Your Herts and Beds Wedding - February / March 2021 (Issue 84)

Established in 1623, Rothamsted Manor is an impressive Grade I listed manor house set in 12 acres of beautiful gardens surrounded by woodland. The manor’s exterior offers impressive historical features: stained-glass family crests in the windows, a clock tower and curved gables. The venue sits in the vast grounds of Rothamsted Research, the world’s oldest agricultural research institute; home to some of the world’s oldest science experiments. The Great Drawing Room was added to the manor by Sir John Lawes in 1863 and features a fireplace dating from the early 1900s, original portraits dating back to the 1500s as well as wood panelling. This is the largest space available for ceremonies of up to 115 guests, 76 for a seated wedding breakfast, or up to 120 for a standing buffet or drinks reception. Other ceremony spaces include The Library for 55 people which can be transformed into a reception space for 44 seated guests or 76 standing; or say ‘I do’ in The Lounge which seats 75 loved ones for the ceremony, 50 seated and 90 standing for a reception. The Lounge walls are panelled, with extensive, rarely seen murals on the east wall. Alternatively, why not opt for The Orangery, a beautiful space with lots of natural light and large arched windows with views over the gardens? Historically known as the Loggia, it features a wonderful marble and limestone chequerboard floor that lends itself perfectly as a bar area or drinks reception room. On a fine day, guests can spill out onto the outside veranda area to enjoy drinks and appreciate the wonderful gardens and grounds. One of the smallest rooms in the manor is the Spanish Leather Room, ideal for more intimate gatherings. It can also be used as a room to meet with the registrar before the wedding ceremony. Any event held at Rothamsted Manor will wow any guests and support the amazing agricultural research that takes place on the estate. We love… The venue can be hired exclusively if a couple wishes to do so, and a free tasting session is offered prior to the wedding. ROTHAMSTED MANOR 01582 938 500 | www.rothamstedenterprises.com/rothamsted-manor GOING local Where to say ‘I do’ in west Herts www.me achenandshorey.com www.me achenandshorey.com LOCAL VENUES 19