The History Of Stanbrook Abbey Hotel
Set in the heart of the countryside, Stanbrook Abbey Hotel in Callow End, Worcester, has been a haven for centuries since the Benedictine nuns first founded the Abbey. The Sisters of the Holy Cross have brought new life to the stunning buildings and grounds by transforming this historic site into a luxury hotel.
The luxury and wedding venue Stanbrook Abbey Hotel is the perfect setting for your ceremony and has a great backdrop for photos. Join us as we delve into the history and features of this fantastic venue.
Learn about Stanbrook Abbey Hotel's history, from its founding by the Benedictine nuns to its transformation into a luxury hotel, now offering the finest British produce and award-winning wines.
See the architecture and grounds of Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, which reflect its history and the Sisters of the Holy Cross. The hotel retains its elegant period features and monastic life charm while offering modern amenities.
Make your dream wedding come true at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, which features a chapel for ceremonies, great backdrops for photos, and reception venues fit for a princess. The Old Thompson Dining Hall and the Thompson Dining Hall provide a brasserie-style dining experience, serving dishes made from heritage vegetables and Welsh lamb.
Stanbrook Abbey
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, set in the Worcestershire countryside, was originally a monastery founded by Benedictine nuns, with its history dating back to the Victorian Gothic Revival and influential figures such as Augustus Welby Pugin. This grade II listed red brick building on Tree Lane, Upton Road, retains much of its original charm, offering a perfect retreat for a romantic break.
The Abbey's Beginnings
Stanbrook Abbey was founded by Benedictine nuns in Worcestershire, who also founded the famous Stanbrook Abbey Press. Situated in the peaceful countryside of Callow End, WR2 4TY, the Abbey was the ideal location for the nuns' secluded monastic life.
In the mid-19th century, the Benedictine nuns were looking for a secluded spot to establish their monastery, and Worcestershire's peaceful countryside was the perfect place. Over the years, the Abbey became famous for its prayer, community life, and artistic pursuits.
The Stanbrook Abbey Press was established in the late 19th century and was responsible for preserving historical documents and literature. Their beautiful books were renowned for their quality and craftsmanship and attracted scholars, collectors, and readers.
The Benedictine Nuns
The Benedictine nuns were at the heart of Stanbrook Abbey's history, dedicating their lives to prayer and education and preserving the site's heritage. The nuns meticulously designed and maintained the Abbey's buildings, including the original schoolhouse and the nun's cafeteria, ensuring the site's beauty and significance for future generations.
Throughout the centuries, these dedicated nuns have lived a life of contemplation and prayer and actively engaged with the local community, offering spiritual guidance and support. Their monastery, set in the peaceful countryside, has become a haven of spiritual peace and tranquillity for those seeking escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
The Benedictine nuns have ensured the Abbey's historical and cultural heritage is preserved by carefully maintaining its buildings and sacred objects so that future generations can continue to appreciate its beauty and significance.
Modern Day Stanbrook Abbey Hotel
Today, Stanbrook Abbey Hotel combines historical charm with contemporary design. Visitors can enjoy traditional afternoon tea in the original nun's refectory or a meal in the Refectory Restaurant, which offers a unique taste of the finest British produce. Comfortable table seating is available, making it a welcoming place for all, including families with children.
For those looking to stay overnight, the hotel offers a great night's sleep in rooms that blend period features with modern comforts. The feature rooms on the ground and second floors showcase the building's heritage while providing contemporary amenities.
Guests can also enjoy a variety of activities, including table football for a bit of fun. Children’s menus ensure the younger guests are well-catered for, making it an ideal destination for families.
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel is one of Worcestershire's best-kept secrets, offering a perfect retreat in a grade II listed monastery with a rich history and beautiful surroundings. Whether you're planning a romantic break, a wedding, or a family getaway, this meticulously designed hotel promises an unforgettable experience.
The Stanbrook Abbey Hotel
The conversion of Stanbrook Abbey into the luxury Stanbrook Abbey Hotel was a significant project overseen by the Sisters of the Holy Cross and later by Handpicked Hotels to preserve the history whilst providing modern comforts in the Worcestershire countryside.
The Sisters of the Holy Cross Purchase
The Sisters of the Holy Cross bought Stanbrook Abbey to transform to transform it while preserving its history and spirituality.
With a deep respect for the history and sacred purpose embedded in the walls of the Abbey, the Sisters wanted to breathe new life into the space and create a modern-day sanctuary that would honour the past and serve the community of today.
When they bought the property, they first assessed the structural integrity of the buildings, catalogued the artefacts and planned the refurbishment with a mix of modern design and traditional architectural features to ensure continuity with the Abbey's heritage.
The Restoration and Refurbishment
The restoration and refurbishment of Stanbrook Abbey Hotel by Handpicked Hotels was a meticulous process of blending modern luxury with the property's historic architecture.
While keeping the original 16th-century building intact, upgrades were made to enhance the guest experience. State-of-the-art technology was seamlessly integrated into the design so guests could have all the modern amenities in a historical setting. The interior was reworked with contemporary furniture and traditional elements to create a timeless and welcoming space.
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel Features
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel has many beautiful features, including the rooms built the historic Pugin suite, St Anne's Wing, Bell Tower, and Callow Great Hall. It also offers luxurious dining at The Refectory and George's Bar, all set in the Worcestershire countryside.
The Architecture
The architecture of Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, Pugin suite, St Anne's Wing, Bell Tower, and Callow Great Hall showcases Augustus Welby Pugin's Victorian Gothic Revival style.
