Your Bristol & Somerset Wedding - Dec/Jan 2019 (Issue 74)

BRUNEL’S SS GREAT BRITAIN 0117 926 0680 | ssgreatbritain.org WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? Set in the city’s historic dockyard, the SS Great Britain cuts a striking image in Bristol’s harbour. Located a short reach from the city centre, couples can arrive by boat for their special day and enjoy stunning views across the city. The ship, which was launched in 1843, has been restored to its former glory, with gold trim and celebratory signal flags depicting the grandeur of her launch. As the world’s first great ocean liner, the interior reflects the luxury of first-class travel. LET’S CELEBRATE! Ceremonies can be held on the Promenade Deck (120 guests), an airy space flooded with natural light, pillars and mirrors, with couples making their grand entrance down the impressive 30-metre aisle. Alternatively, Rigger’s Yard (50 guests) is a rustic-style al fresco space for nuptials overlooking the water’s edge, with Bristol’s colourful skyline as the backdrop. Following the vows, couples can choose from two spaces for their reception surrounded by up to 200 loved ones. The First Class Dining Saloon boasts the finest Victorian décor, with marble-effect pillars and banquet-style seating. The Hayward Saloon is a great party space, with a bar and dancing area ready to be decorated to the couple’s liking. WE LOVE… Guests can explore the inner workings of the historic ship, including the engine room, living area and steerage. They can also treat their loved ones to a cruise around the harbor before returning for the evening celebrations. rebeccaroundhill.co.uk TRACY PARK HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB 0117 937 1800 | tracypark.co.uk WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT? On the outskirts of Bath, in the heart of 240 acres of lake-dotted parkland and two championship golf courses, is this Grade II listed stately home. The hotel provides a stunning setting for big-day celebrations with its contemporary reception elegantly entwined with the individually designed 19 th -century accommodation blocks and Grade II listed manor house. The superior converted stables were inspiration for Anna Sewell’s book Black Beauty . The eclectic interiors consist of black-and-white photography, paintings of historic local places and life-size animal carvings. Each room provides a different feel, from the lounge-style Drawing Room to the atmospheric restaurant. LET’S CELEBRATE! Couples can choose from three spaces for their ceremony. Masons Restaurant (80 guests) is a former Masonic ceremony room. The Fleet Room (30 guests) is an intimate space, while bigger parties should consider the main function space, The Windsor Room (120 guests). This room also hosts the reception. With its neutral décor and private bar, it’s the ideal party place for up to 150 revellers. WE LOVE… Newlyweds receive a complimentary four-poster bedroom for their wedding night, and guests will be happy to know there are plenty of places to stay on-site. LOCAL VENUES 19