A beautiful new wedding venue has opened in historic Durham City - and the prices will surprise you!

At the heart of The Story, on Durham's Mount Oswald, lies the new registry office - but the ceremony suites dispel preconceived notions of white municipal walls and styrofoam ceiling tiles. 

 Situated in the Grade 2 listed Mount Oswald Manor, the ceremony suite consists of three rooms - the Durham room, the Manor room, and the Oswald room, each kitted out for different-sized ceremonies. 

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

The manor's original staircase is also licenced - so ceremonies for small groups can occur on the beautiful sweeping staircase itself. 

Anne Robson, the superintendent registrar, has spent nearly 40 years registering marriages in County Durham and is a self-confessed romantic.

From the reclaimed cast iron fireplaces to the bow-backed guest chairs, Anne and her team have put every effort into making the ceremonial suite perfect. 

(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

They can also opt for a stripped-back ceremony, with just two witnesses. 

Many couples in County Durham will have tied the knot on the Mount Oswald estate whilst it was a golf club - and Anne has encouraged anyone who might want to renew their vows to get in touch. 

Weddings can be booked by getting in touch with the Durham County Council registration services. 

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(Image: Sarah Caldecott)

Here are the prices and guest numbers: 

  • Couple and 2 witnesses only = £68.50, Tuesday and Wednesday (mornings only).
  • Manor Room (Room holds 10 guests) = £170, Monday to Wednesday (mornings only).
  • Durham Room (Maximum number of guests to be confirmed) = £310 Monday to Thursday, £350 Friday, £380 Saturday, £435 Sunday and bank holidays. 
  • Oswald Room (Maximum number of guests to be confirmed) = £310 Monday to Thursday,£350 Friday, £380 Saturday, £435 Sunday and bank holidays.