Stanbrook Abbey in Worcester was the home of a group of Benedictine nuns until 2009, when they moved to North Yorkshire in favour of a more eco-friendly building, writes Molly Dyson. Their relocation has benefited the events sector, as the property was purchased by Amazing Venues and turned into a truly unique setting for meetings and conferences.
I’m treated to a tour of the venue on my visit, which starts in the stunning Callow Great Hall with its vaulted ceilings, original wooden pews and beautiful stained-glass windows. Although the building is no longer used for religious ceremonies, the remaining iconography in this space creates a sense of grandeur befitting a classy pre-dinner drinks reception.
The building is so large the tour takes a while, especially as I’m interested in hearing about the history of each room. The Thompson Dining Room features hand-carved wooden fixtures designed by the famous furniture maker Robert Thompson, while St Anne’s Hall opens on to a large balcony and terrace for summer parties. There’s also a selection of smaller meeting rooms and the Piano Lounge, which looks perfect for swanky drinks and canapés while a pianist plays softly in the background.
My tour ends at the manor house, which features five en-suite bedrooms, including the Malvern Suite, where I’ll be staying for the night. Each of the rooms is individually designed to give the house even more character than its 18th-century architecture already provides. On the ground floor is an impressive powder room, where guests can freshen up before going through to the modern kitchen, with its state-of-the-art appliances and large dining table. I find breakfast items waiting for me in the refrigerator – sausages, bacon, smoked salmon, eggs, orange juice, milk and yoghurt, plus a basket full of various cereals, bread and jam.
My room is so spacious it feels more like a small flat. The long hallway leads first to a massive bathroom with a claw-foot tub, walk-in rainforest shower and Jack and Jill sinks. Next is a dressing room that features enough storage for my entire wardrobe, plus plenty of space for shoes and other accessories. The bedroom completes the suite and includes a small desk, comfortable chairs and a very plush king-size bed with a feather duvet and big, fluffy pillows. After relaxing with some of my favourite TV shows, I drift off to sleep quickly thanks to my virtually silent surroundings.
In the morning, I wake up refreshed and indulge in the lightly scented Asprey toiletries provided in the bathroom. As I make breakfast and sip a cup of coffee while I take in the tranquil views of the property, I’m sad my time is so short.
The manor house is available for exclusive hire, making it ideal for corporate retreats. Plus, a further 52 bedrooms will be available by the end of the year. Stanbrook Abbey is a hidden gem that is well worth considering for an event with a difference.
Stanbrook Abbey, Callow End, Worcestershire WR2 4TY; 01905 409 300; amazingvenues.co.uk/venues/stanbrook-abbey/discover-stanbrook-abbey/. Rates start from £995 a night for exclusive use of the five-bedroom manor house
