Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Are you licensed for civil weddings and Partnership Ceremonies?
A. Yes, we are licensed to hold civil ceremonies in The Saloon, The Library, The Large and The Small Dining Room. Please contact Buckinghamshire Register Office on 01296 382 581 to confirm their availability.
Q. How many guests can you accommodate in your venues?
A. Civil Ceremony in The Saloon & The Library up to 120 guests, Dining in The Saloon 80 guests, Dining in The Library 70 guests, Civil Ceremony in The Large Dining Room 70 guests or up to 60 for dining, The Small Dining Room 30 guests for Civil Ceremonies and a maximum of 30 guests for dining. Marquee on the lawns, up to 2000 dining guests.
Q. What venues are available to site a marquee?
A. With thirty acres of Parkland to choose from the choice is entirely yours, whether it be the Walled Garden, the North terrace, or the Front Lawns.
Q. How many car parking spaces do you have for guests?
A. We have 100 hard standing parking spaces available for guests, but for larger functions we have the option of temporary soft standing spaces for a further 500 vehicles.
Q. Do you allow fireworks at the venue?
A. Yes, please confirm arrangements with Events Manager.
Q. When can we have access to the venue for dressing the room?
A. Access to the venue is allowed from 9am on the day, unless previously arranged with the Events manager.
Q. Do you have a secure room to leave wedding presents, and will they be insured?
A. Yes, however all presents and belongings are left at your own risk.
Q. Do you insist on doing all the Catering?
A. Cavendish Events are our in house caterer. If you wish to arrange an alternative caterer a surcharge will be charged at POA.
Q. Can you supply sample menus and prices?
A. Cavendish Events can be found here please contact the caterers direct for more information.
Q. Is there a corkage charge if we supply our own drinks?
A. Yes. Dorton House has an extensive wine list but if you wish to supply your own Wine, Champagne or other drinks a corkage charge will apply. Dorton House will provide a cash or free Bar on the clients request, but does not allow an outside Bar unless in exceptional circumstances.
Q. At what time do we have to finish the reception?
A. We ask that you respect local residents and the function must finish by midnight, unless prior agreement has been sought with the Events Manager.
Q. Can the photographer or other suppliers visit the venue before the wedding?
A. Yes, all suppliers can and should arrange a visit with the Events Manager.
Q. Do you have any accommodation on site?
A. No, although Dorton House can provide a list of local accommodation upon request.
Q. Does Dorton House provide the table and chairs for our function?
A. We have a limited number of antique wooden tables and chairs which are available for use at no charge, but in most circumstances tables and chairs will be hired in on your behalf at an additional cost.
