4 reasons to celebrate your Wedding Day at the renowned 4-star, Hodson Bay Hotel
We caught up with Tim Hayes, Managing Director at The Hodson Bay Hotel to hear a few (from a long list of) reasons why so many newly engaged couples select this highly sought-after venue for their wedding celebrations.
Stunning natural views and picturesque setting
The award winning, 4-star Hodson Bay Hotel is located just 5 minutes from Athlone town, nestled on the shores of the majestic Lough Ree. A breath-taking, naturally beautiful backdrop for your wedding day. Without a doubt, the hotel’s exterior produces the most jaw-dropping wedding photographs. Along with this, the pristine garden leads the way to the grand entrance where the happy couple will arrive to begin their wedding festivities.
Sunset at Hodson’s Pillar: An idyllic backdrop for your wedding photographs.
Photographer: Jenny McCarthy (Photos By Jen)
Private wedding wing dedicated to the happy couple and their guests
The Wedding Wing at the Hodson Bay Hotel - a purpose-built section designed to ensure complete privacy - is exclusive to the bride, groom and their guests and of course can be personalised to their preference. On arrival, the bride and groom will make their grand entrance into the light filled Solstice Lounge for their welcome reception. This is one of Tim’s favourites rooms – “It’s a unique, bright space with gorgeous panoramic views overlooking the lake. It is always such a pleasure to see the bride and groom’s elated faces when they walk into this room filled with their nearest and dearest friends and family.”
As the party continues, the group will move towards the beautifully designed Eiscir Riada lounge – a perfect spot to reminisce and enjoy a drink from the adjoining private bar. On warmer days, pop out to the Eiscir Riada Secret Garden to capture some memorable moments or to simply take a breather from the busy festivities. This exclusive, enclosed space is an ideal space for outdoor games for summer weddings and safe and secure for little guests to play!
The centrepiece of the Wedding Wing is the show stopping Clonmacnoise Suite – a spectacular and unique room that will be dressed and lighted to perfection and to suit the tastes of the bride and groom. It’s here where the party will officially start and continue well into the early hours. Tim ensures that this space can be made perfect for each couple’s tastes - “This stunning room, full of natural day light, is truly special. It can seat up to a maximum of 410 guests and packages can be tailored for each couple”
The Stunning Clonmacnoise Suite: Athlone’s most unique ballroom.
Exceptional service and reputation – along with mouth-watering food
The dedicated Wedding Team at the Hodson Bay Hotel have a wealth of experience which has given them a well-deserved reputation as one of the country’s leading wedding venues. The team will be on hand to offer a genuine warm welcome and effortless service throughout the day.
From arrival to late into the night, guests will be treated to the finest, locally sourced, mouth-watering food. Executive Head Chef, Gavin O’Rourke, uses his Michelin Star expertise when creating the perfect wedding menu for each Hodson Bay couple.
Recent bride Jessica enjoyed every moment of her big day and in particular, the food and service – “We had our wedding at this beautiful midland’s hotel and to say we were pleased with the venue and the quality of the service provided is an understatement. The wedding team go above and beyond to ensure every little detail is precisely what the couple wants. The food is second to none, the accommodation is also top class and the staff are super helpful!”
Immaculate service and attention to detail at The Hodson Bay Hotel
Luxurious honeymoon suite and 4-star guest accommodation
The lucky couple will spend their first night as a Mr & Mrs in absolute luxury, comfort and style when they retreat to the exclusive, adult only wing of the hotel. The romantic honeymoon suite is located on the 5th floor of the Retreat Wing and has its own private outdoor balcony with unobstructed views across Lough Ree. A perfect ending to a perfect day!
The rest of the wedding guests will also be comfortably accommodated with 176 bedrooms available. The wedding couple can also choose to block book in advance for their closest family and friends.
The perfect place to wake up to on your first day of married life
The Hodson Bay Wedding Fair takes place on Sunday January 26th from 2.00 – 5.00pm – an ideal opportunity to meet the Wedding Team and to experience all that the Hodson Bay Hotel has to offer. Alternatively, for more informative about booking your perfect day, please contact the Wedding Team on 090 644 2000 or email weddings@hodsonbayhotel.com.