WEALD & DOWNLAND LIVING MUSEUM 01243 811 032 | www.wealddown.co.uk/weddings The Weald & Downland Living Museum is a hidden gem, located among 40 acres of glorious countryside in the Lavant Valley at the centre of the South Downs National Park. With the character of the museum as your backdrop and limited dates available each year, you’ll be assured a day that few couples get to share. Completed in 2002, the Download Gridshell was the first building of its kind built in the UK. Built from solid oak laths, bent into a double curvature, it takes its name from the shell-like shape that results. Today it hosts ceremonies and receptions for up to 180 people. Additionally, the Upper Hall is licensed too and can seat 50. Crawley Hall is situated in the heart of the venue’s Medieval market square. Surrounded by historical buildings and cobbled paths, this charming timber-framed barn is an ideal choice for intimate “I dos” and celebrations with up to 50 guests. After the ceremony you can enjoy the museum grounds and facilities followed by a rustic picnic buffet next to the tranquil millpond. The Greenways Field is a blank canvas offering an idyllic setting and photo opportunities aplenty. Here, it’s possible to pitch a marquee for up to 500 loved ones. SOUTHEND BARNS 01243 641247 | www.southendbarns.co.uk Set on a working farm in the beautiful West Sussex countryside and surrounded by stunning landscaped gardens and peaceful courtyards, Southend Barns has been lovingly restored with rustic charm and romantic touches. There’s ample outdoor space with a picturesque courtyard that lies at the heart of the venue. It’s a space for children and the ideal spot for reception drinks and garden games. As evening falls, the gardens are lit with romantic up-lights that show off the flint and log walls of the wedding barns. Here, guests can gather around the Collecting Yard with its sumptuous sofas, firepit an al fresco bar. The simple yet romantic Dairy Barn is fully-licensed for all civil ceremonies and partnerships. With a wonderful sweeping 22-metre aisle, exposed wooden beams and benches it holds up to 120 guests and can also be used after the “I dos” for a drinks reception or transformed into an entertainment room for children. There’s also an outdoor ceremony garden nestled in a tranquil spot between the resident alpaca’s field and the Dairy Barn. Using natural elements that complement the rest of the barn, The Secret Garden is a hidden gem that features a 50-foot aisle set amidst peaceful scenery and seats up to 100. The Threshing Barn can seat 120 diners and 200 loved ones can attend the evening reception. The 200-year-old barn radiates rustic charm and has plenty of space for dancing and entertaining. There’s also a Milking Parlour, which can be used as the groom’s quarters or for the bride and bridesmaids to get ready before the vows. www.marcelgphotography.com https://hanavenn.co.uk fionamillsart.com 16
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