A UNIQUE wedding venue, with everything for the perfect big day under one roof, has been launched in Barnard Castle.
Couples can now exchange vows, relax, dine and dance the night away at the TCR Hub.
The bespoke venue, in Shaw Bank, is now licensed to host marriages and civil ceremonies as well as being able to offer a quirky setting for guests to celebrate in afterwards.
Wedding co-ordinator Vicky Taylor said: “We have done wedding receptions at The Hub but quite often couples come to us and say they would like to get married here because of the lovely lake and the views.
“We thought about it and realised there was an opportunity there to get a marriage licence. We talked to the registrar department at Durham County Council and they came out and said it would be perfect for weddings.
“It is a bit if a dream come true for us. It is something we have wanted to do for a while. It is great.”
Overlooking the lake, the wedding hall can seat up to 130 people, as can the glass-roofed atrium.
The smaller dance studio is suitable for more intimate gatherings, seating up to 70 people. There is also the lakeside room which can cater for up to ten people.
The outdoor amphitheatre can also be used for a unique wedding ceremony where guests can watch from the stone seats.
On an evening the venue, which is also dog-friendly, can cater for a maximum of 500 guests.
Ms Taylor said: “We do a build-your-own wedding package. It goes from room hire up. Anything they want to add in they can or they can do their own. The Hub is so flexible.
“If you want your wedding to be low key and simple you can, or you can go the other way and go all singing and dancing.
“We find that couples want the flexibility to put their own stamp on The Hub.
“People can decorate in here however they want to. The Hub is a blank canvas.”
Catering is provided by the on-site cafe, Kitchen by the Lake.
Ms Taylor said: “People can book an afternoon tea, three-course meal or a large buffet. We also have a fully stocked bar with an alcohol licence too so we have the full works.”
The lakeside terrace is also open to guests throughout the day including when preparations get underway for the evening celebrations.
Staging can be provided for entertainment and a professional PA system is also available for speeches.
Guests can also stay overnight with accommodation on-site which sleeps up to 33 people.
Ms Taylor said: “It is a unique building. It is quirky and it offers something that no other venue does in the area. It has beautiful outside grounds with the lake for photos. It is bespoke and everything is under one roof. It is a fantastic space. It offers so much flexibility.
“Our prices are very reasonable too. Any profits go back into the charity.”
As if the big day itself wasn’t enough to sort, staff at The Hub can also take the pressure off stag and hen parties.
With on-site accommodation and the opportunity to camp, The Hub offers a range of activities to make it a weekend to remember.
This includes high ropes, kayaking, learning to be a DJ or recording a song together in a professional music studio or even enjoying a BBQ and beers in the grounds.
Ms Taylor added: “There is everything for a wedding here. There is still that feeling that we are a youth centre but we are not.
“We have had to diversify. We are for everyone now.”
For more information or to arrange an appointment to discuss your wedding plans contact Ms Taylor on 01833 690150 or email vicky.tcrhub @gmail.com.
