When you’re planning a celebration, you want it to feel easy, relaxed and a bit special — without spending weeks stressing over the details.
At The Courthouse Hotel Smythesdale, we host everything from milestone birthdays to work break-ups and family catch-ups, and we’re big on keeping things personal, welcoming and well organised.
Here are five reasons our functions just feel different (in a good way).
1. A Venue That Feels Like “Your Place” For The Day
From the moment you arrive, the space feels warm and familiar — like a local favourite, just dialled up a notch.
Our venue is spacious but cosy, with different areas that suit all kinds of events: birthdays, hens and bucks, reunions, work parties or long-overdue family gatherings.
It’s private enough that your group can relax and settle in, while still enjoying that lively, friendly atmosphere The Courthouse is known for. No cold, echoey function rooms — just good energy, great service and a space that feels like yours.
2. Food People Actually Look Forward To
No one gets excited about tiny bites on a tray.
At The Courthouse, we focus on proper, satisfying food that people remember for the right reasons. Think:
- Wood-fired pizzas with that smoky, crispy base
- Comfort favourites like parmas, burgers and hearty mains
- Flexible options to suit how you want the day to feel — shared plates, grazing style or sit-down meals
It’s all about real food, generous portions and happy guests (not sneaking off for takeaway on the way home).
3. Simple, Flexible Drinks Options
Whether you’re keeping it low-key or going all-out, we’ll help you choose a setup that actually makes sense for your group.
You can:
- Run a bar tab to a set amount
- Offer a drinks package
- Let guests pay as they go
We’ll talk you through what usually works best for your style of event and budget. Expect cold beers, quality wines and classic cocktails, without confusing fine print or surprise extras.
4. A Team That’s In Your Corner
We’re not the kind of venue that takes your booking and disappears until the day.
From your first message to the last toast of the night, our team is here to help. Need a hand with timing? Wondering how much food you’ll really need? Want to add a cake, a speech spot or a little surprise for someone special?
We genuinely enjoy working with you to make the day feel thought-through and personal — not like you’ve just been slotted into a time slot.
5. Moments That Actually Matter
In the end, the best parts of any function are simple:
- The laughs across the table
- The speeches that get a bit emotional
- The songs everyone sings along to
- The memories people talk about for years
Our job is to create the backdrop for those moments — good food, easy drinks, a relaxed space and a team that’s paying attention — so you can focus on enjoying the people you’re with.
Ready To Start Planning?
If you’ve got a date in mind (or even just a rough idea), we’d love to chat about it.
Get in touch with The Courthouse Hotel Smythesdale to start planning your next function — we’re here to help you make it something special. 🥂
