Press Releases

February 02 2009

Now couples can tie the knot at Gorton Monastery

Couples can now get married in the magnificent surroundings of Gorton Monastery in east Manchester, one of the North’s premier events venues.

And during the approaching Valentine’s weekend anyone thinking about a wedding, retaking their vows or even proposing can have a close look at The Monastery during a special Valentine’s Concert evening of music and romance.

When The Monastery first opened as an events venue in September 2007 after a £6 million restoration project supported by New East Manchester it did not qualify for a licence for civil marriages.  Although couples could have their wedding receptions there, they had to tie the knot elsewhere first.

Now – with a record of holding scores of spectacular major events – The Monastery has been granted a licence for civil marriages and civil partnerships.

Elaine Griffiths, The Monastery’s Chief Executive, said: “The law on civil marriages says that licences can't be granted for premises with a ‘recent or continuing connection with any religion, religious practice or religious persuasion’ but since the renovation of The Monastery it is now recognised as a major events venue so it qualifies for a licence.

“The Monastery of old was always famous for weddings and family occasions and so many local people still come in to talk about their cherished memories and to show us their photographs from the best day of their lives.

“It is really special that we are able to hold weddings at the Monastery once again and it is even better to be able to give couples of all beliefs, faiths and backgrounds a chance to take their vows and hold a celebration party for family and friends in this magical space.

“We have always had lots of enquiries for weddings and it is wonderful that now we don’t have to turn anyone away since we received this fantastic news about the licence.  We can cater for every size of celebration, from a small and intimate gathering to a spectacular event for hundreds.”

Eddie Smith, Chief Executive of New East Manchester, said: “The Trust is doing great work for the benefit of the local community and being able to host marriage ceremonies and receptions there will add to those benefits and help sustain the Trust in the long term.”

The Valentine’s Concert evening of music and romance on Sunday 15 February, starting at 7.30pm, will feature Manchester’s own international tenor Martin Toal, with leading UK violinist Craig Owen and the area’s local singing stars, the Gorton Voice Choir.

Ticket are £15, concessions £10. Ticket office on 0845 600 9370.  All proceeds in aid of the Monastery of St Francis and Gorton Trust.

For more information about The Monastery visit www.gortonmonastery.co.uk