CORKS are popping at Matfen Hall after the hotel was crowned the UK’s favourite stately home wedding venue.

Staff from the hotel picked up the award at the UK Wedding Awards, which took place at the Biltmore Mayfair on February 13.

With various categories in the awards, the public gave the vote to Matfen Hall when it came to choosing the stately home wedding venue which goes over and above for its couples and their guests.

The ancestral home of Sir Hugh and Lady Blackett, Matfen Hall has become one of the North-East’s leading wedding venues, with more than 2,000 couples having chosen to get married in its Great Hall. Last year, it celebrated 20 years of weddings.

Victoria Patton, sales and revenue manager at Matfen Hall picked up the award on the hotel’s behalf.

She travelled to London with colleagues Laura McGonnell, wedding co-ordinator and Rachel Prince, events assistant apprentice.

Victoria, who got married to her husband Callum at Matfen Hall at the end of last year, said: “It was a real honour to be selected as a finalist and we are beyond thrilled to have been named as the UK’s Best Stately Home Wedding Venue.

“Matfen Hall’s unique setting is a home for unforgettable weddings.

“Not just another stately home, our venue offers a modern take on a traditional classic.

“Our team are dedicated to and passionate about the role in a couple’s special day.”