Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - Page number 19 - September/October 2021 (Issue 88)

SPOTLIGHT ON... AVINGTON PARK, WINCHESTER 01962 779 260 | www.avingtonpark.co.uk Wend your way through the wrought iron gateway, down the long avenue of lime trees to discover this historic venue. Beautiful inside and out, with two conservatories flanking a pillared orangery, Avington Park dates back to the 10 th century and has a wonderfully grand feel to the interior. You’ll be spoilt for choice for where to pose for stunning photos. Surrounded by 150 acres of parkland, the beautifully kept grounds include two resident peacocks and lush lawns bordering the River Itchen, providing a picturesque scene all year round. Inside there are a wealth of wow-factor rooms licensed for ceremonies, including the beautifully decorated main hall. With marbled pillars and an impressive fireplace it leads into the library which boasts a grand piano and wonderful views of the south lawn. The opulent Grand Versailles Ballroom on the first floor is a jewel in the crown. Full of grandeur with a magnificently painted ceiling, gold plasterwork and huge mirrors, it provides a romantic backdrop for ceremonies with up to 100 guests and has an amazing outlook across the park. For more intimate ‘I dos’ the conservatory is ideal. The versatile space can also be used to provide extra room for the reception, the evening bar, top table or displaying the wedding cake. Combined with the adjoining library, you can host a reception for 100 seated guests and the room can be turned around later for the evening celebration with space for entertainment and a band. Larger wedding parties can be hosted in a marquee adjoining the library. We love... the living walls in the orangery, bringing the outside in with fragrant jasmine vines, lemon and orange trees. WI NCHE ST E R & EAST HAMP SH I R E All images courtesy of: www.nomadiccreatives.co.uk Where to wed in and around the cathedral city 19 REGIONAL VENUES