Ancaster Old Town Hall

Ancaster Old Town Hall has been gathering people beneath its arched windows since the 1870s.

A wedding simply gives it a new reason.

Built in stone in the heart of Ancaster, the historic hall keeps much of the character that makes an old civic building feel so different from a purpose-built ballroom. Hardwood floors stretch beneath a high ceiling, tall arched windows bring light into the room and a stage waits at one end for whatever the celebration asks of it.

Up to 120 guests can gather for a ceremony-style setup, while banquet receptions can seat around 90.

That scale makes the room feel wonderfully personal.

There is enough space for the people who matter without putting half the wedding at the far end of an enormous ballroom. Flowers, greenery, long tables or candlelight can soften the old hall in completely different directions, but the building never disappears underneath the decoration.

Nor should it.

Its stone walls and old windows are the reason to choose it.

The ceremony can happen here and the room can change again for the celebration, with a serving kitchen supporting the practical side of the evening.

Then comes the loveliest transformation.

The aisle that mattered so much a few hours earlier is gone.

Dinner has been eaten.

The speeches have wandered pleasantly off script.

And the hardwood floor of an old Ontario town hall has become a dance floor.

More than 150 years after Ancaster first began gathering here, another roomful of people has found a reason to celebrate.

• Outdoor ceremonies
• On the water, or with water views
• Gardens and grounds
• A chapel on site
• A historic setting
• A patio or terrace
• Tented celebrations possible
• On a golf course
• Open for weddings year-round
• Sparklers or fireworks send-offs
• Parking on site
• Accessible