The Great House Archives

Venue Spotlight: Castle Hill on the Crane Estate

by Kristin Healy | Apr 30, 2015 | blog

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate

The spectacular Crane Estate encompasses more than 2,100 acres in Ipswich, Massachusetts. We’ve had the pleasure of planning Dennis and Viji’s gorgeous wedding at The Great House and it was fantastic! The mansion is stunning and the beautiful rolling hills are so picturesque – you will not find a more perfect place for your big day!

Photo Credit: Livermore Photography

History

Chicago industrialist Richard T. Crane, Jr. first purchased the 2,100 acres that would become The Crane Estate in 1910. Crane was captivated by the beautiful landscape, and over time worked with eight leading architects and landscape architects to shape his summer retreat. In 1928, he crowned the estate with a grand 59-room, Stuart-style mansion, designed by the world-renowned architect David Adler. Beyond the Great House terrace, the half-mile long Grand Allée offers an amazing view of more than 160 acres of landscaped grounds, manicured lawns, and woodland trails.

Today, the Crane Estate plays a vital role in the local community and beyond as a place for year-round recreation, historic house tours, weddings, corporate and private parties, an annual art show, summer concerts, lectures, movie filming, a popular summer camp and public volunteer opportunities.

Photo Credit: Derby Photography

Rooms/Options

The mansion can fit up to 200 people seated in several different rooms. For more than 200 guests, cocktail hour is usually held in the mansion and a tent is rented for dinner and dancing. The ceremony can be held inside the mansion or outside on the beautiful rolling hills behind the mansion, weather permitting. There are also many other outdoor options available, depending on the weather.

Photo Credit: Allegro Photography

Photo Credit: Livermore Photography

Vendor Information

Fireside Catering is the exclusive caterer for The Estate. There are other preferred vendors which are optional.

Photo Credit: Livermore Photography

Rental Information

Rental fees range from $3450-8500 depending on the month and day of week. This fee includes:

Exclusive use of The Great House event rooms and immediate surrounding grounds.
Bartenders, beverage service staff, set up and clean up staff.
Private changing rooms for the wedding couple.
(20) 60” round dining tables, (200) indoor mahogany chivari chairs, (200) outdoor white garden chairs for ceremony at The Great House.
Gate Attendant to welcome guests and direct them to parking area, ample free parking, Parking Attendant (no valet service), and Event Ranger for security.