The building spent most of its life as 'Smedley's Hydro' – a hydropathic hotel owned by Derbyshire industrialist and philanthropist, John Smedley but has been home to our headquarters since 1951.
The venue is licensed for civil weddings and partnerships and is suitable for small, intimate ceremonies or larger weddings complete with reception events.
The building sits in its own grounds and gardens and has spectacular views over the Derwent Valley.
Our aim is to make to make your dream day a reality. Our dedicated functions team will be delighted to meet with you and help you plan your special day and tailor a package to suit your requirements.
We're completely flexible. We don't sell wedding packages and you won't be tied to a set formula. You're free to tailor your wedding to suit your style and budget. We can advise and give you contact details of suppliers such as caterers, florists, DJs, car hire and photographers.
The site includes:
- hundreds of free car parking spaces
- disabled access and toilets
- 800m from the train station
- 500m from town centre
- free wifi
Make an appointment to view our wedding facilities
Or email functions@derbyshire.gov.uk or telephone: 01629 536066.
Wedding and reception rooms
Our ceremony rooms can be used for ceremonies only, or with our large Members' Room for post-wedding celebrations.
Our rooms are only available on Saturdays or after 5pm on weekdays. We offer exclusivity and can guarantee no weddings taking place at the same time as yours.
Small ceremony room
Our small ceremony room holds 40 people. On weekdays and Sundays it's available for ceremonies only, but on Saturdays can be used with the Members' Room.
Large ceremony room
Seating 100 people, our large oak-panelled ceremony room provides a grand yet welcoming space for marriages and partnership ceremonies. This room is available on Saturdays. It can be booked on its own or used with the Members' Room.
Council Chamber
Our council chamber is a grand and imposing room and is available for ceremonies. It offers tiered crescent seating for up to 250 people.
Members' Room
Our Members' Room is available for your receptions with our ceremony rooms. It can also be booked for stand-alone receptions. It can hold 100 people for a sit down meal and 250 people for a more informal celebration.
It has a sprung dance floor, stage and bar and its sun terrace overlooks our extensive grounds.
Catering and suppliers
For wedding and partnership celebration events, our catering facilities are available for use and are included in the cost of the reception.
Our functions manager will help you choose one of our approved caterers to provide a sit-down meal or buffet depending on your requirements. Or you can appoint a caterer of your own choice or even do your own catering.
The Members' Room has a fully licensed and staffed bar.
You're free to use whichever companies you wish to dress the room, supply flowers, balloons, music and anything else you require. We can also suggest companies we've worked with before, if you'd prefer.
Fees
Ceremony room charge, including VAT:
- ceremony only - £275
- including reception - £2,500
Reception price includes the use of professional kitchen facilities, bar and staffing.
Ceremony and reception prices do not include registration service costs.