Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - Page number 20 - May/June 2021 (Issue 86)

RHINEFIELD HOUSE HOTEL, BROCKENHURST 01590 622 922 www.handpickedhotels.co.uk/rhinefield-house/weddings Set in the heart of the New Forest National Park, this historic venue provides a fairytale romantic backdrop for weddings. Your guests are sure to be impressed as they make their way down the long driveway, lined with Canadian redwood and copper beech trees, to catch their first glimpse of the impressive 19 th -century Tudor and Gothic country mansion with its red-brick chimneys and leaded windows. Surrounded by 40 acres of private grounds, including two ornamental ponds and a maze, there’s no shortage of amazing photo opportunities. The interior is just as striking as the grand exterior with a wealth of rooms and spaces suitable for weddings large or small. The Keepers Room, with its ornamental fireplace and large bay windows, is ideal for relaxed intimate weddings while Hurst Castle is the venue’s largest private wedding space. The fully, self-contained modern suite has its own entrance and facilities as well as an outdoor terrace overlooking the topiary orchard and can host up to 100 loved ones for the ceremony, 120 for the wedding breakfast and an extra 30 for the evening celebrations. For a truly lavish affair, the Grand Hall provides a wow-factor setting that’s hard to beat. A replica of London’s Westminster Hall, complete with intricate carvings, oak panelling and striking windows, it provides a stunning backdrop for your whole day with space for as many as 200 loved ones for the evening reception. We love… the magical Forest Garden, complete with Doric temple where you can tie the knot surrounded by 130 seated guests. THE MORTIMER ARMS, OWER 02380 814 379 | www.mortimerarms.co.uk If you’re on the hunt for a chilled setting with an authentic country feel for your celebration, this welcoming reception venue could be just what you’re looking for. The former Edwardian dowager house has been beautifully converted to a chic boutique hotel while retaining a wealth of charm. Set on the edge of the New Forest, the décor is sympathetic to the rural area with pictures and paraphernalia to reflect the local countryside. The building’s original high ceilings, large sash windows and patios add character and give the interior a bright airy feel. The outside spaces include a large lawn, front patio and garden with hanging baskets and flower beds. There’s also a stunning private courtyard with seating, trellising and a central olive tree, perfect for al fresco dining. The country-style function room can host wedding breakfasts for up to 80 guests and a further 40 for the reception. With space for a dancefloor, band or DJ and patio doors leading out to the courtyard, it’s the perfect place to celebrate. We love… that the bride and groom get the best room in the house for the wedding night complete with a complimentary bottle of fizz. www.lem ontree-photography.co.uk 20