Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - November/December 2020 (Issue 83)

THE CONNAUGHT HOTEL AND SPA, BOURNEMOUTH 01202 298 020 | www.theconnaught.co.uk If you’re looking for toes-in-the-sand just-wed shots, this seaside venue is only a five-minute walk from the beach. Located on Bournemouth’s West Cliff, the four-star luxury boutique hotel is ideal if you’re planning a weekend-long celebration – and why wouldn’t you with everything you need right on the doorstep. There’s plenty of accommodation, not to mention a fully equipped gym and indulgent spa with an 18m swimming pool, free to use for anyone staying over. The town’s just a short stroll away too. The 19 th -century building combines charm and character with modern luxury, from the contemporary reception area to the ‘London- look’ brasserie and intimate Gin Bar. Licensed for ceremonies indoors and out, the hotel can host weddings with up to 130 guests and offers a range of attractive settings from the bright and modern Connaught Suite overlooking the terrace garden to the Franklyn suite, a more neutral space; ideal for those looking to add their own personal stamp. The Courtyard Garden is a hidden gem; the perfect backdrop for al fresco ceremonies with up to 70 loved ones. Alternatively, Blake’s Restaurant, with its glistening chandeliers, is ideal for more intimate weddings. We love… the blue beach hut nestled between two palm trees in the grounds, great for those all-important photos ALEXANDRA HOTEL AND RESTAURANT, LYME REGIS 01297 442 010 | www.hotelalexandra.co.uk This charming venue offers bags of old world charm with a healthy dose of stylish coastal chic thrown in – the perfect recipe for a big day to remember. The Georgian dower house was originally built in 1735 for the Countess Dowager Poulett as her seaside home. Set in a prime hillside position with breathtaking sea views, it boasts expansive lawns and a cobbled courtyard. It even has its own private 18 th -century chapel, perfect for romantic ‘I dos’ with up to 60 loved ones. With an impressive barrel ceiling and original features the chapel looks magical in flickering candlelight. Set in the popular seaside town of Lyme Regis there’s a path that leads straight to the beach, popular with couples looking to steal away for photos on the famous Cobb harbour wall. The hotel offers a choice of licensed indoor wedding spaces too, including The Orangery with wide sea-facing doors leading down to the lawns. For larger celebrations, the Alexandra Dining Room provides an elegant ballroom experience and can seat up to 70 family and friends for the reception or 100 for a finger buffet. We love… the garden lookout tower with sea views over the harbour, a one-of-kind setting for an intimate ceremony with up to 10 people. 26