An Essex Wedding - July/August 2020 (Issue 93)

19 COLCHESTER CASTLE 01206 506 905 | www.colchester-events.co.uk What can you expect? Located at the entrance of Castle Park, Colchester Castle is steeped in thousands of years of history. Set in the heart of the town, and surrounded by manicured lawns and gardens, it’s an idyllic backdrop for weddings. Crossing the grand drawbridge into the venue, guests enter the Norman castle, which dates back to the 11 th century. The keep is mostly intact and is the largest of its kind in Europe. Inside, hundreds of artefacts dating back to the Romans provide unique entertainment for guests. Let’s celebrate! Weddings take place across all areas of the castle, giving parties the opportunity to explore this captivating setting. Ceremonies are held in The Chapel (80 guests) with its romantic vaulted ceilings and stained-glass windows, or couples can climb the spiral staircase to The Secret Chapel (36 guests), which is a rustic and natural space on the roof. The most popular area for wedding breakfasts is the Charles Gray Room. An elegant space, it overlooks the public gallery. During the meal, The Chapel is transformed into a party space for 130 revellers with its excellent acoustics and white walls perfect for a light show. We love… Operating as a museum on a daily basis, couples can share their day with artefacts and exhibitions. After dark, the museum becomes exclusively theirs.  COLCHESTER TOWN HALL 01206 506 905 | www.colchester-events.co.uk What can you expect? A Victorian building completed in 1845, Colchester Town Hall is based on the High Street in the heart of the town, with Castle Park close by for beautiful photographs. A prestigious building rich in history, the impressive facade conceals a hidden gem. The magnificent function rooms are all decorated in an opulent style with ornate and original features, such as satined-glass windows, oil paintings and murals. Let’s celebrate! There are many stunning spaces for weddings. The Council Chamber (70 guests) is ideal for ceremonies with its impressive windows and wooden pew-style seating giving a church- like feel. The Moot Hall is the biggest space (300 ceremony guests and 200 reception guests), and is blessed with high ornate ceilings and abundant natural light pouring though the stained-glass windows that depict Colchester’s history. The Mayoral Suite is a more intimate setting (100 ceremony guests and 70 reception guests), which allows couples to celebrate among the mayor’s regalia and use the impressive marble fireplace as a photo backdrop. We love… The mayor’s balcony is a memorable spot for couple’s portraits. COLCHESTER Spotlight on … LOCAL VENUES