Weddings at Macdonald Bear Hotel
‘A Wedding is a love story, we will help you tell it’
On behalf of the whole team at the Bear Hotel, we would love to help you host your special day with us.
Situated in the very heart of Oxfordshire, our beautiful country escape is the perfect place for you to host your unforgettable day. The Macdonald Bear Hotel is set on the outskirts of the magnificent Blenheim palace, and boasts original 13th Century period features throughout the venue.
For a magical Oxfordshire Wedding, we can help you create stunning intimate ceremonies and receptions which can truly immerse your guests in memories which will last forever.
From your very first visit to the moment you say ‘I Do’, our dedicated Wedding Team will be here to guide and create your dream stay whilst at The Bear.
‘The Wedding Day’
Creating your Fairytale Wedding, just the way you wish.
The Bear Hotel provides a tranquil getaway in the heart of Oxfordshire, with easy access to Oxford and the Cotswolds.
Whatever you are looking for, from smaller intimate receptions to larger celebrations, The Bear is completely unique and suits so many different couples wishes. With a range of both tailored or bespoke packages, there is flexibility to ensure your day is exactly how you imagined.
Every wedding is uniquely special, and we believe your day with us should reflect this. Summer, autumn or winter, to a last minute whirlwind wedding, we’ve got a package for every occasion.
Take advantage of the stunning Blenheim Palace, right on our doorstep for a weekend retreat. Visit the palace for the most idyllic Wedding Photographs or step into the beautiful town of Woodstock, a picturesque town with an abundance of character.
‘The Wedding Night’
Our luxurious accommodation and original 13th century period features will prove a spectacularly beautiful and comfortable setting for your wedding party. With a total of 54 elegant and individually-styled bedrooms, sleeping up to 108 guests, our cosy hotel is the perfect place for guests to rest their heads.
The Bear hotel has a selection of classic rooms, deluxe rooms and suites, each room is individually styled and boast a range of modern conveniences. The Bear also welcome’s a stay with children or furry companions.
Guaranteed check-in is at 3.00pm and check-out is at 11.00am.
Providing luxury accommodation for you and your gueststo rest your heads after a memorable day.
‘The Wedding Breakfast’
The heart of all weddings are enriched by the happy couple, and fantastic food. Be inspired by our Chef’s passion for food, expressed through our bespoke menus created with flair and elegance for your Wedding day.Traditional British cuisine seasoned with a contemporary twist to create exquisite courses and menus.
Our talented Head Chef and his skilled team are passionate about the quality food they serve, it’s all about the little details to make a memorable day, unforgettable. We use only the finest seasonal ingredients and source only the best produce available.
Your first meal as Mr & Mrs
RECOMMENDED SUPPLIERS
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Bridal WearEllie Sanderson Bridal01993 357 [email protected]
MenswearCotswold Tailor01993 358 [email protected]
Florists & Room DressingGladys Doris Florist07725 643 [email protected]
Deans Chair Covers & Events01280 840 [email protected]
The Little Details Company07984 414 [email protected]
Seventh Heaven01753 546 [email protected]
Millie Miles Event Hire01869 351 [email protected]
Wedding CakesTracey Mann Cake Designs01844 347 [email protected]
EntertainmentEvolution Events UK01371 878 [email protected]
Kevin McMahon Jazz07793 361 [email protected]
Paul Megram- Magician01296 682 [email protected]
The Best Photobooths07966 053 [email protected]
PhotographersMaria Ashby-Giles01628 789 [email protected]
Mark Sisley Photography01494 721 020 www.marksisley.co.uk
Hair & Make UpMaxine Wilson07887 715 [email protected]
EXPERIENCE ULTIMATE BEAR
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Experience Ultimate Bear
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Exclusive Use Weddings
Exclusive use of all 54 individually styled Bedrooms
Bridal Suite and 2 Feature Suites night before complimentary
Champagne Afternoon tea for the Bridal Party night before
Rehearsal Dinner & Wine Experience in the Newbold for 30 guests night before the Wedding
Chiavari Chairs and Dressing of the Newbold
Early Check in on the day of Wedding from 12.00pm
Glass of Bubbly on arrival for all guests when checking in
Exclusive Use: £12,995*Please note that this package is subject to minimum numbers
depending on the time of year.Ask our Wedding Coordinator for more information
Choose your perfect package to create your special day.
