Your Devon and Cornwall Wedding - May/June 2020 (Issue 25)

DEER’S LEAP RETREAT, SOUTH MOLTON, DEVON This idyllic country venue, set in its own secluded valley, offers far-reaching views across pastoral fields and hills. The converted barn, nestled in the garden next to the all-season tennis court framed by pretty flower borders that doubles as a platform for marquees and outdoor parties, features bare stone walls inside and out, and oozes rustic charm. It also has its own patio complete with fire heaters, outdoor festoon lighting, tables ideal for seating groups of guests and comfortable seating. The homely farmhouse is more than 900-years old and combines a timeless ambience with comfort and modern luxuries, like the twin hot tubs and sauna. The three reception rooms and nine bedrooms revealing low beams, wonky doors and inglenook fireplaces, house close family members and the venue specialises in exclusive weekend and overnight weddings. Couples will have use of the Honeymoon Suite in Hartford Cottage for the duration of their wedding stay. Ceremonies can be held in four locations, including outside at The Lakeside Gazebo for up to 150 guests. This rustic wooden structure has been constructed using timber from the grounds and sits under a canopy of trees next to the lake, offering unrivalled views. The Stone Barn is also licensed for up to 150 guests and is home to wooden beams, two large iron cartwheels as chandeliers, a stone floor, and a log burner for warmth. The barn offers plenty of natural daylight thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows. There’s also the option of saying ‘I do’ in the Farmhouse Dining Room for a smaller gathering of up to 55 loved ones, and in the Farmhouse Lounge for up to 50 guests. Receptions take place in a selection of areas including in a marquee on the lawn for between 75 to 150 people seated. Couples are free to choose their marquee supplier giving them flexibility and control over their budget, and past weddings have enjoyed glass-roof structures. A stretch canvas structure by the lake can hold between 75 and 100 guests for a rustic buffet or Argentinian barbecue, with guests seated on hay bales or chairs. Tipis, Bedouin tents and festival big tops can also be erected at this spot. The Stone Barn seats up to 125 guests theatre or cabaret-style, while The Farmhouse entertains a more intimate gathering of between 25 to 55 guests. Alternatively, guests can enjoy a picnic by the lake sitting on ornate rugs or tartan picnic blankets and the sunsets here are the cherry on the cake. This family-run venue can provide a babysitting service, so parents can relax, and more mature members of the family can retreat to the farmhouse for some quiet time. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01398 341 407, www.deersleapretreat.co.uk www.facebook.com/deersleapretreat ❤ We love… that the catering can be tailored to each couple’s requirements, with good local and national supplier recommendations and the option of self-catering. SCORRIER HOUSE, REDRUTH, CORNWALL This family-owned ancient country house is situated in four hundred acres of private parkland and historic gardens deep in the heart of Cornwall, providing a mystical setting for exclusive-use weddings, ensuring privacy. A magnificent sweeping driveway and double staircase, that looks fantastic dressed with flowers under a string of fairylights, provide great photo opportunities. Ceremonies take place in The Grand Hall, home to this staircase, for up to 120 guests, or, if the weather allows, in the outdoor gazebo located in the pool garden opposite the botanic conservatory. Two other ceremony alternatives are the light-filled conservatory and elegant Drawing Room. The wedding breakfast takes place in The Grand Hall for up to 120 loved ones seated, and the reception can also take place here, or in a marquee that can be added with direct access to the house. The Drawing Room is ideal for dancing, and the Blue Library is home to a wood burner and provides the perfect spot for guests to recline in. Ceremony licence? Yes Contact: 01209 820 264, www.scorrierhouse.co.uk www.instagram.com/scorrierhouse ❤ We love… the extensive list of recommended local wedding suppliers that range from a three-piece orchestra to a kitsch ice cream van for hire. Accommodation is provided on-site for up to 20 friends and family in the beautifully converted Stable House, along with rooms inside the main house, and there’s plenty of great hotel and bed and breakfast options in the area with the estate being close to Truro, Redruth and Falmouth. Photography of Deer’s Leap Retreat courtesy of www.mattwillisphotography.com 26