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

Osborne, East Cowes 01983 203 055 | english-heritage.org.uk/osborneweddings Be king and queen for the day at this palatial venue by the sea. Recently repainted in Osborne yellow, it was originally built as a family home for Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, it provides a stunning regal setting for a wow-factor big day. With all the elements of a grand Italian house, striking features include impressive towers, flower-framed terraces, connected by flights of steps and fabulous views. From the ornate Victoria fountains to the picturesque walled garden, it’s a photographer’s dream. It even has its own secluded private beach; perfect for romantic just-wed shots. You can say ‘I do’ in the pretty alcove, where Queen Victoria used to sketch and write, joined by up to 60 seated guests and a further 30 standing. Toast your new married status afterwards with champagne and canapés on the beach and enjoy a sumptuous wedding breakfast in a marquee with panoramic views across the Solent as your backdrop. The lower terraces also provide a picture- perfect location for al fresco weddings or you can tie the knot in the walled garden. The indoor spaces are equally breathtaking, a treasure trove of lavishly decorated rooms and suites. The largest, the ornately decorated Durbar Room was originally a state banqueting hall and can host up to 74 loved ones for the wedding breakfast or if you’re inviting a crowd, a marquee can be put up on the lawn. Alternatively the Duchess of Kent Suite provides interlinked rooms with spectacular views looking out over the terraces and down to the Solent. Used in conjunction with the Victoria Hall and Orangery, it’s ideal for more intimate weddings. We love.. the Victoria Hall, once Queen Victoria’s private chapel featuring beautifully arched stained-glass windows overlooking the garden terraces, it’s perfect for a romantic ceremony. Nothe Fort, Weymouth 01305 766 626 | nothefort.org.uk If you’re on the hunt for something out of the ordinary for your big day, this is it. Weymouth’s historic Nothe Fort on the Jurassic coast is perched on a promontory overlooking the sea. Built by the Victorians to protect Portland Harbour, it’s steeped in history and is one of the best preserved forts of its kind. The setting and photo opportunities are second to none with 360° panoramic views of the bay and harbour. Built on three levels it’s surrounded by the beautiful Nothe Gardens full of trees, shrubs and winding paths. Licensed for weddings you can marry in the Engine Room with up to 80 guests. For more intimate gatherings there are a host of quirky spaces for your ’I dos’ including the Gun Deck, Lookout and the Search Light which can accommodate up to six people with 50 more seated on the terrace. After tying the knot, head off to the Fort View Cafe to celebrate or if you’ve invited a crowd, you can host a marquee reception on the Parade Ground with 250 family and friends. The Fort Artillery will even perform a special firing of the canon in your honour. We love... that ghost tours are available, if you dare! NO ORDINARY AFFAIR Quirky and distinctive venues from around the region UNUSUAL VENUES 23