Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding - Apr/May 2019 (Issue 70)

THEMED VENUES 35 MIDELNEY MANOR 01458 252 377 | midelneymanor.co.uk WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? This Elizabethan manor house is set in 17 th -century walled gardens, which house the wonderfully quirky Potting Shed barn venue. At the bottom of the garden lies the pretty Washam Woods. Arriving at the house, guests enter the hall, where they’re surrounded by old family portraits, flagstone floors, Persian rugs and a baby grand piano. Glass of champagne in hand, they’ll head into the grounds and then on to the Potting Shed, with its exposed brick walls and oak beams. Filled with bohemian elegance, it has a bar at one end and boasts eclectic furniture, rugs, festoon lighting, Chesterfield sofas and old pictures. LET’S CELEBRATE! Smaller ceremonies of up to 20 people take place in the Van Wyk Room, which is a beautiful panelled drawing room in the main house. Larger gatherings of up to 110 people head to the Potting Shed, with its red-brick walls and exposed beams. Washam Woods is the perfect spot for a magical woodland blessing. In the Round Garden, a marquee, tipi or yurt can be set up for post-vow parties for up to 150 loved ones. The versatile Potting Shed can be used as an alternative reception area if the weather prohibits the use of the gardens. With its bar lounge, it’s ideal for those wanting to relax and chat. Couples are invited for a wine tasting at the manor in order to select their big-day beverages. William Goddard Photography ST AUDRIES PARK 01984 633 633 | audries-park.co.uk WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? Spanning more than 100 acres in the rolling Quantock Hills, the St Audries Park estate boasts an elevated position with fabulous coastal views. The deer park and lake are serene settings, and the immaculate grounds feature neatly striped grass and a manicured croquet lawn. The building provides an imposing backdrop for weddings, with towers, turrets, huge stained-glass windows and its Victorian-style Orangery. Inside, there are endless period features to enjoy in splendid surroundings. LET’S CELEBRATE! All couples have exclusive use of the house and grounds for their special day. Vows are taken with up to 130 loved ones in The Orangery before making use of the many grand and elegant reception rooms. The Great Hall’s vaulted ceiling, minstrels’ gallery and roaring log fire make for an impressive welcome. The Drawing Room, with its hand-painted ceiling and wall of windows, is another favourite. For fine dining with a view, couples will love The Banqueting Hall, which overlooks the deer park and rose garden. Up to 40 guests can stay the night before the wedding with an informal gathering at Peregrine House. Attendees will be glad to know there’s accommodation for 100 people on the wedding night. facebook.com/keanudrone1 bensimmondsphotography.co.uk