Pugin's influence is everywhere in the Pugin suite with its intricate woodwork, stained glass windows and decorative motifs that reflect his love of medieval. St Anne's Wing, with its soaring arches and pointed spires, transports you back to the grandeur of the Victorian era. The Bell Tower is a dramatic focal point echoing Pugin's love of verticality and Gothic. The Callow Great Hall is opulent with its ceiling frescoes, mouldings and fireplace crafted in Pugin's style. Every area of Stanbrook Abbey Hotel tells a story of architectural and historical importance and invites you to step into the world of Victorian Gothic Revival as seen through the eyes of the visionary Augustus Welby Pugin.
The Grounds
In the Worcestershire countryside, Stanbrook Abbey Hotel grounds extensive gardens, including Willow Lake and the Malvern Hills, are a beautiful and peaceful retreat for guests.
The gardens at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel add to the charm of this lovely setting. Meandering paths lined with colourful flowers lead guests on peaceful walks around the property. Guests can sit among the scented blooms for afternoon tea or find a shaded spot to sit and think.
Willow Lake mirrors the sky and is a tranquil oasis. It's the perfect spot for a leisurely picnic or sitting and listening to nature.
The Luxury Rooms
The luxury rooms at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel are elegantly furnished, have private dining areas, and have a wine cellar, all designed to make your stay in Worcestershire as comfortable and luxurious as possible.
Guests can dine in private areas, perfect for intimate occasions or celebrations. The wine cellar is stocked with an extensive selection of fine wines to enjoy with your meal or to relax in the evening. Every room is beautifully decorated to make you feel luxurious and pampered. The combination of modern and historic is the epitome of luxury.
The Meaning of the Name
Stanbrook Abbey has deep historical roots as a Benedictine monastery and centuries of religious and cultural preservation.
What is Stanbrook Abbey
Stanbrook Abbey is a centre of religious and cultural heritage in Worcestershire. It was initially a Benedictine nun's monastery.
The Abbey was founded in 1625 and has been at the heart of spiritual life in the area for centuries. The Benedictine nuns preserved ancient manuscripts and art and added to the area's cultural richness. Their prayer and scholarship have left a lasting legacy to the community and inspired generations of believers to live a life of contemplation and service. Stanbrook Abbey's architecture and peaceful surroundings attract visitors seeking solace and quiet reflection.
The Sisters of the Holy Cross
The Sisters of the Holy Cross were instrumental in the restoration and preservation of Stanbrook Abbey so its legacy would endure through the ages.
Through their hard work and expertise, the Sisters preserved the Abbey's architecture and added modern elements to make it accessible to visitors and serve the community. Their attention to detail in restoring the Abbey's original features and making it functional shows a perfect blend of past and present. This has enabled Stanbrook Abbey to remain a symbol of history and spirituality and a haven for those seeking solace and connection in a peaceful environment.
Wedding Venue
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel is a perfect wedding venue in Worcestershire. Its beautiful chapel, stunning photo backdrops, and elegant reception rooms will make your day unforgettable.
The Chapel with Gothic stained glass windows
The chapel at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel is a beautiful and sacred space for your wedding ceremony, creating an atmosphere of luxury and reverence for your special day.
With high ceilings and stained glass windows that filter natural light, the chapel is peaceful and intimate, perfect for exchanging vows and celebrating love. The wooden pews are comfortable for your guests, and the soft candlelight adds a romantic touch.
The chapel's design combines modern elements with historic charm, so it's a versatile backdrop for any wedding theme or style. Whether you want a traditional or contemporary ceremony, the chapel's timeless appeal suits every couple's vision.
Backdrops for Photos
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, with its beautiful gardens and historic architecture, is a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos. It is located in the heart of Worcestershire.
From the gardens to the ivy-clad walls of the Abbey, every area of the estate is a photo opportunity.
The peaceful lake-side gazebo surrounded by flowers and the grand staircase to the ballroom are just a few romantic spots that pleasure wedding photography at Stanbrook Abbey.
Reception Rooms and dramatic stone cloisters
The reception rooms at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel, the Callow Great Hall, and the private dining areas further seven rooms are elegant spaces to celebrate with family and friends.
For a special event or big occasion, the Callow Great Hall, with its high ceilings and impressive architecture, is a magnificent backdrop for a grand event.
For a more intimate occasion, the private dining areas are perfect for smaller gatherings or rehearsal dinners.
Each venue at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel combines historic charm with modern luxury, so whatever the occasion, your wedding will be unforgettable.
FAQs
1. What is the history of Stanbrook Abbey Hotel?
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel has existed since the 16th century, when it was first a Benedictine monastery, then a country house, and now a luxury hotel.
2. When did Stanbrook Abbey Hotel open as a hotel?
Stanbrook Abbey Hotel opened in 2009 after a major restoration that retained its historic charm and added modern facilities.
3. Who lived in Stanbrook Abbey originally?
Stanbrook Abbey was home to a community of Benedictine nuns who lived and worked on the estate for centuries. The monastery was a place of spiritual retreat, prayer, and manual work.
4. What has happened at Stanbrook Abbey Hotel?
Over the years, Stanbrook Abbey Hotel has hosted many historical events, including Queen Elizabeth II for lunch in 1966 and the Dalai Lama during his visit to the UK in 2012.
5. How has Stanbrook Abbey Hotel retained its history?
Despite being a hotel, Stanbrook Abbey has retained its history by carefully restoring its original architecture and features. The hotel also offers guests guided tours and historical exhibits to learn more about the site.
6. Is Stanbrook Abbey Hotel a wedding venue?
Yes, we are a wedding venue with beautiful grounds and elegant rooms where you can get married. We have an events team to help plan and deliver your special day.