INSPIRED BEAR PACKAGE
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Inspired Bear Package. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For Weddings over 40 guests
Menu Tasting for two peopleProsecco or Sparkling wine reception in Churchill Lounge/ Courtyard
Four Canapés per person during ReceptionThree Course Wedding Breakfast with Tea/coffee and amuse bouche
A glass of Prosecco for toastChiavari chairs
White Linen and NapkinsEasel For table plan
Personalised Menu CardsExclusive use of the Main restaurant for your Wedding Breakfast
Dance floorFeature Suite for the special couple on the night of the Wedding
with a bottle of ChampagneDedicated Wedding Planner
All Fridays, Saturdays & Bank Holidays 2020-2021 2022-2023
October- MarchApril- September
£85.00pp£90.00pp
£90.00pp£95.00pp
All Sundays to Thursdays 2020-2021 2022-2023
October- MarchApril- September
£75.00pp£80.00pp
£80.00pp£85.00pp
ABSOLUTE BEAR PACKAGE
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Absolute Bear Package. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For Weddings over 40 guests
Menu Tasting for two peopleProsecco or Pimms reception in Churchill Lounge/ Courtyard
Four Canapés per person during ReceptionThree Course Wedding Breakfast with Tea/coffee and amuse bouche
A glass of Prosecco for toastChiavari chairs & your chosen colour Sash
White Linen and NapkinsEasel For table plan
Personalised Menu CardsExclusive use of the Main restaurant for your Wedding Breakfast
Evening Snack MenuDance floor
Feature Suite for the special couple on the night of the Wedding with a bottle of ChampagneDedicated Wedding Planner
All Fridays, Saturdays & Bank Holidays 2020-2021 2022-2023
October- MarchApril- September
£105.00pp£110.00pp
£110.00pp£115.00pp
All Sundays to Thursdays 2020-2021 2022-2023
October- MarchApril- September
£95.00pp£100.00pp
£100.00pp£105.00pp
ULTIMATE BEAR PACKAGE
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Ultimate Bear Package. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
For Weddings over 40 guests
Menu Tasting for two peopleProsecco or Kir Royal reception in Churchill Lounge/ Courtyard
Six Canapés per person during ReceptionFour Course Wedding Breakfast, Cheese Course with Tea/coffee and amuse bouche
Half a Bottle of House Wine per adultA glass of Champagne for toast
Chiavari chairs & your chosen colour SashWhite Linen and Napkins
Easel For table planPersonalised Menu Cards
Exclusive use of the Main restaurant for your Wedding BreakfastEvening Snack Menu
Saxophonist for your evening ReceptionDance floor
Feature Suite for the special couple on the night of the Wedding with a bottle of ChampagneDedicated Wedding Planner
All Fridays, Saturdays & Bank Holidays 2020-2021 2022-2023
October- MarchApril- September
£130.00pp£135.00pp
£135.00pp£140.00pp
All Sundays to Thursdays 2020-2021 2022-2023
October- MarchApril- September
£120.00pp£125.00pp
£125.00pp£130.00pp
WEDDING MENUS- CANAPÉ MENU
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Canapé Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Black Pudding Bon Bon
Parmesan Biscuit, Sun blushed Tomato
Cheese Gougeres (v)
Confit Duck, Celeriac Remoulade
Prosciutto, Fig Jam
Smoked Mackerel Pate, Compressed Cucumber
Blue Cheese, Pickled Walnut & Quince (v)
Mushroom & Truffle Arancini (v)
Rare Roast Beef, Horseradish Cream
Thai Fish Cake, Sweet Chilli Jam
Crab & Chive Tartlet
Smoked Salmon Blini, Caviar, Dill
Quail Scotch Egg
Prices are as follows:Four Canapés- £6 per person | Five Canapés- £10 per person
Six Canapés- £12 per person
WEDDING MENUS- BREAKFAST MENU
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Further course may be added at an additional cost. Vegetarian options & other dietary requirements can be catered for with advanced notice.
Intermediate Courses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Soup(Available either as a starter or an amuse-bouche, a supplement of £3.50 per person applies)
Roasted Tomato, Basil Oil, Crème Fraiche (v)
Celeriac, Apple, Truffle (v)
Roasted Pumpkin, Toasted Seeds (v)
Jerusalem Artichoke, Leek Powder (v)
Mushroom & Tarragon (v). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sorbets(A supplement of £3.95 per person applies)
Choose from the following:
Coconut, Mango, Apple, Nutmeg, Raspberry, Lemon, Champagne
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Fish(A supplement of £9.95 per person applies)
Baked Lemon Sole Fillets, Crab Bisque
Poached Salmon, Cucumber Ribbons, Hollandaise
Crab & Citrus Salad, Dill & Buttermilk Dressing
Roasted Cod Loin, Smoked Haddock Chowder
WEDDING MENUS- BREAKFAST MENU
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Please choose one starter, one main course & one dessert from the menu below. Further course may be added at an additional cost. Vegetarian options & other dietary requirements can be
catered for with advanced notice.
