EVESHAM’S iconic Wood Norton Hotel is celebrating 108 years since it held it’s own royal wedding.
Observer editor Rob George found out more about the day royalty from around the world descended on the Vale.
IN NOVEMBER1907 Princess Louise of Orleans and Prince Charles of Bourbon were joined in matrimony at Wood Norton Hall, Evesham – a breath taking manor house crafted for French King Duc D’Olreans.
Or so some historical sources say.
In fact, the chapel at Wood Norton Hall was actually too small to accommodate all royal guests, a number so vast it was seldom seen at such celebrations, that a temporary chapel was built on the lawn.
However as it had not been consecrated, the royal couple were officially married in a civil ceremony performed by the Bishop of Birmingham in Evesham’s centre.
For the ceremony the bride wore a gown of white satin charmeuse, with large branches or orchids embroidered in silk and chenille.
Sources also report that the Bishop, Father d’Armaillacq was so touched by the affection of bride’s brother, Duc D’Orleans and his ability to erect a chapel if by magic, that during the ceremony he preached positively about England, declaring it to be the land of the free – the country which her royal highness’ parents so dearly loved.
After the couple exchanged nuptials they returned to Wood Norton Hall for a celebration with all royal guests including King Alfonso of Spain, Queen Amelia of Portugal and representatives of the English Royal Family.
Following the wedding, the royal couple moved to Madrid where they resided for many years while Duc D’Orleans and his immediate family remained at Wood Norton Hall until 1912.
Following a £10million refurbishment programme, Wood Norton Hall re-opened as The Wood Norton in late 2012.
In three short years, the historic venue has become one of Worcestershire’s leading luxurious hotels and wedding venues, enjoyed by couples across the county.
The hotel owners have maintained the original 19th Century French decorative interiors throughout and combined it with the very best the modern world has to offer.
Now hosting over 80 weddings a year, The Wood Norton’s dedicated team work hard to ensure each and every bride enjoys their own royal wedding experience.
In addition, the hotel’s recently built events suite, ‘The Orangery’ enables couples to host larger parties and combine their own creative themes with The Wood Norton’s conventional appearance.
Visit www.woodnortonweddings.com/wedding-2016-special-offer for more information.
