Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding - May/June 2019 (Issue 74)

RNLI College, Poole 01202 662 261 | rnli.org/college This waterside venue is a bright contemporary space situated on the edge of Poole Harbour with views over Holes Bay. You can host your whole day here, from the ‘I dos’ to the evening party and you don’t have to go far at the end of the night either. With 60 double bedrooms available, all with sea views, you can enjoy a weekend- long celebration. There’s a range of attractive spaces for weddings large or small. The Harbour View Suite provides a romantic intimate setting with panoramic sea views, while the Waterfront Suite is ideal for larger affairs. Perfect for drinks and photos, it has direct access to the waterfront terrace bordering the harbour where the iconic RNLI Lifeboats are moored on the pontoons. The suite can accommodate up to 200 guests for the ceremony, 150 for the wedding breakfast and a maximum of 200 for the evening reception. It comes with its own private staffed bar and a dancefloor can be included free of charge so you can party the night away. We love... that every £1 spent here goes towards saving lives at sea. The Lord Bute, Christchurch 01425 278 884 | lordbute.com Framed under a canopy of trees, this boutique hotel sits in the original grounds of Highcliffe Castle and its 18 th -century entrance lodges now form part of the venue’s grand exterior. Nestled between the New Forest and the glorious Dorset coast, the sandy beaches and dramatic clifftops on the doorstep are perfect for romantic photos post-vows. Most ceremonies are held in the main restaurant, which can accommodate 120 people comfortably. Complete with conservatory the versatile space can be adapted to suit the size and style of your big day. For larger celebrations, a marquee can be set up adjoining the restaurant and for intimate al fresco weddings, you can tie the knot under the outdoor gazebo joined by around 50 guests in the spacious courtyard. Renowned for top-notch food, with two AA Rosettes and a Michelin recommendation, you can have your own bespoke menu. We love... the spacious Garden Suite with its own private outdoor space; ideal for intimate ceremonies or a romantic wedding night stay. Swanage Pier 01929 509 900 | bluebayevents.co.uk If a local treasure by the sea is your cup of tea, Swanage Pier is a must-see! Built in 1895, it’s been lovingly restored over recent years and is a Grade II listed building. A living piece of Swanage history, it’s a quirky and original setting for a big day with a difference. Situated on top of Swanage Bay you can host your whole day here with up to 120 guests. The licensed pagoda at the end of the pier is built into the marquee space so all your family and friends can watch you say ‘I do’ followed by a reception afterwards. There’s also space on the decking outside the marquee to enjoy the spectacular sea views and relax to the sound of lapping waves. Did you know? The historic landmark was named Pier of the Year in 2012. WATERSIDE VENUES 33