Preston Tower, near Chathill in Northumberland, is a medieval pele tower on a 600-acre family estate that is hired for weddings, private celebrations and corporate events. All private events are held exclusively: the historic grounds are closed to the public for the day. Receptions take place in a marquee in the landscaped gardens, and two self-catering cottages sit on the estate. The official pages give no guest numbers, so ask for the wedding brochure and the site visit before you plan the size of your event.
Seminars and company events
The estate lists corporate events such as product launches, conferences, corporate dinners and award ceremonies. The team offers catering, decor and technical support and works with the client on a bespoke program. A site visit can be booked. The setting is a medieval tower with gardens in rural Northumberland, which suits a dinner or a networking day away from an office. The estate presents itself as eco-conscious, and hire contributes to its conservation and wildlife work.
Weddings and receptions
Preston Tower is promoted as a garden wedding venue. Couples can exchange vows near the tower or in the grounds, and the landscaped gardens are the location for a marquee reception. The wedding team stays on hand during the day. The estate recommends tried and trusted caterers and suppliers but says couples are not confined to them. A brochure can be downloaded and a private viewing booked.
Private events cover birthdays, engagement parties, wakes, baby showers and garden parties, with bespoke catering and personal decor.
Rooms and capacities
The hire covers the tower and the gardens, and the site does not publish capacities for either. The tower dates from the late 14th century. It has a guard room and prison on the ground floor, a bedroom and living area on the first floor and the Flodden room on the second floor. Marquee size depends on what you choose to hire, so the number of guests is a question for the team.
Accommodation
Two self-catering cottages stand on the estate. West Lodge has two bedrooms and sleeps four. The Granary has one bedroom and sleeps two. Many bed and breakfasts and holiday lets are nearby for the rest of the party.
Catering
Catering is bespoke. You can use the estate's recommended suppliers or bring your own.
History and setting
Preston Pele Tower was built between 1392 and 1399 in a time of conflict between England and Scotland. The Baker Cresswell family has owned the estate since 1862 and farms the land, with ancient woodland managed for wildlife.
Getting there
The address is Preston Tower, Chathill, Northumberland NE67 5DH. Contact the team on 07966 150 216 or at info@prestontower.co.uk.
