hire outfits for the best man, bridesmaids and ushers. 8. Create a Wedding Gift List Planning your wedding gift list is a really exciting part of your wedding planning. You need to decide on your wedding gift list before you send out your invitations, so you can include the information in your invites. You might find it weird at first, as couples tend to be older, there are fewer setting up home for the first time so they don’t need a new crockery set from M&S, but it means your guests know exactly what to buy you and it can be a great time to refresh your furniture or contribute to a once-in-a-lifetime holiday! 9. Send Out the Save the date and your Invitations People are busy. It might be your special day but they have lots going on too! You need to make sure your guests get the date in their calendar early so send out a save the date notice in plenty of time. You can then send out your wedding invitations with all the details they need for your big day. At Stratton House Hotel and Spa, we have 43 well-appointed rooms, including the Bridal suite which is included in all of our wedding packages and parking on site. It’s a good idea for those travelling to the wedding to have some ideas about accommodation and where to park! 10. Plan Your Honeymoon The only thing that might be more exciting than your wedding day is your honeymoon. If you have the budget, it’s the perfect excuse to book your dream trip. But if you are counting on guest contributions, it might make sense to wait until after your wedding to book the trip. We can offer extended stays at the Stratton House Hotel for those that want to extend their celebrations by a day or two! 11. Stag and Hen Nights Finally, when all the serious planning is done, it’s time to kick back and plan your hen or stag do! The hen and stag dos are typically planned by the bridesmaids and the best man, but some people choose to plan their own. If you wanted something elegant and relaxing in the lead up to a hectic few days, we offer a range of spa days and treatments that will let you de-stress in the build-up.

So many newly engaged couples are attracted by the thought of getting married in the Cotswolds. As an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the Cotswolds is a glorious location for a wedding. With its mix of quintessential English villages and rural market towns, brides, grooms and guests alike can admire the rolling hills while the honey-coloured Cotswold stone venues offer the perfect backdrop to a dream day. Our team are on hand to help you plan the perfect day but here are a few things to think about in advance. Select your perfect venue As well as the stunning location, the Cotswold wedding experience is all about the venue, its staff and a relaxed atmosphere during the day. The venue should have character and elegance to offer both rustic charm and modern luxury. Ideally it will be fully accessible and provide an outdoor space that can add another dimension – and create great photos – for your day. If you aren’t looking for a church wedding, the venue is often licensed for civil ceremonies, which minimises travel on the day. New for 2022, Stratton House Hotel is also able to offer outdoor ceremonies and receptions. You can say your vows in the stunning walled garden, which is a truly peaceful and relaxing place amongst the trees and flower beds and then enjoy your wedding breakfast in the pergola. Budget Money conversations are always hard. But without knowing what you have to spend, you can’t even begin to start planning. Couples should talk to one another about how much they can afford, what their must haves, nice to haves and probably won’t haves are and come up with a realistic figure. But don’t be put off by the Cotswold price tag, you can enjoy all of the trappings of a Cotswold venue without breaking the bank. We currently offer packages at three price points, which include venue hire, room hire, menu and bridal rooms the night of the wedding: Classic Package: £3750 Stratton Package: £4750 Cotswold Package: £5500 Choose your catering With so much wonderful produce on the doorstep, whatever menu you choose, the food should be locally sourced, freshly cooked and delicious—think slow-roasted meats with seasonal vegetables, pan-seared fish or handmade desserts like warm chocolate tarts served with fresh cream. The first thing to decide is the type of menu you want for your wedding. Will your wedding breakfast or reception be a formal sit-down meal, a buffet or will you choose a lighter-bite menu. Rather than a choice of external caterers, each with a different feel—and different costs, Stratton House Hotel has an in-house brigade that can listen to your preferences, match your style and work within your budget. And don’t forget the service: a meal can be spoilt by poor service. Our full time friendly, yet professional team are used to going above and beyond to ensure your personalised requests are met in full. Choose your theme Whether it is Bridgeton grandeur, rustic charm, or vintage chic there are so many popular themes to choose from. Sequel weddings are also big this summer with so many who tied the knot in isolation now choosing to do it all again, in style with family and friends. Following a change in the law recently, we also expect to see more outdoor weddings at Stratton House Hotel. Having been cooped up for two years, what better way to experience the natural beauty of the Cotswolds? Of course, even the fantastic Imogen can’t plan the great British weather, even in the summer – so we also recommend putting your Plan B, wet weather alternative, in place. Unless of course you think there is nothing more romantic than having your first dance in the rain. Whatever your theme, the Cotswolds is the perfect backdrop to inspire your creativity. Choose your suppliers Ok, you have the location, the venue, the food all in line with your chosen theme, but weddings also require a few more individual touches; the dress, the flowers, the car, the stationery the photographer. We can recommend a preferred list of suppliers that we can put you in touch with. If you choose this route, you know you are working to your budget and as we have worked with them all before, these suppliers come with an extra layer of endorsement. Optional extras Your wedding day should be perfect but it can be over in a flash. Why not extend the celebrations with an intimate experience or shared meal before the big day. Pre wedding spas for the bridal party, bridesmaids or mothers and mother-in-laws to be can be popular. Relax and unwind with a choice of treatments from our Spa in the Garden . We can offer special discounted rates and treatments for bridal parties. We are also an excellent venue for a laid back hen party that requires luxury and pampering. Cotswold Weddings at Stratton House Hotel and Spa. If you are looking for a stunning setting, with a friendly atmosphere, mouth-watering locally sourced food and exceptional service look no further than our unique venue on the outskirts of Cirencester. As soon as you arrive you will feel like you're in your own home away from home. Stratton House Hotel and Spa is an elegant Country House hotel nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds. Our neutral décor makes us an ideal blank canvas for any theme you choose. We can host intimate weddings for up to 50 people or larger ones for up to 150 guests. Our in house kitchen team will prepare your meal with the utmost care and attention to detail. Using fresh ingredients from our own gardens and local suppliers we can tailor your menu to suit your needs. We also have a dedicated wedding coordinator, on site who will help make sure your dream day unfolds seamlessly from start to finish. To start planning your perfect Cotswolds wedding, follow the links below.