The County Room or Ballroom is not only the largest (320 capacity) but is also the grandest room in Shire Hall and is quite simply magnificent. Once in the room you are surrounded by 200 years of history, style, sophistication and elegance. The County Room has recently been totally and lovingly restored with the help of English Heritage to its original Georgian style of decoration. This is a special room for the most splendid of occasions.

Oil portraits of The Lord Lieutenants of Essex surround the hall and two huge, gold leaf mirrors hang above marble fireplaces at opposite ends of the sprung Beechwood floor.

The opulent and regal ambience of the hall is enhanced by its high walls reaching up to a magnificent arched, cambered ceiling decorated with 1020 hand made plaster oak leaves, acorns and stems. During the day five tall windows allow plenty of natural light to enter. It also offers the added benefit of interconnection with the Picture Room.

The construction and size of the room allows variable set-ups with or without a stage and bar, and a choice of rectangular or round tables. The choice is entirely with you. We invite customised catering arrangements with a large fully equipped kitchen that can be used by you, or the caterers of your choice.

Alternatively, we can advise you with a choice of excellent catering services.

Theatre/standing 320
Dinner 200
Boardroom 72