AN Essex country manor hailed as a “hidden gem” has won a regional title at one of the UK wedding industry’s biggest awards.
Downham Hall, a family-run Georgian manor between Billericay and Wickford, won the East of England Wedding Venue category at the 2027 Wedding Industry Awards.
The venue had reached the finals before but never won the regional title.
Winners are chosen using feedback from couples who married at the venues in the previous 12 months and assessments by more than 160 independent wedding industry experts.
Owner Christina Metcalfe said the Downham Hall team was “still on cloud nine” after finally winning.
She said: “Having entered several times in previous years and reached the finals, finally being judged as ‘the one’ is a dream come true. To say I am chuffed to bits is an understatement.
“This award is a testament to years of hard work and dedication from our entire team, who pour so many hours into working both behind the scenes and alongside our couples to ensure every wedding is unforgettable.”
Downham Hall entered 2026 with more than 40 weddings booked, its strongest year since Covid, before expanding further with the opening of its long-planned new events barn in October.
The country venue has hosted wedding ceremonies since 2020, giving couples use of the house and grounds.
It has three indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, while receptions can now be held inside its new luxury barn which opened in October.
Guests can stay in five individually designed bedrooms, including a bridal suite, and dogs are welcome at weddings.
Downham Hall’s North Wing Restaurant provides in-house catering and holds two AA Rosettes.
Christina added: “We have long been considered a hidden gem in the Essex countryside, and we couldn't be prouder to shine on a regional stage.”
Wedding Industry Awards founder Damian Bailey said competition had been “tough”, with 25,344 client votes across the event.
He said the regional winners had “risen to the top in an industry that absolutely demands the best”.
Downham Hall will now represent the East of England in the national finals.
The venue also won Manor House and Boutique Hotel Wedding Venue of the Year at the Essex Wedding Awards 2026.
The new barn can accommodate up to 100 seated guests or 180 standing, and is also available for milestone celebrations and corporate events.
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