Starters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chicken Liver ParfaitToasted Brioche, Baked Fig,
Fig Jam, Watercress
Burrata (v)Roasted Purple Beetroot,
Compressed Candy Beetroot, Pickled Mushrooms, Olive Oil, Focaccia
Soused MackerelQuinoa, Pickled Fennel, Roasted Red Pepper, Smoked Paprika Yoghurt, Spiced Aubergine
Smoked SalmonHorseradish Crème Fraiche, Grated Egg,
Capers, Compressed Cucumber, Dill
Game TerrineApple & Plum Chutney, Celeriac Remoulade,
Grilled Sourdough, Endive Salad
Smoked Duck BreastDuck Liver Parfait, Fresh Figs,
Pickled Kholrabi, Poached Cherries, Cherry Gel
Chicken Caesar SaladPoached Chicken Breast, Cos Lettuce, Caesar Dressing, Anchovies, Croutons,
Shaved Parmesan
Grilled Asparagus (v)Pancetta Lardons, Duck Egg, Black Truffle,
Lemon Mayonnaise
Hand Dived ScallopsSalt Baked Celeriac, Celeriac & Truffle Puree,
Apple & Walnut Salad, Black Truffle, Chorizo Crumb
(£4 supplement)
WEDDING MENUS- BREAKFAST MENU
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Please choose one starter, one main course & one dessert from the menu below. Further course may be added at an additional cost. Vegetarian options & other dietary requirements can be
catered for with advanced notice.
Main Courses. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Roasted Chicken BreastFondant Potato, Savoy Cabbage,
Roast Carrot, Red Wine Jus
Cauliflower SteakCauliflower & Parmesan Puree, Truffle Mash,
Cured Cauliflower, Toasted Almonds, Parmesan Crisp
Miso CodPak Choi, Compressed Mooli,
Enoki Mushrooms, Mushroom Dashi
Grilled King Oyster MushroomMushroom Ketchup, Broccoli Stem, Broccoli & Hazelnut Salad, Endive
Braised Beef BrisketParma Ham, Horseradish Mash,
Roasted Onion, Tender Stem Broccoli, Onion Gravy
Pork TenderloinStornoway Black Pudding, Roasted Apple, Pickled Red Cabbage, Crackling, Cider Jus
Fillet of SalmonCrushed New Potato, Samphire, Mussels, Vermouth Cream Sauce
Best End of LambLamb Fat Cous Cous, Sun Blushed Tomato,
Ratatouille, Courgette & Basil, Basil Oil
Beef WellingtonCrushed Celeriac, Roasted Vegetables,
Madeira Jus(£8 supplement)
Poached LobsterBasil Butter, Courgette Frites, Dressed Salad
(£12 supplement)
WEDDING MENUS- BREAKFAST MENU
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Please choose one starter, one main course & one dessert from the menu below. Further course may be added at an additional cost. Vegetarian options & other dietary requirements can be
catered for with advanced notice.
Desserts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Sticky Toffee PuddingDate Crumb, Butterscotch Sauce,
Vanilla Crème Fraiche
Apple CheesecakePrune Puree, Cinnamon Doughnut,
Apple Sorbet
Dark Chocolate TorteCherry Gel, Poached Cherries,
Crispy Cherry Yoghurt, Chantilly Cream, Cherry Espuma
Lemon PossetRaspberry Gel, Candied Lemon,
Raspberry Sorbet
Buttermilk Panna CottaRhubarb Jelly, Granola, Honeycomb,
Rhubarb Compote
Cherry Bakewell TartToasted Almond, Cherry Syrup,
Clotted Cream
Steamed Syrup Sponge PuddingMarinated Pineapple, Golden Syrup,
Ginger Cream
Chocolate BrownieChocolate Sauce, Chocolate Soil,
Vanilla Ice Cream
Gooseberry FoolPoached Gooseberries, Vanilla Yoghurt,
Pistachio Biscotti
Lemon TartLemon Gel, Shortbread Crumb,
Lemon Crème Fraiche
British Cheese Course5 Cheeses, Lavosh, Biscuits, Fig Jam, Grapes
(£5 supplement)
WEDDING MENUS- EVENING MENU
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Further course may be added at an additional cost. Vegetarian options & other dietary requirements can be catered for with advanced notice.
