www.gemhicksphotography.com www.gemhicksphotography.com MONTIGO RESORTS, SOMERSET AT CHARLTON HOUSE 01749 342 008 | https://somerset.montigoresorts.com Charlton House in Shepton Mallet, complete with its Regency grandeur, has greeted many a guest in the years following its conversion from a former family home in the 1960s, including royalty in the shape of the King of Thailand and the Duke of Edinburgh. This history of the building is just as much tied up with the vision of its proprietors, and Montigo Resorts, now at the helm, is working hard to take the venue to even greater heights. The Orangery boasts spectacularly grand iron window frames and as such it makes a fine backdrop for all parts of your wedding day. However, if al fresco “I dos” are on the cards, the dappled light of the orchard lends itself beautifully to this part of the day. Meanwhile, TIIGO provides a welcome air of informality for barbecues and hog roasts, while the bright and botanical conservatory represents a strong choice for the wedding breakfast. The team would love nothing more than to lay on a feast for you guests, which maximises the immense potential of locallysourced ingredients. Just give them a sense of the direction you’d like to take and they’ll take the reins. Best known for their modern European fare, the team are happy to try their hand at anything from Asian fusion dishes to flame grilled meat and seafood. And don’t even get us started on the talents of the amazing pastry chef! Exclusive use of the venue is available and when they say, “exclusive use,” they mean it! You can turn the venue’s spaces around to suit the various stages of your big day and have family and friends to stay. You can even make use of the spa, wellness, and fitness facilities. Charlton House doesn’t believe in prescriptive packages. There’s only one thing that matters, and that’s you! So, you can have your wedding, your way. Once your guests leave, why not treat yourselves to a spot of rest and recuperation with a quiet mini-moon at the hotel. Then, if you so desire, you can be whisked away to one of Montigo Resorts’ locations in Asia. Picture yourselves reclining on a beach in picturesque Bali, or in Nongsa, watching the sun set on Singapore across the strait of Malacca. THE BISHOP’S PALACE AND GARDENS, WELLS 01749 988 111 | https://bishopspalace.org.uk Steeped in history, The Bishop’s Palace and Gardens sits at the heart of the Medieval city of Wells in Somerset. Whether your arrival is by car or a relaxed stroll across the drawbridge, as you make your way through the arch of the ancient gatehouse you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of this stunning, 800-year-old building. The Bishop’s Palace boasts 14 acres of perfectly-kept gardens for you and your guests to enjoy, and they really do have something magical about them. With the moat surrounding the Palace, offering the tranquil sounds of flowing water, the dramatic backdrop of Wells Cathedral, picturesque willow bridge and seasonal flowers and plants all year round, this is a glorious space to gather with your loved ones. A friendly welcome awaits you here as does a glass of champagne and as you make your way onto the garden terrace overlooking the South Lawn and ramparts, simply relax and take in your surroundings. Later, you can take your seats for a memorable wedding breakfast in the atmospheric banqueting hall, which boasts a magnificent vaulted ceiling and stained-glass windows. Lit with candles, the Undercroft provides the ideal intimate atmosphere for your special day. Seating 108 at maximum capacity along stunning bespoke wooden banqueting tables, with a further 52 guests accommodated for the evening, the space is versatile and offers a fabulous way to enjoy good food surrounded by friends and family. The team work closely with a local catering partner to ensure quality, locally-sourced ingredients and an extremely high level of service. Following speeches and cake cutting, you can retire to the Portrait Gallery for coffee and cake. Relax and take time to enjoy a more informal time with your guests, while the team transform the Undercroft for the evening, whether you choose live music or a DJ. The space can accommodate 105 standing. A marquee reception overlooking the ruins of The Great Hall, provides the most spectacular alternative celebration space. You’ll enjoy exclusive hire of the site, which includes The Palace building and RHS partner gardens. A marquee in the style of your choice will be erected overlooking the majestic ruins of Bishop Burnell’s splendid dining and entertaining hall, built in the 1280s. Here, you can host 260 guests and a bespoke quote will be provided on request. 25 GLORIOUS GARDENS
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