HIGHER HOLCOMBE, OTTERY ST MARY This enchanting venue that’s set in 30 acres of pasture has been transformed into woodland glades and wildflower meadows, revealing the Silver Birch ‘church’ which is an avenue of silver birch trees providing shade for al fresco ceremonies of up to 60 guests with a secluded, romantic feel. This space also lends itself to an outdoor picnic as an alternative to the wedding breakfast. Ceremonies take place outside in The Willow ‘cathedral’ - a specially planted area that features three outdoor ‘chapels’ at the end of the walkway aisle for up to 80 guests. There’s also a stretch tent in the ‘posh paddock’ for outdoor ceremonies (if the weather is unpredictable) or a drinks reception, plus there’s a firepit for use when the sun goes down. From the orchard, there’s a bridge over the brook that leads to the sandstone terrace located in front of the wooden Old Dairy party barn nestled in the heart of the site where receptions take place. This is a beautifully renovated old milking parlour boasting a rustic neutral colour palette for couples to decorate as they wish and south-facing views of the Devonshire countryside across the length of one wall. The handmade wooden trestle tables can seat up to 80 loved ones on benches or chairs and at dusk, the ambience lighting adds a special touch. The farmhouse Mediterranean courtyard can be enjoyed for intimate pre-wedding dinners and a morning-after brunch. The spacious modern farmhouse accommodates the main wedding party while other guests can stay in the unique Lotus Belle glamping tents and cute shepherd’s huts with all accommodations included in the venue hire. There’s also the quirky, self-contained Hobbit House honeymoon suite nestled deep in the heart of the stunning grounds. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 07740 978 408, www.higherholcombe.co.uk HAREFIELD BARN, CREDITON A large oak-framed porch welcomes guests to Harefield Barn that’s situated on a family-run farm, just a 10-minute drive from Exeter enjoying views of the surrounding Devonshire countryside. It’s a wedding photographer’s dream, being light and airy thanks to the gable end window and with a modern and spacious yet homely feel. Glass walling is used extensively to showcase the fabulous views. Three sets of large bi-fold doors open out on to the spacious paved terrace from both the Sawpit Bar and Main Hall, with crisp horizontal boarding finishing the exterior, and the terrace flows seamlessly on to extensive lawn areas and the field beyond. On the terrace, The Clock House provides the perfect location for an al fresco ceremony, and steps lined with ornamental grasses lead to the special horseshoe sculpture. There’s also a wildflower meadow with pathways, perfect for photographs. Inside ceremonies can take place in The Tallet, a dedicated ceremony room where the vaulted ceiling and flexible lighting provide a calm, chapel-like atmosphere. Licensed for up to 100 people, The Tallet can be used alongside the spacious bar and gallery areas. There’s also the Main Hall, a large licensed area for 150 guests seated and up to 200 loved ones standing. In contrast, The Leveret Suite is perfect for an intimate marriage before a larger ceremony, licensed for up to 10 people. The reception meal for up to 140 guests and the evening party for up to 200 people usually take place in the Main Hall, although intimate gatherings are possible in The Bar area. Use of Harefield Barn and its grounds is exclusive and the extended hire period gives them the entire day beforehand to decorate and prepare. Couples can choose their suppliers (including caterers) to create a celebration personal to them. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 07541 121 404, www.harefieldbarn.co.uk 18
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTA0NTE=