Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - Page number 23 - July/August 2021 (Issue 87)

LORD BUTE, CHRISTCHURCH 01425 278 884 | www.lordbute.com Framed under a canopy of trees, the Lord Bute is set within the original grounds of Highcliffe Castle. In keeping with the venue’s history the majestic 18 th -century entrance lodges now form part of the venue’s grand exterior, providing wonderfully impressive bridal suites. Imposing white pillars and archways add to a great first impression. Step inside and discover boutique interiors ranging from the conservatory with its rustic arch windows to the dramatic Art Deco dining room boasting bold chandeliers. There’s 13 gorgeous bedrooms and suites for your wedding guests too and you can even have exclusive use of the whole place for a truly private wedding. Nestled between the New Forest and the spectacular Dorset coast, sandy beaches and striking clifftops are only a stone’s throw away for spectacular album-worthy photos. The Garden Suite offers its own private landscaped garden, complete with palms and an elegant water feature. Most ceremonies take place in the versatile and spacious main restaurant where receptions are also held. There’s room for up to 120 people, it can be adapted to suit the style of your celebration and if you want more space, a marquee can also be set up adjoining the restaurant. For intimate ‘I dos’, the Garden Suite is big enough for up to 25 guests inside or more using the outside space too. Further options for ceremonies include a romantic outdoor gazebo in the spacious outdoor courtyard. WE LOVE… that it’s a bit of foodie heaven too. Renowned for its culinary excellence, with two AA Rosettes and a Michelin recommendation, there’s no pre-ordering required and you can work with the venue’s master chefs to create your own bespoke menu. RNLI COLLEGE, POOLE 01202 662 261 | www.rnli.org/college The RNLI College is a light bright modern venue with a fabulous waterfront setting on the edge of Poole Harbour overlooking Holes Bay. Licensed for ceremonies, there’s a choice of attractive rooms with bay views. The ground- floor Waterfront Suite has direct access to the sea terrace right by the water’s edge; great for post-vows drinks. With the RNLI lifeboats moored on the pontoons it’s the perfect backdrop for standout photos. The suite can accommodate up to 200 ceremony guests, 150 for the wedding breakfast and an extra 50 for the evening celebration. For more intimate affairs, the Harbour View Suite provides a romantic setting and if you want to stay over, the venue has 60 harbour-view double bedrooms for guests plus there’s a complimentary wedding-night stay for the happy couple too. WE LOVE… that every £1 spent on weddings with RNLI College goes towards helping save lives at sea. www.emm ahurleyphotography.com REGIONAL VENUES 23