Your East Anglian Wedding - April/May 2020 (Issue 42)

Heacham Manor Hotel, Heacham 01485 536 030 | heacham-manor.co.uk If you’re dreaming of a quintessentially English country house wedding, Heacham Manor Hotel is a must-see. Built from the region’s earthy carrstone bricks in 1580, it oozes history and charm with period features inside and out. From the moment you arrive down the pretty driveway to catch your first glimpse of the gardens and picturesque duck pond, the magic begins. With two rivers winding through the parkland golf course, and four lakes, it’s a photographer’s dream. The peaceful grounds include gardens with romantic arbours, ponds and hidden seating areas. What’s more, it’s only a mile-and-a-half away from the Victorian seaside town of Hunstanton; great if you’re planning to stay over to explore the surrounding coast and countryside. The Grade II listed manor house has all the hallmarks you’d expect of a period property with classically luxurious interiors. There’s a range of licensed spaces for ceremonies including the large bright conservatory, big enough for 120 guests and the drawing room with its open fireplace; great for cosy intimate weddings. Celebrate afterwards in any of the main public areas as the manor is available on a sole-use basis so it can be exclusively yours for the day. If you’re looking to extend the celebration, there’s a total of 45 bedrooms too, including the sumptuous Manor Suite and 32 more modern-style bedrooms in the adjacent cottages. The venue can host 100 seated guests for the wedding and 125 for the reception. What’s more, it will be able to cater for larger celebrations soon as a new function room is currently being built. We love... the historic mulberry tree in the grounds. More than 400 years old, it still bears fruit and according to legend was planted by Pocahontas during a visit to Heacham with her husband John Rolfe. danbiggins.com Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich 01473 433 554 | venuesipswich.co.uk/weddings- christchurch-mansion This iconic Ipswich landmark can’t fail to impress. The mansion is a Tudor gem, with standout features at every twist and turn, so be prepared for plenty of stop-stare moments. Step inside and enter the Great Hall, a magnificent high-ceilinged room with a black and white chequered marble floor and an ornate fireplace. Numerous other period rooms and furniture as well as a large fine art collection add to its charm. The building has been altered over the years with classical columns and balustrade added in the 17 th century. The picturesque grounds offer a wealth of photo opportunities, with lawns, ponds and scenic woodland. The Lower Tudor Room, with its ornate fireplace, richly carved mantelpiece and wood panelling, provides an intimate setting for ceremonies with up to 45 people. Celebrate afterwards in The Great Hall, a striking focal point at the heart of the mansion; perfect for a seated or buffet-style reception. Combined with hire of the China Room, Victorian Kitchen and outdoor seating area, there’s plenty of space to eat, drink and be merry with up to 150 of your family and friends. We love... the stunning setting in Christchurch Park; the first public park to be opened in Ipswich, back in 1895. 22