About
About Dovecliff Hall
A Grade II listed Georgian manor house dating back to 1790, in the Staffordshire countryside near Burton on Trent.
The House
A Georgian Manor House Since 1790
Dovecliff Hall is a Grade II listed Georgian manor house dating back to 1790, set within seven acres of landscaped gardens overlooking the River Dove, in the heart of the National Forest near Burton on Trent.
Today the Hall does three things: it hosts tailor-made weddings; it runs The Charrington Restaurant, open to everybody living nearby; and it keeps fifteen bedrooms for guests who would rather stay than drive home. With over 50 years of hospitality behind it, the same warmth runs through every stay, meal and celebration.
- 1790Thomas Thornewill, a Stretton forge-owner, builds the Georgian manor on the banks of the River Dove.
- 1843Thomas dies; the house and the family ironworks pass to his son Edward Thornewill.
- 1869Edward's daughter Harriet Georgina marries Michael Arthur Bass, becoming Lord and Lady Burton.
- 1881The estate is sold to William Joseph Smith of Derby, who also buys the Stretton ironworks.
- 1897Hugh Spencer Charrington, a Burton brewer, buys the Hall as the Bass and Charrington breweries merge.
- 1928The house opens as a hotel for the first time.
- 1936Colonel Sydney Raymond Sharp buys the Hall back as a private house — his portrait hangs in reception today.
- 1987Reopened and renamed as the Dovecliff Hall Hotel.
- TodayFifteen bedrooms, tailor-made weddings and The Charrington Restaurant — over two centuries of stories.
The Grounds
Gardens, Lawns and the River Beyond
The gardens are as much a part of Dovecliff as the house — mature trees, lawns for confetti and summer drinks, and paths that lead down toward the Dove.
Reviews
In Our Guests' Words
“Dovecliff Hall is the perfect wedding venue! The venue itself is beautiful, and so are the grounds. The staff are all welcoming and truly went above and beyond for us. We can't fault the day in any way — it was perfect.”
“We are so happy we chose Dovecliff Hall for our wedding. The venue was pure perfection, from its stunning grounds to the delicious food. The confetti walk is just picturesque! We were able to enjoy every second with our friends and family.”
“We truly couldn't have asked for a more perfect wedding. The whole reception felt intimate yet spacious. Jordan was amazing throughout. The conservatory was the perfect place for the evening party — Mamma Mia vibes! The food was incredible.”
Come and See Dovecliff for Yourself
Whether you are planning a wedding, booking a table or looking for a countryside escape near Burton-on-Trent, we would love to welcome you.