Evening Menu. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Finger Buffet
A Selection of Sandwiches & Wraps
Egg Mayonnaise (v)
Cheddar & Pickle (v)
Honey Roast Ham, Tomato Chutney
Tuna & Sweet corn
Coronation Chicken. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Savoury Items
Chicken Satay
Mini Cheeseburgers
Mini Fishcakes
Pizza Slice
Pork Pies
Fish Goujons, Tartar Sauce
Assorted Mini Quiche
Highland Lamb Koftas, Mint Dip
Bowl Food
(a supplement of £10 per person applies)
Chicken Curry, Basmati Rice
Vegetable Curry, Basmati Rice (v)
Beef Chilli, Nachos, Rice
Mushroom & Truffle Risotto (v)
Poached Fish, New Potato, Chowder. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
BBQ(a supplement of £15 per person applies,
only available April-September)
Cumberland Sausage
Scottish Beef Burgers, Baps, Relish
Vegetable Skewers (v)
Jacket Potato, Chive Cream Cheese (v)
Buttered Corn on the Cob (v)
Cucumber & Yoghurt Salad (v)
Tomato Cous Cous Salad (v)
Lemon Posset, Fresh Raspberries
Prices are as follows:5 Items- £20 per person | 6 Items- £22 per person
8 Items- £25 per person
Bacon/ Sausage Baps at £8pp | Mushroom and egg Baps at £8pp | Add a Bowl of Truffle Chips at £6pp
ACCOMMODATION
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
We offer a guaranteed bedroom rate for your guests, up until six weeks prior to the wedding.
You will not be tied into any bedrooms, however we can provisionally reserve a number of bedrooms for your guests to book at a discounted rate starting from £169.00 per
room inclusive of breakfast.
Where possible, we will endeavour to extend your preferential rate should your guests wish to stay with us the night prior to your wedding.
Upgrades are available at the following additional rates:Executive Double- £40.00 per room
Feature Double/Twin room- £80.00 per roomSuite- from £250.00 per room
Please note, guests attending your wedding will have bedrooms allocated above the Main restaurant due to noise.
To book accommodation, please ask your guests to call our reservations or events team on 01993 811124 during office hours and state the name and date of the wedding.
Credit or debit card details will be required at the time of booking to confirm, but payment will only be taken upon check-out.
Bedrooms can be cancelled up to 48 hours prior to your guest’s day of arrival without charge.
Guaranteed check-in is at 3.00pm and check-out is at 11.00am
FAQS
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Do you allow lit candles?Yes, you are more than welcome to have lit candles, as long as they are in a candle
holder or lantern.
Do you allow Confetti?Yes, we allow fully biodegradable confetti to be used outside only.
When can we bring Wedding Items and accessories to the Hotel?We have a fantastic Events Manager and events team who will be happy to store
Wedding items or belongings overnight. You can discuss finer details with your Wedding Coordinator closer to the day.
When will the Bar close?The Bar has to officially close at midnight on the day of the event.
However if you have exclusive use, you are able to carry on partying until dawn.
Will we be the only Wedding on the day?We are a beautiful intimate Wedding venue, therefore you will be the only Wedding at
the Bear.
Do you allow external caterers?All catering for weddings taking place at the Bear will be supplied by ourselves. We have
a fantastic Head Chef who is able to create bespoke menus for your special day.
USEFUL INFORMATION
WWW.MACDONALDHOTELS.CO.UK/BEARAll details are correct at time of going to print, however may be subject to change from time to time.
If you have any questions regarding our ingredients, or if you have a food allergy or intolerance please speak to your Wedding Coordinator. For Full Terms and Conditions, please visit our website.
Next Steps…
Deposit & Payment termsA non-refundable deposit of £1,000 is required at the time of booking in order to secure your reservation. We will also require a signed contract to be returned within two weeks.
All bookings are then subject to the following payment schedule:50% payment six months prior
30% payment three months priorFinal Full payment one month prior
The Wedding should be fully pre-paid by one month prior to the wedding date.Should you wish to order anything on the day, you will be asked to leave credit or debit
card details.
External Suppliers
We have many recommended suppliers that you are welcome to use.If you wish to source your own suppliers, we will ask for their contact details.