Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - July/August 2020 (Issue 81)

ROWNHAMS HOUSE & GARDENS, ROWNHAMS 02380 733 298 | www.rownhamshouse.com Surrounded by 12 acres of gardens and woodland, complete with its own lake and ice house, Rownhams House is an idyllic setting for a magical big day. The lawn is ideal for al fresco drinks receptions and garden games post-vows There’s also a rustic outdoor bar and plenty of seating too. The beautiful Georgian house oozes romance and character and is licensed for ceremonies. You can marry inside with up to 120 people in the Grand Library, an impressive space with ornate plastered ceilings and large sash windows allowing the natural light to flood in. For more intimate weddings, the decorative Billiard Room is the cosiest room in the house. Big enough for up to 50 family and friends, the green coloured walls reflect the wonderful garden views. You can also marry outside under the Coach House arch, in the woods or by the the lake, surrounded by trees. Wedding breakfasts are usually served in the Grand Library with the evening celebration in the Coach House joined by up to 150 loved ones. With a spacious main entrance hall for the evening food, a reception room for catching up with family and friends and a separate dancefloor, there’s also a quirky dedicated bar area in the adjoining Knights Hall. Did you know? The large manor house was built by Sir Isaac Newton’s nephew in 1762. THE ELVETHAM, HARTLEY WINTNEY 01252 847 225 | www.elvethamhotel.co.uk If you’re looking for wedding wow factor, The Elvetham is hard to beat. A wonderful example of Victorian architecture, the impressive building is set within 35 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens surrounded by the vast family-owned estate in the heart of the Hampshire countryside. A picture-perfect location for a stylish big day, the venue oozes history and charm and caters for weddings large or small. Full of original features, it’s a photographer’s dream with fireplaces, stained-glass windows, oak-panelled walls and a spectacular staircase – great for romantic just-wed shots. Licensed for weddings indoors and out, it’s a year-round winner and can accommodate up to 200 guests to watch you say ‘I do’ in the grand surroundings of the Library. Adorned with classical art and bookcases lining the walls, it’s the largest and one of the finest rooms in the house. With an ornate stone fireplace and beamed ceilings it provides an atmospheric setting for the ceremony and wedding breakfast. For those looking to make the most of the outdoor setting, the secluded Summerhouse is a picturesque spot to tie the knot joined by 120 loved ones. Celebrate afterwards in the bright and beautiful Conservatory and enjoy panoramic views of the gardens and rolling countryside. Full of natural light during the day, the ceiling can be festooned with fairylights for a magical evening celebration. For more lavish affairs, you can host a marquee reception for as many as 600 guests. What’s more there are 72 elegant bedrooms for family and friends wanting to stay over and make the most of the celebration. Did you know? Queen Elizabeth I visited the house in 1591 and during her stay planted an oak tree that still stands today. www.lilyb eanphotography.co.uk www.idea limaging.uk.com REGIONAL VENUES 27