Downham Hall in Downham, near Billericay in Essex, is a family-run Georgian manor house that hosts weddings on exclusive use, with wedding breakfasts for up to 110 guests and evening receptions for up to 180. It also takes private dining, celebrations and corporate gatherings such as conferences, meetings and team building, and it has boutique bedrooms in the house.
Seminars and company events
The hall lists conferences, meetings and team building among its corporate offers. The official pages do not publish room capacities or layouts for business use, so describe your group size and format to the team when you enquire. The North Wing Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner and Sunday lunch, which can support a working day or a client lunch. Private dining is also available.
Weddings and receptions
Weddings are on exclusive use, and each couple works with a dedicated wedding coordinator. Ceremonies can be held in the Orangery, which has large windows, in the indoor De Beauvoir Suite or in an outdoor ceremony area. A light-filled bridal dressing room overlooks the gardens and opens to the bridal party from 8 a.m. A wedding marquee seats up to 110 guests for the wedding breakfast, and evening receptions take up to 180. Three wedding formats are offered: Full Day, Intimate and Twilight. The hall also mentions a new barn, but the pages differ on whether it is open or still in development for 2027 and later.
Rooms and capacities
The main ceremony and reception spaces are the Orangery, the De Beauvoir Suite, the outdoor ceremony area and the marquee. The hall has an ornate curved staircase and a moat that is roped off for safety. It is wheelchair accessible, with disabled toilets in the main hall.
Accommodation
The wedding pages list four individually styled double bedrooms and a Bridal Suite. The frequently asked questions mention five boutique bedrooms. Check-in is from 3 p.m. and check-out is at 10 a.m.
Catering
Menus are seasonal, use local ingredients and are prepared fresh on the day. A three-course wedding breakfast follows canapés at the drinks reception, and evening options include a buffet, stone-baked pizza, an informal barbecue or fish and chip cones. The kitchen holds two AA Rosettes. Dietary needs must be given in advance. Last orders are at 11:45 p.m. and guests leave by midnight.
History and setting
The house is a Georgian manor with countryside views over its grounds. St Margaret's Church is a short walk away, which suits couples planning a church ceremony.
Getting there
The address is Castledon Road, Downham, Billericay, Essex CM11 1LG. The hall publishes road directions from Basildon, Billericay, Brentwood, Chelmsford and nearby towns. Guests may leave cars overnight at their own risk.
