Your East Anglian Wedding - Apr/May 2019 (Issue 36)

Caley Hall Hotel, Old Hunstanton 01485 533 486 | caleyhallhotel.co.uk This family-run hotel is a must-see for couples on the hunt for a coastal venue with history and charm. Just a short stroll away from the beach, the ivy-clad manor house dates back to 1648 and provides a beautiful backdrop for those all-important photos. The original stables and outbuildings have been converted providing 38 chalet-style bedrooms, what’s more if you book them all exclusively for your wedding guests, the venue hire is free. The sun terrace is the ideal spot for arrival drinks when the weather’s fine or in the chilly months the lounge provides an enticing space for mulled wine by the fire. Ceremonies for up to 40 people can be held in the Old Barn, an intimate, romantic space full of character with its original oak-beamed ceiling and fairylights. For those with a bigger guest list the light and airy ceremony room has a relaxed country feel and caters for your whole day including up to 80 day guests and a further 50 for the evening do. The venue prides itself on providing a warm and welcoming atmosphere and it’s dog friendly so your pet pooch can be part of your big day too. We love... the coastal setting. Old Hunstanton beach is only a short walk away; perfect for romantic just-wed shots among the colourful beach huts and sand dunes. Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich 01473 433 554 | venuesipswich.co.uk With its striking Tudor frontage, this landmark venue is sure to make a lasting impression on your guests. Boasting 500 years of history and bags of character it has an array of ornate and original features and numerous period rooms, not to mention a large fine art collection including works by renowned Suffolk artists John Constable and Thomas Gainsborough. The setting is pretty amazing too, surrounded by acres of lush lawns, scenic wooded areas and an arboretum. Christchurch Park, complete with its own bandstand, provides plenty of standout photo opportunities as well. The building itself has been altered over the years, with classical columns and balustrade added during the 17 th century. The resulting mansion is an eye-catching focal point as you enter the park. Ceremonies are held in the atmospheric Lower Tudor Room, which can host up to 45 guests. The Great Hall, at the heart of the mansion, provides a wow-factor focal point for the wedding breakfast and after the formalities you can take to the black and white marble floor to relax and enjoy the evening reception with up to 150 of your nearest and dearest. With the China Room, the Victorian Kitchen and an outside seating area, there’s more than enough space to dance, eat and have fun. We love... the ornate panelling and fireplace in the Lower Tudor Room; a one-of-a-kind backdrop for your ‘I dos’. 24