Your Sussex Wedding - June/July 2024 (Issue 109)

SOUTHEND BARNS 01243 641 247 | https://southendbarns.co.uk Set on a working farm in the beautiful West Sussex countryside, Southend Barns is surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens and ample outdoor space with a picturesque courtyard that lies at the heart of the venue – safe for children and the perfect spot for reception drinks and garden games. As evening falls, the gardens are lit with romantic up-lights that highlight the fantastic flint and log walls of the wedding barns. Here, guests can gather in the relaxing and sheltered Collecting Yard with its sumptuous sofas, firepit and al fresco bar to enjoy a truly magical evening setting. The Dairy Barn has been lovingly restored with rustic charm and romantic touches and can host 120 loved ones for a ceremony. With a wonderful sweeping 22-metre aisle, exposed wooden beams and benches made of sweet chestnut, it’s an idyllic setting to tie the knot. Southend Barns also has a fully licensed outdoor ceremony area known as The Secret Garden, which can accommodate up to 100 guests. This enchanting garden is nestled in a tranquil spot between the resident alpacas’ field and the flint walls of the Dairy Barn. Post-vows, dine and dance the night away in the magnificent 220-year-old Threshing Barn, which is full of warmth and character with its authentic wooden beams and wrought iron chandeliers. Large windows provide spectacular views of the landscaped gardens and sunsets over the surrounding countryside. The Threshing Barn can seat 120 diners, and 200 guests can attend the evening reception. When tying the knot here, there’s also on-site accommodation with a luxurious shepherd’s hut, large bridal suite that comes with everything you could need and six beautiful new bell tents, set in a picturesque meadow. Southend Barns has its own in-house catering team known as Roots. Offering mouth-watering and innovative menus using seasonal and fresh produce, sourced from local suppliers or grown on-site in the venue’s kitchen garden, Roots runs special menu tasting events for couples. AMBERLEY CASTLE 01798 831 992 | www.amberleycastle.co.uk Amberley Castle is a luxury hotel located in the picturesque village of Amberley at the foot of the South Downs. This magnificent 900-yearold castle is enclosed by a 60-foot-high curtain wall and portcullis that remains open, behind which you’ll find the enchanting hotel offering the highest standards of food and service, and all the luxurious facilities you’d expect. Every part of the building and grounds is steeped in history. Enjoy discovering the tennis courts, 18-hole putting green and croquet lawn, and even the resident peacock roaming the grounds. For those seeking tranquillity and relaxation, there are many quiet corners under the shade of a tree or by the fireside. There are several licensed spaces here to enjoy for your ceremony and reception. The King Charles Room can hold up to 12 guests and boasts views of the church yard. Nestled away on the second floor, behind the Queens Room restaurant it’s bursting with character thanks to its full-length oak-panelled walls and original furnishings. The Green Room, which can host 12 loved ones, offers a Medieval backdrop with views of the castle grounds and rolling Sussex countryside. The Great Room is the largest private dining area in the castle and can accommodate 40 of your nearest and dearest. Located on the ground floor with access to the main courtyard, the room is complete with a large fireplace, oil paintings and antique weapons. The grounds include multiple beauty spots suitable for a wide variety of wedding sizes, whether it be the intimate isle inside the castle wall or in front of the castle overlooking the lake. When taken as an exclusive venue, Amberley Castle can accommodate a marquee in the idyllic gardens. Maximum capacities at the venue are 170 for the ceremony and wedding breakfast and 250 for the evening do. You’ll also be offered a complimentary anniversary dinner. www.elizabethrubyphotography.com LOCAL VENUES 21

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