Q: What does ‘dry hire’ mean at Craig y Nos Castle?A: A dry hire wedding means you’re booking a flexible event space without additional services. At Craig y Nos Castle, this means you have exclusive access to the Conservatory and its terrace, allowing you to bring in your own suppliers for catering, beverages, and entertainment. It’s the perfect option for couples who want a truly personalised wedding in a unique and historic setting.
Q: Which areas are included in the venue dry hire?A: The dry hire option includes exclusive use of the Conservatory and its terrace. Additionally, you have non-exclusive access to the Castle Courtyard, Atrium Yard, Theatre Gardens, and Lower Gardens.
Q: Can we bring our own suppliers?A: Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own caterers, bar staff, decorators, DJs, florists, and other vendors. We also have a list of recommended suppliers familiar with the venue to assist you.
Q: Is there a corkage fee?A: No, under the dry hire option, there is no corkage fee. You’re free to supply your own drinks for your event.
Q: Are tables and chairs provided?A: Yes, we provide Chiavari chairs and round tables to accommodate your guests, eliminating the need for external rentals and to save the environment.
Q: How much does it cost?A: Cost of Conservatory Dry Hire is £1,390.
Q: What else is included?A: You will also have use of the Conservatory Kitchen for food storage, serving, and washing up (cooking not permitted). Additionally, you’ll have non-exclusive access to the Courtyard, Atrium Yard, Theatre Gardens, and Lower Gardens.
🍷Q: Can we run our own bar at Craig y Nos Castle?A: Yes, you can operate your own bar when booking the Conservatory under our Dry Hire option. There are two main ways to manage your drinks service:
1. Free Drinks (Self-Service Option)You may supply your own bottled wines and soft drinks for the tables, or set up a free drinks table for guests. Guests who want draft beer or other bar drinks can visit the main hotel bar (open to all guests) and return to the Conservatory with their drinks.
2. Commercial Bar (Sell Drinks to Guests)You can also operate a paid bar as a commercial venture:
Hire our Conservatory Bar for £500
Stock it with your own wines, beers, spirits, mixers, crisps, and snacks
Appoint a licensed person to serve drinks and ensure compliance with alcohol licensing laws
If you don’t have your own licensed staff, we can provide a professional bar person for you, at a typical rate of £15/hour plus VAT (2026 pricing).
Key Notes:
All private drinks must be consumed only within the Conservatory and on its terrace
Running your own bar allows you to control costs and offer custom drink selections
With thoughtful pricing, your bar can even help offset wedding costs
Q: What is the cleaning policy post-event?A: We ask that all areas used are left in a clean state. Plates, cutlery, and other items should be washed and returned. If additional cleaning is required, a fee will be applied.
Q: Is the venue suitable for other events besides weddings?A: Absolutely! Our dry hire option is ideal for various events, including:
🎂 Birthday Celebrations
💍 Anniversary Parties
💼 Corporate Events & Retreats
🧘 Yoga, Wellness & Meditation Retreats
👨👩👧👦 Family Reunions
💖 Charity Fundraisers
🌍 Cultural Festivals & Gatherings
🗣️ Conferences, Workshops & Seminars
Q: Are guests required to stay at the castle?
A: No, there is no obligation for your guests to stay at Craig y Nos Castle. However, guests who stay onsite tend to party later and enjoy the full experience without travel concerns.
Q: Do guests pay for their own accommodation?A: Yes, each guest books and pays for their own room directly. This keeps things simple for the couple and allows guests to choose their preferred option.
Q: What are the B&B rates for wedding guests?A: We offer discounted Bed & Breakfast rates for wedding parties:
£150 per night for two people in an en-suite room (first night)
£105 per night for two people in an en-suite room (second night onwards)
£70 per night for two in a non-ensuite room (shared facilities – budget option)
Q: Are Room Only rates available for guests?A: Yes. We also offer Room Only accommodation for those who don’t require breakfast:
£99 per room, per night (for two people in an en-suite room)
Breakfast is not included with this option.
Q: What are the breakfast options for Room Only guests?A: Room Only guests can:
Arrange private breakfast catering (e.g., street food vans, DIY breakfast)
Visit the Craig y Nos Country Park Café, where breakfast is served all day at £12 per person
Q: Is it possible to book all guest rooms at the castle?A: Yes – block bookings are available for wedding parties. Contact us early to secure multiple rooms for your guests.
Q: How can I book a viewing or get more information?A: You can contact us directly through our website or call us to schedule a viewing and discuss your event requirements in detail.