Your East Anglian Wedding - Aug/Sep 2019 (Issue 38)

The Old Rectory Hotel, Crostwick 01603 738 513 | oldrectorycrostwick.com There’s more to this venue than you might guess at first glance. Dating back to the 18 th century, the original Old Rectory at the front of the site makes an instant first impression. Venture around the white rendered building to discover the hidden gems beyond, including the more recently added restaurant, reception entrance, ground floor hotel rooms and gardens, complete with patio seating and an outdoor swimming pool. The grounds are well kept with colourful flowerbeds, hanging baskets and special features including a fountain, dovecote and even a quirky African stone head. The tree outside reception looks magical lit up with twinkling fairylights at night; great for evening photos. You can say ‘I do’ in the Conservatory Restaurant with 110 seated guests and celebrate afterwards with a reception for 150 loved ones. The octagonal-shaped room has a high vaulted ceiling, giving it a light and airy feel, a central dancefloor and adjoining bar. With direct access to the gardens you can make the most of the outside spaces for photos and drinks. For more intimate weddings the Victoriana Suite can accommodate up to 60 people and has a low-beamed ceiling and includes an adjoining lounge area. We love... the garden pergola framed with flowers and foliage for romantic just-wed shots. ajfeatherphotography.com Mannington Gardens, Norwich 01263 584 175 | manningtongardens.co.uk This hidden gem is located in an idyllic spot 20 miles north of Norwich and eight miles from the coast, nestled in beautiful rural surroundings. The gardens and moat provide a picture-picture setting with the impressive Medieval hall in the background. The hall is still a family home today and, although you can’t marry here, there’s plenty of space in the grounds for a magical marquee reception or you can hire the tearooms for a more intimate celebration. We love... the moat and wonderful natural surroundings. 26