Your Hampshire & Dorset Wedding - Nov/Dec 2019 (Issue 77)

REGIONAL VENUES 15 Where to wed in South Dorset  GOING LOCAL PENNSYLVANIA CASTLE, PORTLAND 01305 820 918 | thepennestate.co.uk Be king and queen for the day at this fairytale venue. Set on the cliffs of Dorset’s dramatic coastline, Pennsylvania Castle is an exclusive wedding venue full of grandeur. Beautifully restored, the castle is steeped in history with modern and elegant interiors and a wealth of licensed ceremony rooms. Take your pick from the library, conservatory, drawing or dining room and you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to dine too. During July and August, the indoor swimming pool is covered and transformed into a sea-facing orangery-style banqueting area for up to 100 people. For larger numbers, a marquee can be sited on the Penn’s own helipad. The stunning estate has inspired writers and hosted royalty for more than two centuries. With several individually themed areas in the grounds, including beautiful Italian and romantic English rose gardens, sweeping manicured lawns and places for marquees and al fresco dining, it’s a photographer’s dream. Follow the private pathway down to the Penn’s waterfall and Japanese-style tea house, complete with tropical garden, to discover the wedding pagoda, a magical spot for outdoor ceremonies. We love... that if you’re jetting off on honeymoon at the end of the night, a helicopter can be arranged to whisk you off to the airport. WILKSWOOD, ISLE OF PURBECK 01202 533 014 | wilkswood.co.uk If breathtaking views are top of your wish list, this chilled wedding venue could be just what you’re looking for. Overlooking the rolling Purbeck hills, the bright and seamless clear span marquee allows you to make the most of the panoramic vistas. Complete with pleated ivory linings, a stage for the evening entertainment, a solid wooden dancefloor, chandelier lighting and more you can celebrate with up to 350 guests. There’s plenty of space for al fresco drinks and outdoor games with street food and catering trucks for the evening celebration and at the end of the night, you can glamp out under the stars. Although the venue’s not licensed for ceremonies, it’s the perfect spot for an outdoor blessing. We love... that the happy couple can glamp out under the stars in a complimentary bell tent fully kitted out for the wedding night. thurtlepower.com robingoodlad.com