Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding - Sep/Oct 2019 (Issue 76)

D riving through the country lanes of Dorset, it quickly feels like you’ve escaped the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With work, kids, and just general life getting in the way of spending time with loved ones, I was excited to be adventuring with family for the weekend! After enjoying an afternoon at National Trust property Kingston Lacy, we were fully relaxed and eager to head to our accommodation in Sturminster Marshall. When approaching the village, you go over White Mill Bridge, dating from the 16 th century it’s the oldest bridge in Dorset and is worth a walk too from The Village Vestry! Standing proudly in the centre of the village, the chapel takes pride of place overlooking the village green featuring a traditional maypole. Built in 1876, history buffs will be in awe of the significant presence it held in the local community. The chapel’s charming façade boasts many features either original or that have been sympathetically restored such as the enchanting arched windows – which sets this property apart from typical mini-moon or pre-wedding getaway accommodations. Inside, the chapel certainly has the wow-factor for staying guests and is a contender for a Grand Designs accolade! Its contemporary interior and furnishings seamlessly blend the old and the new and provides the perfect holiday home. The large open-plan kitchen and dining area overlook a pretty landscaped garden which was a pleasure to relax in with a morning cuppa, so quiet and peaceful it was a tranquil haven. The well-fitted modern kitchen with microwave, DAB radio, kettle and toaster, Rangemaster cooker, full-size dishwasher and American fridge/freezer meant we happily ate at home the first night – sharing food and wine in such a lovely setting in the formal dining area with chandelier, you can easily imagine a pre- or post-wedding celebration! Mum had the master suite, and if she could choose her dream home this would be it – she wanted to move in. Sophisticated and stylish the decor is neutral with all home comforts thought of. Both the master and the twin room had comfortable beds, en suite bathrooms, TVs and dressing tables; while the underfloor heating throughout the property makes it the ideal location all year round! On the mezzanine floor is an impressive galleried sitting room with exposed timbers and vaulted ceiling, it offers views through a striking Gothic arched window to the village green beyond – it also boasts a sofa bed for two! The three comfy large sofas with 47-inch TV with Freeview and DVD player were a welcome retreat for the end of the evening. Perfectly located to explore the beautiful Jurassic Coast and Dorset countryside, the next day we explored what we could on our doorstep. Durdle Door is a must-visit, a renowned picturesque spot on the coast; Lulworth Cove was tranquil and idyllic we easily whiled away a couple of hours in the sunshine here, and we were in awe of Lulworth Castle. We were blessed with wonderful weather to enjoy what was nearby, however, should the weather not be onside, the divine converted chapel will still provide the perfect retreat – there’s also a shop and two village pubs The Red Lion and The Golden Fox within walking distance. Danielle Harvey ventures to Dorset for a weekend at The Village Vestry BOOK IT! The Village Vestry, mulberrycottages.com   128