Your Hampshire and Dorset Wedding - Page number 25 - July/August 2021 (Issue 87)

PICTURE-PERFECT SETTINGS Stunning venues with glorious grounds AVINGTON PARK, Nr. WINCHESTER 01962 779 260 | www.avingtonpark.co.uk Wend your way through the wrought iron gateway, down the long avenue of lime trees to discover this historic stately home. Beautiful inside and out, with two conservatories flanking a pillared orangery, Avington dates back to the 10 th century and has a wonderfully grand feel to the interior. Surrounded by 150 acres of historic parkland, you will be spoilt for choice for your photos. Bordering the River Itchen the beautifully kept grounds have an abundance of wildlife, including majestic peacocks, providing a picturesque scene all year round. Inside, the King Charles Hall has hand-painted walls and ceiling, antique furniture and a roaring open fire in the winter months. There is a wealth of rooms licensed for ceremonies, including the opulent Versailles Ballroom on the first floor, which is a jewel in the crown. Full of grandeur with a magnificently painted ceiling, gold gilt plasterwork, vast mirrors and a gallery of original artwork depicting previous occupants, it provides a romantic backdrop for ceremonies, with up to 110 guests and has a lovely open outlook across the park. For the wedding reception the orangery is ideal. The versatile space can also be used for the evening bar, top table or displaying the wedding cake. The orangery can seat up to 200 guests and leads through to the library, adorned with books from across the centuries, a grand piano and wonderful views of the south lawn. The space can also be turned around later for the evening celebration, with room for dancing, entertainment and a band. WE LOVE… the living walls in the orangery, bringing the outside in with fragrant jasmine vines, lemon and orange trees. Images: www.nomadiccreatives.co.uk GLORIOUS GARDENS 25