Hatfield House

Hatfield House is a Jacobean mansion at the heart of Hatfield Park, an estate of more than 250 acres in Hertfordshire. Its wedding spaces include the Old Palace, the Riding School and the Motor House, plus the park itself for outdoor moments.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

GLW recommends Hatfield for couples who want scale and history without a stiff atmosphere. A wedding here includes exclusive access to the Old Palace, the Knot Garden and the Raised Lawn, so your guests have the space to themselves. The venue welcomes a range of ceremony styles, including blessings, which suits couples who want to build the day around their own traditions.

Ceremonies

The Old Palace and the Riding School are both licensed for civil ceremonies. The Old Palace is the grand historic option. The Riding School is lighter, with historic features set against contemporary architecture, and suits a more modern wedding. Outdoor ceremonies are possible in the park, weather permitting. The Motor House is a small space for up to 30 guests.

Receptions and food

The Old Palace seats up to 280 guests. The Riding School seats up to 100, and more when guests stand. An approved catering partner offers a buffet, two or three course menus, bowl food and a children menu, with vegan and halal choices. You can also bring your own caterer. Crockery, cutlery and linen come with in-house catering, while dry hire needs you to arrange them.

Staying

There are no bedrooms on the estate. The team works with nearby partner hotels, including one at Elstree, and can help with rooms and special rates. Partner hotels are within about twenty minutes of the venue.

Getting there and the area

Hatfield Park sits beside the town of Hatfield, on the A1(M) corridor and close to the railway line from London. The estate office address is Melon Ground, Hatfield Park, AL9 5NB. Parking is free for wedding guests. Disabled parking is in the main Visitor Car Park, reached via George Gate, and coach parking is near the Old Palace and Stable Yard.

Good to know

• Weddings include exclusive access to the Old Palace, Knot Garden and Raised Lawn.
• You may use the approved caterer or bring your own.
• There is no on-site accommodation.